Embarking on the journey back to college can be a transformative and empowering experience. Whether you’re pursuing higher education to advance your career, fulfill a lifelong dream, or simply explore new interests, returning to college is a testament to your resilience and determination.
Our online and hybrid education programs offer unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to balance your studies with work, family, and other responsibilities. You can engage with dynamic course materials, connect with a diverse community of learners, and receive support from dedicated instructors from the comfort of your own home.
As you head back to college, it’s crucial to think a few steps ahead and make a checklist of what needs to be done before you return. Here are some tasks to think about completing before you go back to school to earn your degree.
Set Goals and a Schedule
Balancing an education, career, family, social life, and other obligations can be challenging, so having a set schedule can help you manage your time better and feel more productive. As a new college student, setting a schedule can help keep you on track. Some tips include:
- Designate roughly two hours each day as a deep work session.
- Make a digital calendar.
- Include important deadlines.
- Make a to-do list, especially for busy days.
Setting goals can also be beneficial for a new or returning college student. With college offering endless opportunities, losing track of your end goal is easy. It’s important to set a clear goal, such as making the dean’s list, finding an internship, or landing a full-time gig after graduation. Establishing a set goal can help you stay grounded and focused toward achieving your desired result.
Apply for Financial Aid and Scholarship
There are multiple financial aid programs and scholarships available to students. First and foremost, you can apply for FAFSA for federal grants, loans, and work-study. With FAFSA supporting more than 13 million students with more than $120 million, make sure to apply before the set deadlines.
In addition to financial aid, scholarships are another way to earn financial support. There are various types of scholarships to apply for based on your academic performance, athletic ability, socioeconomic background, and demographic identity. You can easily find scholarships by checking out:
Obtain Technology and Materials
In today’s digital age, many programs are hybrid or entirely online. This makes it crucial to have access to the necessary technology and materials to succeed. Before classes begin, make sure you have materials like:
- A computer with a working charger.
- Headphones to eliminate distractions.
- Notetaking materials to jot down important information.
When taking online classes, stay seated in a quiet location with minimal distractions and put your electronics on do not disturb. It’s important to stay focused and not lose your groove when studying, especially as an online student.
Learn More About the Available Resources
Before classes begin, check out the resources your institution offers. At SDSU Global Campus, we provide resources to ensure all of our students have a successful college experience. Some of these resources include:
Heading back to college may seem daunting at first, but with the right support and a solid plan of action, you can make the most of your educational journey and reach your full academic potential.
