by “You are so lucky to be in college.” That’s what a young mother told me at a house dinner once. She proceeded to tell me how she regretted not finishing her degree before getting married and having children. In her mind, the opportunity for college had passed.
At the time, I thought her comment was strange; but a few years later, I understand what she meant. I was young and single, and I thought college was stressful. I had many classes with final exams to take.
Now that a few years have passed, I can understand how people feel they’ve missed their chance at earning a degree. They may believe that if you didn’t go to college between the ages of 18 and 22, it’s too late. The truth is, as long as you are alive and determined, you can go to college.
If you go to school when you’re younger, you may be able to focus more on your studies and social life. With fewer things on your plate, you can make better grades. But I’ve also seen students who are parents, and they truly value their college experience because they want to provide a better life for their children. They can thrive and excel as well.
For some people, going to college at the age of 20 will be better than going when they’re 40, while others might benefit more by going to college at the age of 60 than 30.
No matter what age and time you go — count it as a blessing. I can look back a few years and realize that my time in college was a gift.
