What Made You Go Back?
By: Matthew McLean
The pursuit of higher education represents an exciting journey into the next chapter in our lives. The experience is special and unique for each of us. For a variety of reasons, we have all made the same decision: to seek out higher education at California Lutheran University as adults, in many cases a number of years after entering the workforce. We each have a story to tell about this decision and the factors that shaped it.
Many of us have recently updated our dreams, aspirations and goals, resulting in a need for new knowledge. Some of us may be re-entering the workforce after the kids have left home or as a result of a change in life circumstance and we find ourselves needing new skills to enter a rewarding field. Perhaps a layoff or job loss inspired you to seek out something better? Or maybe you just felt it was time for a change, a new direction.
Most of us, this author included, decided to go back to school as an adult as a result of many factors. Decades of regret about never getting that college degree, a desire for a more meaningful career combined with a layoff from the recently decimated financial industry resulted in the perfect storm, pushing me to seek out a better life with more meaning and stability. A key factor in my decision to enroll in the Psychology program at California Lutheran University was a strong desire to contribute something worthwhile to society, to make a difference in the lives of others–to help people. My goal is to become a MFC (Marriage and Family Counselor) helping people navigate the often rocky road of life. Cal Lutheran’s ADEP psychology program is how I am going to get there.
What was the catalyst that made you want to change your life? What factors influenced your decision to go back to school as an adult? Did you go back because a degree would help you get a better job? Perhaps you have developed an interest in a specific field and this path is part of pursuing that interest?
We want to hear from you, and so do your fellow students. We all have a story to tell. Share your inspirations and goals with other California Lutheran University ADEP students just like yourself in the comments area below.
In addition to welcoming you to California Lutheran University, I would like to congratulate each and every one of you for having the courage to take the leap and make big changes in your life. These are exciting times!
