We’ve all heard it. These days, to get ahead in life, no…actually just to stay on par and get by, it seems it’s more and more important to get that college-level degree. As your “golden ticket” to securing interviews and launching a career, earning a college degree is what should be near the top of one’s list, along of course, with maintaining sobriety. But just how can you get back into the classroom?
School can be very demanding especially if you have to work to pay your tuition or bills while in school. Just like a successful outcome in addiction recovery, you need to be prepared for the demands that school will place on your time and the stress of completing the requirements. It’s important to have developed appropriate coping skills and have a support system of family and friends to rely on when you are feeling overwhelmed.
The benefits of going back to school are that it will increase your sense of purpose in life, raise your self-esteem and build confidence. To reap the benefits, be sure your goals are realistic. To attempt to get a degree in advanced mathematics when you were never good at math is setting yourself up for failure.
Some Tips for Going Back to School
The GED:
If you did not complete high school, you will need to pass the General Educational Development (GED) exam.
- The requirements for the exam differ according to which state you live in.
- The test covers five areas: writing, math, social studies, science and reading
- You can prepare for the test by getting a GED preparation book, looking for resources online or taking a class at a local community college.
- Go to the website Your GED which will locate GED testing facilities near you.
College:
If you are considering going to college, you have many options to choose from, including community colleges, state colleges and universities, and private colleges and universities. You may have to take the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) if you didn’t take it in high school.
Financial Aid:
You may qualify for grants or scholarships (which do not have to be paid back) or loans (which do have to be paid back) to help with the cost of college. This website provides information on grants and scholarships.
- If you are interested in a trade school, contact the school you are interested in and ask about financial aid. Most schools have some form of financial aid available.
- If you have a disability (mental health disorders and addiction can qualify you as having a disability), contact your state’s Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR). If you qualify, OVR may offer you financial assistance for college or a trade school.
You Have Choices:
It’s important to know that you have many options if you decide that you want to go back to school and there are many government programs available to help with the financial costs of school. Going back to school can help you get a better job and make you feel like you have accomplished something great. It may mean a lot of work, but it is well worth what you put into it. Remember, getting and staying sober requires hard work, goal-setting, and dedication. Once you choose sobriety on a daily basis, your goals become attainable. To this end, what better path could you choose than to set goals to maintain sobriety and further your education, which in turn, enable you to earn your degree, and begin a career that allows you to live a healthy and financially stable lifestyle!
449 Recovery is Here to Help:
449 Recovery is a drug and alcohol treatment and rehabilitation center helping people overcome their fears and assisting families to deal with a loved one’s challenges. Through evidence-based treatment plans, we are the light at the end of the tunnel and strive to provide hope and comfort. The nightmare can end. You can free yourself from the bondage of addiction and get your life back. Contact us today for that new you, by calling 855.435.7449.