Getting a Diploma — Is It Worth It?
Have you recently lost your job and thought…what’s my next move? Is getting an education going to help me get back in the workforce? Why is now the right time?
Take me for example
I found myself asking those same questions after I was laid off because of COVID. I had spent 20 years of my life in the thriving Hotel industry that now was struggling. Looking back, I realized that even though I had the right skills to excel in my job, I needed to learn new skills to survive in this new economy. I had some hard decisions to make.
I remember back a few years ago when I worked in the Media Relations department at the Royal Ontario Museum. Although I didn’t go down the path of becoming a Public Relations Manager, I knew I wanted to work in the communications sector. Besides…the ideas floating in my head had to go somewhere. But who would listen and how would I reach them? That's when I decided to take a Social Media certification course at a local College. I’m loving what I’m learning and know it will give me the skills I’ll need to move into that industry. Although I had most things figured out, I still had some doubts…
Fear and doubt.
After speaking to various people, I noticed a common trend: Fear of the unknown. Is this diploma or certification course going to get me where I want to go? Am I too old to learn a new skill? Everyone has fears to overcome at any given point in their life. I’ve had my share. I started to realize that to face my fears head on. Otherwise, how would I know if I could overcome them? At that point, I decided it was to time to leave the past behind and focus on my future and the possibilities were endless!
“Thinking will not overcome fear, but action will.” — W. Clement Stone.
Have a clear goal
The first step is to have a clear goal. Of course, this can be different for each person. Yours may be to learn skills that will get you a high paying job. Some want a career that will give them a sense of worth. With a changing economy, comes demand in certain sectors. Find out what those are. Can you see yourself in that career?
Think about what you are passionate about. You may have a hidden talent somewhere inside of you. Uncovering what that is can be a daunting task for some. Don’t worry if you are not sure. Check out 10 Ways To Identify Your Talents And Utilize Them. Once the path is a little clearer, it’s time to figure out how much time you want to dedicate furthering your education.
Time
Is your goal to work in the medical or business field? Don’t want to spend 4 years to get a degree? Consider diploma courses that you can complete in less than a year. If upgrading your skills is going to get your foot in the door, then you may want to take part time online certification courses. Check out your local Colleges and Universities. Most offer both options. The next step is how to manage the cost of education.
Funding
For many who have lost their jobs, money can be tight. There are a few options to look at for funding your education. Check out what educational funding is provided through your province. If you qualify, this can help you with paying for your diploma! Keep in mind though, that these funding programs cover ‘full-time’ education. Most Colleges and Universities also offer monthly payment options. So, what can we get out of all of this?
Benefits
There are benefits to furthering your education, especially if you are transitioning into a different industry. “You will stand out not only because of your additional qualifications, but employers will recognize that you have the determination to take on a challenge — and succeed.” Western Governors University. Let’s face it, with a more competitive marketplace, it’s important to increase your visibility.
In the end, ask yourself these three questions: ‘What do I want out of life?’ ‘Am I ready to overcome my fears?’ ‘Will furthering my education help me achieve my goals?’ Don’t let fear stop you from taking the first step. You’d be surprised at what you can accomplish. If I could do it, so can you!
What kinds of things are holding you back from furthering your education?
How have you benefited from going back to school?
What type of online learning has worked for you?
I’m Patty Cado, who faces life challenges one step at a time. Join me in exploring the unexpected and discover how you can change the direction of your life and business. @cadopatty
