Life has an uncanny way of leading you to unexpected places, and at 32, I've chosen to take the plunge and return to university. This decision scares me, especially since, according to societal norms, I should be much further along in my career. But honestly, who sets these standards anyway?
So here I am, taking a deep breath and stepping out of the box. It's a scary decision, and it's not one that many people around me have made. The thought of compromising four years of my adult life for a chance at a better future is daunting. Yet, I find myself motivated by the possibility of inspiring other women who are contemplating this same path.
And I know that I'm privileged. I have the unwavering support of a wonderful partner and a family that has always encouraged me to be the best version of myself. But even with this support system, the decision to return to university feels like stepping into uncharted territory.
Returning to university is not just about personal growth; it’s a statement against outdated ideologies. It’s about claiming the right to choose our paths, regardless of what anyone else thinks. Studies show that the number of women returning to university is on the rise. In fact, according to recent statistics, there has been a 20% increase in women aged 30 and above enrolling in higher education compared to ten years ago. Women are increasingly taking control of their destinies, whether they're doing it at 22 or 32.
Look at some successful women who went back to university later in life. Take Joyce Maynard, for example. Joyce Maynard, a successful author and journalist, is known for her early writing career, including a column in The New York Times and several acclaimed novels. Then, Maynard felt the call to complete her formal education in her 50s. She enrolled at Yale University, a dream she had set aside decades earlier. Balancing her coursework with her established career, Maynard immersed herself in her studies, bringing a wealth of life experience to the academic environment. Her determination and passion for learning earned her respect and admiration from both professors and classmates. Joyce Maynard's journey is a powerful reminder that the pursuit of knowledge and personal growth has no age limit, and it can open new chapters in an already successful life.
Another example is Louise Brown, a distinguished British journalist and author, who embarked on her university education journey in her 30s. After working various jobs and raising her children, Brown decided to follow her long-held passion for literature. She enrolled at the University of London, where she pursued a degree in English Literature. Her academic success led to a deeper involvement in writing, eventually culminating in several published books and articles in prominent journals. Brown also writes about contemporary issues, including politics, human rights, and environmental concerns, providing thoughtful commentary and analysis.
Another example is Louise Brown, a distinguished British journalist and author, who embarked on her university education journey in her 30s. After working various jobs and raising her children, Brown decided to follow her long-held passion for literature. She enrolled at the University of London, where she pursued a degree in English Literature. Her academic success led to a deeper involvement in writing, eventually culminating in several published books and articles in prominent journals. Brown also writes about contemporary issues, including politics, human rights, and environmental concerns, providing thoughtful commentary and analysis.
So, here's to the women who are contemplating a return to academia or any other bold move that defies societal norms. Whether you’re driven by a desire for a better career, personal fulfillment, or just sheer curiosity, know that you are not alone. It's a scary decision, yes, but it’s also a powerful one. And who knows? Maybe our stories will inspire others to step out of their own neatly decorated boxes and carve out a path that is uniquely theirs.
In the end, it’s not about where society thinks we should be. It’s about where we want to go and who we want to become. Here’s to embracing the journey, no matter how unconventional it may be.