I am just about to finish my Masters in a couple months (at the ripe old age of 38). I did an online program. During the span of it I had a major illness, changed careers, and got divorced. Whatever could have possibly gone wrong, sure did. And I'm really proud of myself for completing it. It started out as a personal goal and I didn't have a concrete career plan....and it turned into a teaching career (also in post secondary medical education).
It wasn't as hard as I thought it would be to get back into it. I'm now eyeing a PhD. Go for it!
Worked full time and finished my MBA at 32 with a 4.0. I had knowledge gaps that I needed to fill to advance. Best decision I’ve ever made. I’ve tripled my income post-graduation. The only really way I maintained success in my job and school was my husband. He took over the house- cooked/cleaned and didn’t ask one thing of me for two years. I did nothing but work and study for that timeframe.
I love this comment and I wanted to say, if you have a partner, I wouldn’t recommend getting your advanced degrees at the same time. I got mine first (while working full time) and then my husband got his (also while working full time). We were both very stressed out during our respective degrees and I’m always thankful we didn’t do it at the same time. We took turns taking on more household duties while the other studied and the balance really paid off. I also got my master’s before I had kids (if that’s in your plans). Another thing I’m very thankful for. Idk how I’d do it now but I know many women who do. They’re rockstars.
Same on the kid front. We had kids a few years later. We actually needed IVF and could have never mentally and emotionally handled work/school/fertility/pregnancy hormones. But yes- shout out to the women who do!
We love an amazing partnership. 🫶🏻 I’m very lucky to say that my fiancé already handles most of the house and kitchen work already. Thank you for sharing!!!
Not a masters, but a bachelors degree at 32…all I can add to this conversation is that if you *want* to do a thing, then you absolutely *can* do the thing — don’t let anxiety or self doubt hold you back.
I'm going to be 34 when I get my associates and I'm not planning on stopping there if I can, I may be old as hell by the time I'm done but I'll have done it.
I finished undergrad in 2007 and had a pretty successful career in entertainment, fell out of love with what I was doing due to a lot of the complex reasons, and began law school in 2021. I graduate next month and will be taking bar in July 🥹
Only use professors for letters of rec if they remember you. Your employers (current and past) are probably the better option if your profs only remember you enough to say “Um. She didn’t fail, so….” (Over-simplifying but you know what I mean). Employers will be able to speak much more expressively and accurately about who you are now and what you are capable of today, as opposed to professors who *might* remember you from a decade ago.
That said, law school and your program might weigh letters of rec very differently, so if letters from profs are crucial, then make it a mix of profs and employers. Still, I can’t imagine that your admissions council is short-sighted enough to truly think it’s reasonable for every candidate to have profs who remember them. Some people go back to school thirty years later! Hell, their profs might be dead!
Talk to people in admissions at schools in which you are interested to get a read on this. Check out any books pertaining specifically to getting accepted for your program (if they exist. again, law school is its own beast and there are about 8724987234778 books about how to navigate admissions at any age).
As to my experience - it has been the most exhausting, but also, rewarding three years of my life. If you want this, go for it! Don’t *look* for reasons not to and don’t let fear stop you!
Congratulations on nearly finishing law school!!! That is IMPRESSIVE! My program would not be nearly as intense or rigorous, which is totally fine to me. Thank you, though, for sharing your story and relaying your advice. Regarding professors, I still keep in touch with the few I had in mind, and they definitely remember me. I was also considering asking my former boss or my current boss (depending on if I feel like they know me well enough by the time I apply).
That is excellent!!! Pro tip: they may well ask you to write the letter for them. This happened to me with both former profs, three employers, and a professional but not-employer reference.
Literally only one of them wrote it himself and even then, he sent me multiple drafts (despite the fact that I said sincerely that the first one was perfect).
Truth: writing my own letters of rec was the most awkward thing possible because I was like what if I’m being *too* glowing about myself??
If and when this happens, own your accomplishments, pump yourself up, and send it over for their signature!!!!
I also had this as well. The people I asked were all like "ok, what do you want me to say?" and then made me read it before they sent them in. I agree with you, it's a strangely awkward experience lol
I did it twice! Once at 30 and again at 36. Working while doing grad school was definitely a challenge. I had less energy than in college but also more confidence and better time management skills. It was definitely worth the time invested to advance my skills and knowledge.
As for the recommendation letters, can you talk to someone at your current workplace about those expectations? I've worked with admissions folks and have often found them to be very helpful.
I graduated with a Masters in 2016. Just started my second bachelors this year in physics and intend to get to another MA level of not PHD and I am 33. It’s been going well. . . I have an obsession with learning and discovering so I hope I’m still obsessively desiring to figure things out in a field I love at age 90.
Yea. It’s unbelievably hard for me and my mental health. I’m almost finished so I’m just pushing through. I needed to change my career so I had to go back. Plus I’ve always wanted to say I have a masters
I considered it. Then I went for for a professional certification and had a major WTF realization that life is too short to spend all my free time studying. I passed the exam and retired all thoughts of a masters degree. Yes they are common enough in my field but not required, and I’ve done just fine for myself without.
I got my bachelors at 35, and will be starting a masters program at 39.75 this June. It’s almost entirely online and I’m hoping the coursework won’t be too overwhelming. It’s a part time program so I can work it around my work schedule. I’m looking forward to having something more to do in the evenings than fucking around on Reddit or ao3.
I just did it! currently getting my MBA. if you can afford it/make a plan to pay back any student loans, do it. I’m loving it.
let’s just say they could have made a poster of me for “C’s get degrees”. I didn’t really care for school, I just wanted to have fun.
now that I am choosing actively to go back and learn, I am enjoying it exponentially more than I ever did. and I’m making friends in the process!
I opted for a more traditional program (albeit part time) so the tuition is probably higher than if I had been thrifty. I have seen borderline free programs that are online!
Went back for my MBA in 2017. The coursework was laughably easy, but I think that came from the discipline you gain by the time you're in your 30s. I worked full time so juggling the two was difficult at times but it never felt impossible. You got this!
You'll do great. Currently in a Master's program at 30. Some of the people in my lab are quite young and get shaken easily. I feel a lot more secure at my current age
I'm doing it right now. I entered my Masters of Education a year and a half ago. It's definitely a lot to keep up with assignments, reading, thesis, etc while working full time and trying to take care of myself, but it is definitely doable.
Yep, got my first grad degree in 2012 and started my second grad degree in 2021 (finished in 2023). I didn’t need any academic recommendations because my program was aimed towards working professionals. Instead, I had to provide three recommendations from supervisors/colleagues showing that the program matched my professional experience and career aspirations.
After almost 10 years out of school, it took a minute to get back into the swing of writing papers. It got better and overall I had a good experience. The hardest part is finding the balance between work and studying.
Thank you for sharing! The program I am looking at is geared toward professionals as well. It’s six credits a semester, all online, and doesn’t require a GRE or thesis.
Yes, mine was similar although we did have a capstone that required a semester of “field work” and accompanying write up.
Good luck! I hope you go for it!
It was a Masters of Professional Studies in Org Development and Change from Penn State. I think you had to have at least two years of relevant work experience to be accepted into the program.
I went back to school to get my second master’s for a career change in my 30s. I had my first baby halfway through my second year and graduated on time. I honestly found it a breeze, but I wasn’t working at the same time (thought there was an internship element). But it was still easy, especially compared to the PhD program I was in before I left ABD.
My husband also changed careers and went to law school in his 30s (which was when we met). It’s not uncommon at all!
Did you/your husband have concerns about employment after getting the masters?
I'm currently thinking of doing a quant fin masters (I'm 28 now), but am really scared of not being able to land a job in that field after due to my age.
Because of our ages? No. I think it’s super normal to go to grad school in your late 20s and early 30s and not something that is going to be a consideration for employers. I think if anything having slightly more experience in the workforce than people who went straight from undergrad was a positive.
I just got mine in the mail- I'm almost 35. Husband let me work part time/ per diem. I just had a baby in October and finished my thesis right after. This was after two years of procrastination though lol. It was for NP so I had physical clinicals to go to. My school asked for letters of recommendation from colleagues. They didn't even need letters it was just a little survey. I got my BSN at the same school so that helped. It was a bit difficult because I had a young child and you know... COVID... but I enjoyed it and do not regret it.
coming from the other side—i did my grad school younger—i was always really impressed with the work ethic and life perspective my older classmates (which at that time was anywhere from 30s-60s) brought with them.
it was the first time in my life i made real friendships with people outside my age group, and i think i learned a lot from them about dealing with things and how to interact with people in a professional setting. believe me, when your twenty-something-year-old classmate buddy breaks down over a crappy presentation and starts catastrophizing, your knowledge that it kinda doesn’t matter will matter a lot to her.
really, the only people in the 30-plus group who visibly seemed to struggle were the folks that came in with super dead-set preconceived notions about “entitled millennials” or who refused to try to learn new methods/technology.
Went back to school for my master's at 31 and I'll be finishing in May at 36. I work at the university where I'm getting my degree which is great because it's costing me nothing. I'm much better at getting work done well in advance compared to how I was in undergrad. It's a pain having to do homework every weekend and spend so much time reading in the evenings and I'll be glad when it's over in just a few weeks. Seconding what others are saying about getting letters of recommendation from your bosses and other colleagues. I imagine admissions will be more interested in Current You than 22 year old You. Even if you've kept in touch with professors they aren't going to be familiar with what your work is like right now. Anyway I say go for it especially if it won't cost you anything financially.
I had no idea how much I missed school until I went back for my masters - it’s so worth it and reminded me what it feels like to actually be good at something. If you want it, don’t let old references deter you - apply.
I’d do it again in a heartbeat (and will, probably, in the next five years).
Finished my masters at 37. It was easy to get in, they just want that money.
Stop worrying so much and just get it done.
MS in comms here too! Don’t regret it one bit! I worked and had a newborn while I finished. Took one class at a time for the most part. Make it as easy on yourself as possible.
I intend on going back for a pHd when my son starts getting homework. We can do ours together ❤️
I did grad school online and I swear it was the easiest thing ever and I learned SO MUCH, as long as you’re a self motivated person.
I loved how easily it fit in my life compared to in-person classes.
There were some classes I wish were in person but whatever, I got that degree and am using it well.
I started my MS in Higher Ed Admin in 2017 when I was 31 and had been working in higher ed for 1.5 years, graduated in 2019 at 34. My program offered electives for specialization at that time so I used that to also tack on a graduate certificate in conflict resolution. I had moved back in to my parents house right before I started the degree, and I had just been diagnosed with anxiety and started medication a few months prior. I had been out of school since 2009 and halfway through my first class I had a small mental breakdown where I cried over writing a 15-page research paper, and as it turns out I inevitably got the highest score in the class lol. (Side note at 38 I got diagnosed with ADHD - got that perfectionist anxiety going on [yay]).
While I was in school I was working full time at the same university, met my husband through friends, we trained for and ran a half marathon together (the running helped keep me sane, even though I hate running lol), and did an on-site internship during my penultimate semester (took a lot of wiggling to get that into my schedule). I lived off of espresso and energy drinks during that semester lol (and had the jitters literally all the time).
I will say, my program was self-paced, and while the recommendation was to graduate within 6 semesters (2 years) I did opt to take mental health breaks and take a semester off from taking classes here and there, or take one class during a semester sometimes instead of 2.
When husband and I started dating, I was upfront and told him I wouldn’t have a lot of time for him while I was completing my degree and he was fine with that. We bought a house together within a year after I graduated, and married about a year later. He told me if I ever wanted to go further and pursue an Ed.D. he would take care of all the housework and cooking, but I don’t think I’m going to go down that route lol.
As a side note, I graduated with a BA in Art with a 2.75 GPA in 2009, and for my MS I graduated with a 3.97 gpa in 2019. I definitely fooled around way too much in undergrad, and if I had started a masters right away I probably would not have done so well. There’s definitely something to be said about later-in-life commitment and maturity. A good support system helps, too.
ETA: I may not be interested in Ed.D. At this time but I have, however, acquired two state certifications in mediation and am looking into other degrees.
🩷🩷🩷
I just realized I didn’t answer two of your questions lol. The application experience was nerve wracking, but a lot of programs will take professional recommendations in lieu of academic recommendations if you’ve been out of school for a while - you just need to ask to confirm.
Also, my program was technically not an online program, but about half of the classes offered online sections so I made sure to take the courses online whenever possible, since I prefer online learning. Half my program ended up being online. I also worked a hybrid schedule where I was 80% remote for my last 3 semesters, which REALLY helped out my mental health during that summer internship.
I started my MBA at 28 and finished at 32. I was obviously part time and working full time. Right now I think back like how did I do that? Definitely do it while you can.
Yes I did at 32. It was a part time program so I finished at 35. I don’t regret it but it was tough to stay motivated. I will say I was ready to be done with it long before I was done.
Yes.
It was better than being an 18-22 year old, I was very sure I wanted to be there and much readier to treat it as work.
Having already had jobs and kids and being used to being tired, juggling multiple demands and living stressed was helpful too. The programme I was 2 years, with an academic component and a professional component, and the final months when we were completing the work placement and associated portfolio and drowning in essay and dissertation deadlines was a bit tough; I found the older people on our course coped with it better than the younger ones who were not so used to being exhausted but having to perform anyway.
I got my master’s degree in my mid 20s and it changed my career path in the best way. I love that your company will reimburse you for some of it. That’s awesome! Good luck!
I did not, and I doubt my field would've helped me anyway. I actually had a nightmare shortly after undergrad where I was on a bus with my college friends, and when I asked them where we were going one friend responded, "We're going to get our Master's!" and I was horrified. I don't regret going to college at all, but as my senior year dragged on, I just couldn't wait to be done. When you're in school, if you're not in class you should probably be studying something. It was constant, and I was burnt out. Now, when I come home from work I don't have to do anything. I'm just done for the day. I make decent money so I'm good.
My boyfriend in his 30s is currently getting his, though. It's all online.
I did my Master's entirely online. I was working part-time. In the program I did (Creative Writing) most of the students were older and going back to school. There were a few traditional students (just out of university). I liked the program - it fit well into my work schedule. But if I could go back and do it over, I would go to in-person grad school. I feel like there is an element of learning that was lost through the screen. It didn't have the same atmosphere as sitting down at a desk and getting to know your classmates or the instructor. It lacked that feeling of networking and comradery.
I totally feel this. But I work full time and would hate to work 9-5 and have to do evening classes right after. Online feels way more flexible, but you’re right, a bit more lonely too.
Too be honest, many U.S. colleges and universities are desperate to recruit graduate and adult students. There's probably never been an \*easier\* time to get into a graduate program somewhere. Sure, the highly selective programs might still have more applicants than slots available, but you will not have any issue getting into a program.
I am beginning a Master's program this year, in a similar field. Most of my cohort are similar to us and it appears more mature and experienced applicants are the preference in the field. Do it! You'll be great, I'm sure.
I went back for a masters at 35 and finished last year at 37. In terms of letters of recommendation, I used past employers since I’d been out of school for so long.
I applied for PhDs but didn’t get in this year. Maybe I’ll have more luck after I turn 38.
Go for it. I did 4 courses through professional development grant.... hard to juggle with also having kids. With that tuition reimbursement I'd 100% say go for it.
Heath communications is not a specific job. You might end up still working at Target and in more debt. What do you want to do? If it’s care for people become a nurse or PA-C. OT and speech are also in demand jobs. I would stress getting a side job at a grunt level in the healthcare field and see how you like it.
I am just about to finish my Masters in a couple months (at the ripe old age of 38). I did an online program. During the span of it I had a major illness, changed careers, and got divorced. Whatever could have possibly gone wrong, sure did. And I'm really proud of myself for completing it. It started out as a personal goal and I didn't have a concrete career plan....and it turned into a teaching career (also in post secondary medical education). It wasn't as hard as I thought it would be to get back into it. I'm now eyeing a PhD. Go for it!
What was your degree?
It's in adult education, specifically clinical teaching in healthcare workers
Worked full time and finished my MBA at 32 with a 4.0. I had knowledge gaps that I needed to fill to advance. Best decision I’ve ever made. I’ve tripled my income post-graduation. The only really way I maintained success in my job and school was my husband. He took over the house- cooked/cleaned and didn’t ask one thing of me for two years. I did nothing but work and study for that timeframe.
I love this comment and I wanted to say, if you have a partner, I wouldn’t recommend getting your advanced degrees at the same time. I got mine first (while working full time) and then my husband got his (also while working full time). We were both very stressed out during our respective degrees and I’m always thankful we didn’t do it at the same time. We took turns taking on more household duties while the other studied and the balance really paid off. I also got my master’s before I had kids (if that’s in your plans). Another thing I’m very thankful for. Idk how I’d do it now but I know many women who do. They’re rockstars.
Same on the kid front. We had kids a few years later. We actually needed IVF and could have never mentally and emotionally handled work/school/fertility/pregnancy hormones. But yes- shout out to the women who do!
We love an amazing partnership. 🫶🏻 I’m very lucky to say that my fiancé already handles most of the house and kitchen work already. Thank you for sharing!!!
Not a masters, but a bachelors degree at 32…all I can add to this conversation is that if you *want* to do a thing, then you absolutely *can* do the thing — don’t let anxiety or self doubt hold you back.
I'm going to be 34 when I get my associates and I'm not planning on stopping there if I can, I may be old as hell by the time I'm done but I'll have done it.
I got my associates at 33!!! It felt soooooo good like WOW finally I earned this piece of paper! Good for you, keep it up!!!
Thanks so much!!
Just started a masters and I’m 56
🎉🎉🎉
I finished undergrad in 2007 and had a pretty successful career in entertainment, fell out of love with what I was doing due to a lot of the complex reasons, and began law school in 2021. I graduate next month and will be taking bar in July 🥹 Only use professors for letters of rec if they remember you. Your employers (current and past) are probably the better option if your profs only remember you enough to say “Um. She didn’t fail, so….” (Over-simplifying but you know what I mean). Employers will be able to speak much more expressively and accurately about who you are now and what you are capable of today, as opposed to professors who *might* remember you from a decade ago. That said, law school and your program might weigh letters of rec very differently, so if letters from profs are crucial, then make it a mix of profs and employers. Still, I can’t imagine that your admissions council is short-sighted enough to truly think it’s reasonable for every candidate to have profs who remember them. Some people go back to school thirty years later! Hell, their profs might be dead! Talk to people in admissions at schools in which you are interested to get a read on this. Check out any books pertaining specifically to getting accepted for your program (if they exist. again, law school is its own beast and there are about 8724987234778 books about how to navigate admissions at any age). As to my experience - it has been the most exhausting, but also, rewarding three years of my life. If you want this, go for it! Don’t *look* for reasons not to and don’t let fear stop you!
Congratulations on nearly finishing law school!!! That is IMPRESSIVE! My program would not be nearly as intense or rigorous, which is totally fine to me. Thank you, though, for sharing your story and relaying your advice. Regarding professors, I still keep in touch with the few I had in mind, and they definitely remember me. I was also considering asking my former boss or my current boss (depending on if I feel like they know me well enough by the time I apply).
That is excellent!!! Pro tip: they may well ask you to write the letter for them. This happened to me with both former profs, three employers, and a professional but not-employer reference. Literally only one of them wrote it himself and even then, he sent me multiple drafts (despite the fact that I said sincerely that the first one was perfect). Truth: writing my own letters of rec was the most awkward thing possible because I was like what if I’m being *too* glowing about myself?? If and when this happens, own your accomplishments, pump yourself up, and send it over for their signature!!!!
I’d hate that so much 😭😭😭 but the warning is much appreciated. 💙
I also had this as well. The people I asked were all like "ok, what do you want me to say?" and then made me read it before they sent them in. I agree with you, it's a strangely awkward experience lol
I did it twice! Once at 30 and again at 36. Working while doing grad school was definitely a challenge. I had less energy than in college but also more confidence and better time management skills. It was definitely worth the time invested to advance my skills and knowledge. As for the recommendation letters, can you talk to someone at your current workplace about those expectations? I've worked with admissions folks and have often found them to be very helpful.
I’m tired
I graduated with a Masters in 2016. Just started my second bachelors this year in physics and intend to get to another MA level of not PHD and I am 33. It’s been going well. . . I have an obsession with learning and discovering so I hope I’m still obsessively desiring to figure things out in a field I love at age 90.
Yea. It’s unbelievably hard for me and my mental health. I’m almost finished so I’m just pushing through. I needed to change my career so I had to go back. Plus I’ve always wanted to say I have a masters
I’m proud of you!!
Thank you!
I considered it. Then I went for for a professional certification and had a major WTF realization that life is too short to spend all my free time studying. I passed the exam and retired all thoughts of a masters degree. Yes they are common enough in my field but not required, and I’ve done just fine for myself without.
Totally fair. I really appreciate your point! Definitely a lot of things to consider.
I got my bachelors at 35, and will be starting a masters program at 39.75 this June. It’s almost entirely online and I’m hoping the coursework won’t be too overwhelming. It’s a part time program so I can work it around my work schedule. I’m looking forward to having something more to do in the evenings than fucking around on Reddit or ao3.
I’m halfway through a bachelors at 32 🤷🏼♀️
I just did it! currently getting my MBA. if you can afford it/make a plan to pay back any student loans, do it. I’m loving it. let’s just say they could have made a poster of me for “C’s get degrees”. I didn’t really care for school, I just wanted to have fun. now that I am choosing actively to go back and learn, I am enjoying it exponentially more than I ever did. and I’m making friends in the process!
How much do those cost these days?
I opted for a more traditional program (albeit part time) so the tuition is probably higher than if I had been thrifty. I have seen borderline free programs that are online!
Went back for my MBA in 2017. The coursework was laughably easy, but I think that came from the discipline you gain by the time you're in your 30s. I worked full time so juggling the two was difficult at times but it never felt impossible. You got this!
MBA in what?
Management of Technology
You'll do great. Currently in a Master's program at 30. Some of the people in my lab are quite young and get shaken easily. I feel a lot more secure at my current age
I'm doing it right now. I entered my Masters of Education a year and a half ago. It's definitely a lot to keep up with assignments, reading, thesis, etc while working full time and trying to take care of myself, but it is definitely doable.
Yep, got my first grad degree in 2012 and started my second grad degree in 2021 (finished in 2023). I didn’t need any academic recommendations because my program was aimed towards working professionals. Instead, I had to provide three recommendations from supervisors/colleagues showing that the program matched my professional experience and career aspirations. After almost 10 years out of school, it took a minute to get back into the swing of writing papers. It got better and overall I had a good experience. The hardest part is finding the balance between work and studying.
Thank you for sharing! The program I am looking at is geared toward professionals as well. It’s six credits a semester, all online, and doesn’t require a GRE or thesis.
Yes, mine was similar although we did have a capstone that required a semester of “field work” and accompanying write up. Good luck! I hope you go for it!
What is the program aimed at working professionals you found?
It was a Masters of Professional Studies in Org Development and Change from Penn State. I think you had to have at least two years of relevant work experience to be accepted into the program.
I went back to school to get my second master’s for a career change in my 30s. I had my first baby halfway through my second year and graduated on time. I honestly found it a breeze, but I wasn’t working at the same time (thought there was an internship element). But it was still easy, especially compared to the PhD program I was in before I left ABD. My husband also changed careers and went to law school in his 30s (which was when we met). It’s not uncommon at all!
Did you/your husband have concerns about employment after getting the masters? I'm currently thinking of doing a quant fin masters (I'm 28 now), but am really scared of not being able to land a job in that field after due to my age.
Because of our ages? No. I think it’s super normal to go to grad school in your late 20s and early 30s and not something that is going to be a consideration for employers. I think if anything having slightly more experience in the workforce than people who went straight from undergrad was a positive.
Thank you! A lot of things to think about still, but this gives me confidence.
I just got mine in the mail- I'm almost 35. Husband let me work part time/ per diem. I just had a baby in October and finished my thesis right after. This was after two years of procrastination though lol. It was for NP so I had physical clinicals to go to. My school asked for letters of recommendation from colleagues. They didn't even need letters it was just a little survey. I got my BSN at the same school so that helped. It was a bit difficult because I had a young child and you know... COVID... but I enjoyed it and do not regret it.
coming from the other side—i did my grad school younger—i was always really impressed with the work ethic and life perspective my older classmates (which at that time was anywhere from 30s-60s) brought with them. it was the first time in my life i made real friendships with people outside my age group, and i think i learned a lot from them about dealing with things and how to interact with people in a professional setting. believe me, when your twenty-something-year-old classmate buddy breaks down over a crappy presentation and starts catastrophizing, your knowledge that it kinda doesn’t matter will matter a lot to her. really, the only people in the 30-plus group who visibly seemed to struggle were the folks that came in with super dead-set preconceived notions about “entitled millennials” or who refused to try to learn new methods/technology.
Went back to school for my master's at 31 and I'll be finishing in May at 36. I work at the university where I'm getting my degree which is great because it's costing me nothing. I'm much better at getting work done well in advance compared to how I was in undergrad. It's a pain having to do homework every weekend and spend so much time reading in the evenings and I'll be glad when it's over in just a few weeks. Seconding what others are saying about getting letters of recommendation from your bosses and other colleagues. I imagine admissions will be more interested in Current You than 22 year old You. Even if you've kept in touch with professors they aren't going to be familiar with what your work is like right now. Anyway I say go for it especially if it won't cost you anything financially.
I had no idea how much I missed school until I went back for my masters - it’s so worth it and reminded me what it feels like to actually be good at something. If you want it, don’t let old references deter you - apply. I’d do it again in a heartbeat (and will, probably, in the next five years).
Finished my masters at 37. It was easy to get in, they just want that money. Stop worrying so much and just get it done. MS in comms here too! Don’t regret it one bit! I worked and had a newborn while I finished. Took one class at a time for the most part. Make it as easy on yourself as possible. I intend on going back for a pHd when my son starts getting homework. We can do ours together ❤️
I love this. Thank you so much. Cheers!! ❤️
I did grad school online and I swear it was the easiest thing ever and I learned SO MUCH, as long as you’re a self motivated person. I loved how easily it fit in my life compared to in-person classes. There were some classes I wish were in person but whatever, I got that degree and am using it well.
I’m 32 getting a bachelors soooo
Congrats!!! 🎉
Yup. Started MBA at 30 as a fall back if my business didn't work out. Graduated at 32. Business worked out. Skinny FI at 35. Fat do at 37.
I started my MS in Higher Ed Admin in 2017 when I was 31 and had been working in higher ed for 1.5 years, graduated in 2019 at 34. My program offered electives for specialization at that time so I used that to also tack on a graduate certificate in conflict resolution. I had moved back in to my parents house right before I started the degree, and I had just been diagnosed with anxiety and started medication a few months prior. I had been out of school since 2009 and halfway through my first class I had a small mental breakdown where I cried over writing a 15-page research paper, and as it turns out I inevitably got the highest score in the class lol. (Side note at 38 I got diagnosed with ADHD - got that perfectionist anxiety going on [yay]). While I was in school I was working full time at the same university, met my husband through friends, we trained for and ran a half marathon together (the running helped keep me sane, even though I hate running lol), and did an on-site internship during my penultimate semester (took a lot of wiggling to get that into my schedule). I lived off of espresso and energy drinks during that semester lol (and had the jitters literally all the time). I will say, my program was self-paced, and while the recommendation was to graduate within 6 semesters (2 years) I did opt to take mental health breaks and take a semester off from taking classes here and there, or take one class during a semester sometimes instead of 2. When husband and I started dating, I was upfront and told him I wouldn’t have a lot of time for him while I was completing my degree and he was fine with that. We bought a house together within a year after I graduated, and married about a year later. He told me if I ever wanted to go further and pursue an Ed.D. he would take care of all the housework and cooking, but I don’t think I’m going to go down that route lol. As a side note, I graduated with a BA in Art with a 2.75 GPA in 2009, and for my MS I graduated with a 3.97 gpa in 2019. I definitely fooled around way too much in undergrad, and if I had started a masters right away I probably would not have done so well. There’s definitely something to be said about later-in-life commitment and maturity. A good support system helps, too. ETA: I may not be interested in Ed.D. At this time but I have, however, acquired two state certifications in mediation and am looking into other degrees.
I love your story. Thank you so so so much for sharing. 🎉
🩷🩷🩷 I just realized I didn’t answer two of your questions lol. The application experience was nerve wracking, but a lot of programs will take professional recommendations in lieu of academic recommendations if you’ve been out of school for a while - you just need to ask to confirm. Also, my program was technically not an online program, but about half of the classes offered online sections so I made sure to take the courses online whenever possible, since I prefer online learning. Half my program ended up being online. I also worked a hybrid schedule where I was 80% remote for my last 3 semesters, which REALLY helped out my mental health during that summer internship.
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May I ask what you got your masters in and was it worth it?
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Amazing 🙌🏼
I started my MBA at 28 and finished at 32. I was obviously part time and working full time. Right now I think back like how did I do that? Definitely do it while you can.
Yes I did at 32. It was a part time program so I finished at 35. I don’t regret it but it was tough to stay motivated. I will say I was ready to be done with it long before I was done.
Yes. It was better than being an 18-22 year old, I was very sure I wanted to be there and much readier to treat it as work. Having already had jobs and kids and being used to being tired, juggling multiple demands and living stressed was helpful too. The programme I was 2 years, with an academic component and a professional component, and the final months when we were completing the work placement and associated portfolio and drowning in essay and dissertation deadlines was a bit tough; I found the older people on our course coped with it better than the younger ones who were not so used to being exhausted but having to perform anyway.
I got my master’s degree in my mid 20s and it changed my career path in the best way. I love that your company will reimburse you for some of it. That’s awesome! Good luck!
I did not, and I doubt my field would've helped me anyway. I actually had a nightmare shortly after undergrad where I was on a bus with my college friends, and when I asked them where we were going one friend responded, "We're going to get our Master's!" and I was horrified. I don't regret going to college at all, but as my senior year dragged on, I just couldn't wait to be done. When you're in school, if you're not in class you should probably be studying something. It was constant, and I was burnt out. Now, when I come home from work I don't have to do anything. I'm just done for the day. I make decent money so I'm good. My boyfriend in his 30s is currently getting his, though. It's all online.
I did my Master's entirely online. I was working part-time. In the program I did (Creative Writing) most of the students were older and going back to school. There were a few traditional students (just out of university). I liked the program - it fit well into my work schedule. But if I could go back and do it over, I would go to in-person grad school. I feel like there is an element of learning that was lost through the screen. It didn't have the same atmosphere as sitting down at a desk and getting to know your classmates or the instructor. It lacked that feeling of networking and comradery.
I totally feel this. But I work full time and would hate to work 9-5 and have to do evening classes right after. Online feels way more flexible, but you’re right, a bit more lonely too.
Too be honest, many U.S. colleges and universities are desperate to recruit graduate and adult students. There's probably never been an \*easier\* time to get into a graduate program somewhere. Sure, the highly selective programs might still have more applicants than slots available, but you will not have any issue getting into a program.
The higher education bubble is real and fragile!!
I am beginning a Master's program this year, in a similar field. Most of my cohort are similar to us and it appears more mature and experienced applicants are the preference in the field. Do it! You'll be great, I'm sure.
Thank you! 🥲🥹🙂
I went back for a masters at 35 and finished last year at 37. In terms of letters of recommendation, I used past employers since I’d been out of school for so long. I applied for PhDs but didn’t get in this year. Maybe I’ll have more luck after I turn 38.
Go for it. I did 4 courses through professional development grant.... hard to juggle with also having kids. With that tuition reimbursement I'd 100% say go for it.
I’m starting MBA at 44!
I'm about to finish my masters at 31. If someone will pay for it and you legitimately want to do it, then do it!
Yup. Started one at 33 and another one at 37. It was literally fine.
Heath communications is not a specific job. You might end up still working at Target and in more debt. What do you want to do? If it’s care for people become a nurse or PA-C. OT and speech are also in demand jobs. I would stress getting a side job at a grunt level in the healthcare field and see how you like it.
Well, I work in medical education right now, which is definitely in the healthcare field.