After Reading Three Challenges Facing Adults Going Back To S

After Reading Three Challenges Facing Adults Going Back To School A

After reading "Three Challenges Facing Adults Going Back to School," answer the following: Of the three challenges that Viana mentions, which one do you relate to the most? Do you believe all three are a challenge for you personally? Explain. According to the Rutgers study, “62% think they will need more formal education to be successful in their chosen careers.” Do you believe this is true for you? How might you address this as you move toward your future career?

Paper For Above instruction

Returning to school as an adult presents numerous challenges, as outlined by Viana in her article "Three Challenges Facing Adults Going Back to School." These challenges include balancing family responsibilities, managing financial constraints, and overcoming the psychological barriers such as fear of failure or feeling out of place among younger students. Personally, I find balancing family responsibilities to be the most relatable challenge because I have a young family that depends on me, making it difficult to allocate time for study and learning activities. Managing family, work, and education demands meticulous planning and support from both my family and my employer to succeed.

While I acknowledge that financial constraints and psychological barriers are also significant, the challenge of balancing familial obligations resonates the most with my experience. Many adult learners experience the stress of juggling multiple roles, which can affect their academic performance and overall well-being. For instance, the financial challenge relates to the need for funding education through loans, savings, or additional employment, which can add pressure and distract from studies. The psychological barriers, including self-doubt and fear of inadequacy, are equally critical, often hindering motivation and persistence.

The Rutgers study's statistic that “62% think they will need more formal education to be successful in their chosen careers” reflects an increasing recognition of the importance of continuous learning in today’s competitive job market. I believe this is true for me as well. In an era characterized by rapid technological advances and evolving industry standards, staying relevant requires ongoing education and skill development. For example, in my field of work, acquiring additional certifications or advanced degrees could enhance my qualifications and employability, enabling me to adapt to changing job requirements.

Addressing the need for further education as I plan my future career involves several strategies. Firstly, I intend to set specific, realistic educational goals aligned with my career objectives. Enrolling in relevant courses, whether part-time or through online learning platforms, will help me acquire necessary skills without disrupting my current responsibilities. Additionally, I plan to seek employer support through tuition reimbursement programs and flexible work arrangements, which can alleviate the financial burden and time pressures associated with further study.

Moreover, I recognize the importance of building a strong support network, including mentors and peers who can provide guidance and encouragement throughout my educational journey. Developing effective time management skills is essential to balance study, work, and family commitments. Finally, cultivating a growth mindset will help me remain resilient in the face of challenges and setbacks, viewing them as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles.

In conclusion, returning to school as an adult involves confronting and overcoming several challenges, particularly balancing family responsibilities. Recognizing the importance of ongoing education for career success motivates me to pursue continued learning actively. By setting clear goals, leveraging available resources, and fostering a positive attitude toward education, I believe I can navigate these challenges successfully and achieve my professional aspirations.

References

  • Viana, M. (Year). Three Challenges Facing Adults Going Back to School. Publisher.
  • Rutgers University. (Year). Study on Adult Education and Career Success. Retrieved from www.rutgers.edu
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