Need a little inspiration... how long did it take for you to get your bachelor's degree?

Question

I'm in need of a little inspiration, so here's my story:

I graduated in 2005 from high school, and didn't really plan to go straight into college. I was going to wait about a year to get back into school. In 2006, I became pregnant and gave birth to my son in 2007. I just recently got married this year, and I'm planning on going to back to school this semester. My husband supports me 100%.

I guess I need a little cheering up because I sometime feel like it will be a lot of work and years for me. I'm obviously going to be taking remedial math classes, and I won't be graduating in 4-5 years. I'll probably take 8 years to finish my degree if anything. I'm planning on getting a biology degree. I didn't want to go for business because I don't want to have an office job the rest of my life.

If anyone can give me their story of how long it took you and how you dealt with work, family, and school all at once, that would be great. :)

Answer 1

I'm a college professor and I see lots of non-traditional students, many of whom have families to care for and/or jobs.  It's tough, but in general they do better in my courses than traditional students because they have a sense of why they're there and some perspective and experience with time management.

Where you might experience some trouble is with lab work.  Because a lot of times you work in groups and need to complete some of the work outside of class.  It's difficult to get together with your schedule and a regular college student's schedule.  If you're lucky, there will be another person in you class with a similar circumstance and you can team up.

Also, don't be afraid if you really need accommodation for time (like taking your kid to the doctor) to ask your professor for it.  I frequently allow students who have legitimate reasons attend a different lab section when needed.

Answer 2

I'm going to finish mine in 4 years total, but I don't have a child or a spouse to consider.

You, of course, have quite a few more responsibilities so I wouldn't be surprised if it took much longer. However, I say go for it! It's very admirable that you're going through this effort despite all your responsibilities. It'll probably be hard but it will pay off if you can see it through - you're making a better future for you and your family.

I know my school offers daycare for students with children. It might not be something you want to do when your child is a baby but as they get older it may be something you want to consider in order to take some stress off yourself.

Answer 3

Four years.  I went to college right after high school.