Education sets you free
Tied to her dead end, not going to any job, a struggling mother of three enrolls in an online university, determined to make a better life for herself and her children. Soon, his perspective is much brighter and there is a ray of light at the end of his previously gloomy tunnel. There was no visit from a fairy godmother, no windfall lottery winnings, simply the knowledge that education could and would improve things in a matter of time.
Education is the key to freedom for many people; In this tough economy, every little advantage can make a difference in the job market. Consider this: a college education can provide you with a job that pays much more than the job that will earn you a high school diploma. If you were an employer looking for two fairly equal candidates for a single position, would you choose the college graduate over the undergraduate? Of course I wouldn’t, I would take that extra diploma and pray that the degree is in something useful.
As the world increasingly relies on technology and accelerates, the competition for jobs will become even fiercer. Soon there will be only the humblest jobs for those who will not go to university, computer programming training will be almost mandatory.
But education can mean more than just a better job and a higher salary; It can mean increased self-esteem and the satisfaction of being able to accomplish whatever you set your mind to. No matter when you go back to school or what you study, your brain wants to learn new things all the time. Keeping your mind fit and active is just as important as keeping your body healthy. Take a painting class, a cooking class, learn a new language. If you’re retired, take the wild class you were afraid to take while busy working. If you’re still employed, consider a weekend class at a community college in something unrelated to your job; make it fun to relax. You’ll learn new things, meet new people, and discover how free education can make you feel.
In most cases, you can apply for grants to help pay for your educational goals, and some employers will even refund some or all of your tuition if it’s work-related. (Check with your Human Resources representative first.)
Of course, as with any new plan or idea, there may be opposition, but don’t let anyone dissuade you from your goals. If your plan is a 17th century degree in English Literature, go ahead and earn that degree! People are always afraid of new things, but that shouldn’t stop you in any way. There should be no lock on you, your age, your finances, or your time. If you want something strong enough, you will find a way to make things happen. Education is the key to freedom, so set yourself free, whatever the cost. Oh, what about that feisty mother of three? That would be me.