Going back to school at 40

by M. Richard Manganaro
(West Palm Beach, Florida)

Having a GED and deciding to go back to school was a decision I had put off for many years. What helped me was to break it down into manageable and realistic steps of achievement. I asked myself many questions and focused on an obtainable vision.

I would start on the day I stated to others I would..this made me commit to my word. I would take one course to begin and put all my effort into it..this gave me the start to my engine.

I would dedicate myself to perfection, a 4.0 GPA..while tough on myself it meant I wasn't going to waste my time and money just getting by..it helped me set high standards in all areas of my life including my job.

I would go to school year round instead of taking a break which might give me too much idle time to find excuses not to continue. I would applaud all my efforts each step of the way..even when I wasn't perfect I reminded myself that I had given it my best and that was all I could ask.

With that formula, I completed my Associates degree in 2 years with a 3.59 GPA. I also served as President of my school's International Honor Society at ages 41 and 42. I then transferred to a four year school with an external degree program. I did what worked for me. I choose a school where I knew I could continue to work full time and still complete my studies.

The result was completing my Bachelors degree in 2 1/2 years with a 3.67 GPA and being given early admission into the Masters program. I completed one course.

I am now going back to school ten years later to finish my Masters. I am going to study Communications because I want to invest this time and money studying something I love. I love writing and know I can do this for any years to come. I am not rushing my schooling. I am going to enjoy this ride at this time in my life because I know I will get there eventually, one course at a time.