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cjustice
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Posted: Tue May 25th, 2010 07:25 pm | 1st Post |
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I started college in my mid 30s. I went on to earn my BA, MPA and complete my Doctoral course work. Yep, so far I have joined the ranks of the ABD. I wanted to tell you that the journey has certainly been worth it.
So many people are dreaming about finishing their degree. There is so much life that gets in the way of what seems like a dream, an extra, a personal goal. The truth is, in our society, a college degree is not icing on the cake, its not something you do just for yourself. The truth is, a college degree is absolutely necessary. Even if you are more than half-way through you life - you are missing out.
The first thing I learned while completing my education (well, I guess the ABD part means I am still mid-stream) is that my life experience was extraordinarily valuable. As I learned about the various theories and models developed in Western Society, I realized I was a good observer and theorist. Also, by looking at what academics had discovered about what I knew from experience, I was able to label stuff, explore it further and hone my own intellectual skills. You don’t know how valuable what you know is!
Secondly, doors opened that I did not know existed. Yes, some of these were career opportunities; some business; but many were personal. The intellectual exercise of exploring that which you know and that which you don’t know helps you to make connections - to see alternative and hidden possibilities. The process of obtaining a college degree will open doors you don’t even know about. Notice that I said the process, going to school, learning, navigating the system. The piece of paper is the recognition of the journey - not the journey.
Third, you will see threats more clearly. Threats to you, your family, your business. We live in an information driven society. A college degree helps you more cleanly and clearly see threats and alternatives. That’s right - your personal, financial and family safety is enhanced by the journey.
Lastly, I certainly became more tolerant of other views. And, I was able to reformulate my own values and defend them. While you are exposed to other views and some of those views are counter to what you believe, it is the exploration of the other that reinforces your ability to defend your own values - seriously, nothing like understanding you enemy. Of course, while I am more tolerant, I am not as diplomatic as I would like to be - but, then again, an education can’t change your genetics.
Get off the couch, back away from the mouse and find a school. I have included a link to a search engine that can take you through over 6000 brick and mortar as well as online college programs - lots of subjects, certificates, modes of learning.
Good luck!
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.)
http://www.look4school.com
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Shaun
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Posted: Wed May 26th, 2010 09:44 am | 2nd Post |
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I'm currently in my mid to late 30s and am currently obtaining my BS in Criminal Justice. I started and stopped so many times that it's embarrassing. Eventhough I've wanted to do this for so long many times I ask myself, am I doing the right thing or aren't you to old to be starting a career in criminal justice? I also want to go on and get my Masters and Doctorate as well. Reading your story is such an inspiration to me.
Thanks.
I see that you're currently a Lieutenant. When you started college were you already employed in the criminal justice field or did you have to start in an entry level position?
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cjustice
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Posted: Wed May 26th, 2010 01:09 pm | 3rd Post |
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| Greetings - I am glad you got something from my thoughts - I was a sergeant at the time I went back to school.
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Abigail Flores
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Posted: Mon Sep 27th, 2010 01:25 pm | 4th Post |
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From your story, I got a lot of inspiration regarding the college degree. It is necessary for everyone. A college degree is certification of completion of state or federal educational requirement. The degree informs the public that you adequate with the necessary requirements to be considered as a graduate of one of the various degree levels.
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Ethan Bailey
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Posted: Fri Oct 1st, 2010 11:34 am | 5th Post |
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According to me, one reason for earning a college degree is that it might give you a leg up on your competition. If an employer is deciding between two applicants, then the one with a college degree is looked upon more favorably. A college degree demonstrates interest in a chosen field, knowledge and experience.
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