Yesterday I made a decision. It was a very difficult decision to make, for me. I have decided to drop out – no, to put college on hold - for now. I did not discuss this decision with anyone other than myself. Even though I know it is for the best, I still cannot stop thinking about how much of a mistake it is. I may return during the winter term, or I may just weigh my options and see about transferring to a college closer to home.
What made me make this decision, you ask? Well, mainly it is about time, or the lack there of for actually putting forth the dedicated time necessary to achieve the satisfactory that I demand of myself. You see, since the wife and I have been down to one vehicle, I have been working overtime to, hopefully, raise the necessary funds to purchase a decent, dependable, second vehicle. Couple that with the amount of time required for the studies for two online classes. I have realized that it is just not possible for this term.
One of my main arguments, with myself, for making the decision that I have is the fact that I already earned my Associates. I mean, really, do I really need my Bachelors in order to be happy? In order to keep, or land a better career? Or position within the company that I currently work for? For all of those questions, the answer is a resounding NO!
I have already accomplished more than what anyone ever thought that I would. After being a High School drop-out, the only one in my family, to being the first child my parents bore to earn a college degree. Marrying young, having three children young, and keeping this family together for 13 years (after many, many trials that would have torn other families apart). To providing for said family to the best of my abilities; keeping a roof over our heads, food on the table, clothes on our backs, and even providing luxuries that definitely are not necessary.
Yes, I agree that a Bachelor degree would be an even greater accomplishment. However, I also feel that there are more important things for me to take care of right now (things that I cannot, should not, and will not share), things that will make it even more difficult for me to concentrate on the work needing to be done, this term.
No, I am not ruling out the completion of my degree in the future. All I am doing is putting it all on hold, for now. Maybe I will take the time to pay down some of the student loans that have accumulated over the past three years. Maybe I will research the local colleges to see what they actually have to offer me, and what classes will be allowed to transfer from my current learning institution. Or maybe, I may decided that having just the Associate degree is enough.
Who knows that the future holds?
Until next time, my friends…
Filed under: Random, Sunday | Tagged: Children, family, life, school
On the positive side, you are leaving the option to return to your studies at a more convenient — and less stressed — time open. I wish you well and will keep good thoughts that things will work out okay for you.
Yes, you are correct, I am leaving that option open. I thank you for your well wishes.
No one said that college had to be completed in a specific amount of time. It took me three years to get my associate and then I worked for five years then went back to get my bachelors which took me another four years. Oh did I mention that I was in my thirties when I started this trip down college road. Hang in there son you have plenty of time to finish what you started if you want to. Sometimes there are other things in life that have to come first and only you know what is best for you and your family. Still proud of what you have done and will support you with what ever you decide to do, after all you are an adult and you can make your own decisions. Love ya
There is only so much we can do in this one life. If your future doesn’t hang on a better degree, then you’ve gotta put your efforts where they are most needed. It’s not a mistake, it’s a mature acceptance of your limitations and priorities. <3