Back to school! Is it in YOUR future?

What's up HWISS?

Yea -- I know it's been a while, but life happens, lol. No offense -- it's just that I began a lot of new chapters in my life ranging from personal and social lifestyles, as well as professional endeavors.

Most notably, I am now a graduate student at Baruch College of the City University of New York. I am majoring in higher education administration with a focus on community colleges.

The school itself is "aight." It's definitely not my alma mater: The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (Go Tar Heels!)

I decided to go back to school because I had a recent change in my career and I wanted to remain competitive in the job market.

As a person who has attended and worked at a community college, I can definitely call myself an advocate of these remarkable institutions of higher learning. I am interested in learning about how the colleges are operated and how they serve the unique communities in which they are located. Community colleges have become a primary choice for millions of students, whether it's to get a start on their education, change careers, or finish what they started. I think I'm in the right spot.

Here's Where I Stand...

Going to or back to school is a big decision. With the current state of the economy, you must ask yourself, "Do I possess the education and experience to be competitive?" If your answer is "no," then you might want to consider your educational options. At this point, nobody is safe in the job market.

Whether it's a certificate, undergraduate or graduate degree, millions of Americans are going to school to keep their jobs or gain an edge on the competition.

Still...

Going to school is easier said than done. One major issue people have with pursuing education is the costs. Are you eligible for financial aid? Scholarships? Loans? Does your job or department of unemployment pay your tuition? These are all options that must be considered before making such an important decision (on top of other personal and/or professional obligations).

The Bottom Line...

The job market will continue to be a competition for people across the country, regardless of their chosen industry or trade. My question to you is: How will YOU remain in demand?