Your spouse has left for active duty and you’re left experiencing a lot of different emotions. Some of those feelings may be in regards to how you plan to take care of yourself or how you plan to fill your time, and thus you’ve decided to continue with your education. The only potential problem may be that you’re unsure of where to start or how to go about getting your degree. Below is a list of suggestions that can help you get started.
Consider Online Learning
Taking classes while trying to manage a household by yourself can be difficult. It’s not that online classes are easier than traditional in-person courses, but virtual learning does offer a more flexible schedule, especially for people who work or take care of their family full-time. For example, you may take asynchronous classes through a program of online colleges for military spouses. By doing so, you can complete the coursework at a time and pace that works for you. You could also enroll in online synchronous courses, which still help with time management since you do not need to commute to the school.
Look for Specific Programs
Research educational programs that are specifically designed for the spouses of military personnel. One benefit of such a program is that you could get a discount on the classes or a scholarship toward your education. Another advantage is that you can bond with other individuals who understand at least some of what you’re going through or what your situation is like. Being a member of a cohort is empowering, especially when you have these shared experiences.
Learn What to Prioritize
Taking on some classes is a smart way to work toward your own goals and put your skills to use. Still, recognize that you’re taking on an additional task and will need to prioritize. Only you can decide what items on the to-do list are the most important. Take some pressure off of yourself. You don’t always need to get the highest grade in the class. Concentrate on bolstering your knowledge instead of competing with other students.
Pursue Your Passion
Choose a field that you truly love and are interested in. In fact, enrolling in classes may be a way for you to escape some of the stress factors present in your life. Therefore, make sure you are genuinely interested in the subject matter. Also, keep in mind that if you start to take classes and find that your interests lie elsewhere, consider pursuing a new path.
During the time that your spouse is on active duty, you may be wondering what you should and can do back at home. No matter what you decide though, now is the perfect time to figure it out. One option is taking classes to earn your degree. Even if you’re at a stage in your life right now that includes other responsibilities, earning that degree is still possible.
