Starting School Jan 2010, after 2 years of work!!

[DaveLRN12]

Hello all:

I'm a newly accepted student. I just spent the last 2 years retaking all of my science pre-req's because of them being over 10 years old. I left school in '93 to help my brother raise his children and I never went back for personal reasons. My fiance' has been great support in my 2nd chance, and will be the sole financial support. I just wanted to know how many men are in this situation now (in school and only 1 income), and how has it been with the current state with of the ecomony? I know money will be tight and I can rely on some weekend work, but the instructors suggest we not work if possible because of the time needed for studying, clinicals, etc.

Any suggestions?

Thanks!

Dave

[K.P.A.]

I'm an older guy in an accelerated program. I'm spending half the time they said I'd need and still make A(low) grades. One of my classmates is working 20 hours per week and has young kids and wife. He's a bit frazzeled but doing OK grade wise. He's in mid 30's and has a strong science background, as do I. Some of the 20 something 'kids' are really struggling though. The greatest impact on my time has been from the courses with written assignments. I struggle to write. If not for the writing, I'd be able to get by with 10-15 hours/week outside the classroom.

If you're organized and have been understanding and retaining the pre-req work (not memorizng) you'll do fine in a regular program with a job, especially if it's a job that allows you time to think about things unrelated to the job. If you spend a lot of time commuting, record all lectures and listen in the car. I would not recommend accelerated with a job unless the job has a flexible schedule.

KPA