At 55, I’m embarking on a journey many might consider unconventional—returning to university to study psychology and counselling. This isn’t a decision I’ve made lightly. I’ve always been passionate about helping others and I particularly want to help young people struggling with substance abuse, and the idea of acquiring the skills to make a real difference has driven me to take this bold step. However, the excitement of starting this new chapter comes with its own set of challenges, fears, and sacrifices.
What I’m Giving Up
Returning to study means making significant changes in my life, many of which involve giving up the familiar comforts of my established routine. Some of the key things I’ll need to sacrifice include:
- Time for Myself: I’ve grown accustomed to a certain rhythm in life, having more time to enjoy hobbies, relax, and perhaps even take it easy. Studying means hours spent reading textbooks, attending classes, and working on assignments—time that could otherwise be spent pursuing personal interests.
- Financial Stability: Even though I’m excited about the future possibilities, going back to university means investing in tuition fees, materials, and other expenses. It’s not just about the cost of education, but also the potential impact on my current earning potential, as I dedicate more time to studying and less to other opportunities.
- Social Time: I’ve always cherished spending time with friends and family, but returning to university might mean cutting back on those regular meet-ups, coffee dates, and weekend getaways. The workload could mean fewer moments of leisure, and I’ll need to balance my priorities carefully.
- Mental Comfort Zone: At this stage in life, I’ve developed certain skills and knowledge, and stepping back into a classroom will mean being a student again. I’ll be surrounded by people younger than me, potentially more familiar with the academic environment. This adjustment is daunting—it’s unfamiliar territory.
Facing the Fear of Studying Again
One of my biggest fears is the very idea of returning to studying. The thought of keeping up with coursework, deadlines, and exams feels overwhelming. It’s been years since I last wrote an essay or prepared for an exam, and I worry about how I’ll manage the academic demands. Will I be able to keep up? What if I struggle to understand the material?
Then, there’s the fear of being judged. I wonder how others, especially younger classmates, will perceive me. Will I fit in? Will my age be seen as a hindrance, or will it be an advantage? These thoughts are hard to shake.
However, I also remind myself that I bring something valuable to the table—life experience. Over the years, I’ve accumulated wisdom, resilience, and a deeper understanding of human nature. These aren’t things you can learn in a textbook, and they will serve me well in my studies and future career.
Why It’s Worth It
Despite the sacrifices and fears, I believe this journey is worth it. I’m driven by a purpose: to help young people overcome the challenges of substance abuse. By studying psychology and counselling, I’m equipping myself with the tools to guide them toward a healthier future.
This is also a personal challenge. Going back to university at 55 is a way to prove to myself that I’m still capable of growth, learning, and contributing meaningfully to society. It’s about stepping outside my comfort zone and embracing the unknown, which can be both terrifying and exhilarating.
Final Thoughts
As I prepare for this new chapter, I acknowledge the difficulties ahead, but I’m also excited about the possibilities. Returning to study psychology and counselling at this stage of life is an opportunity to follow my passion, develop new skills, and make a real difference in people’s lives.
There will be sacrifices and moments of self-doubt, but I’m ready to face those challenges head-on. After all, growth comes from stepping outside our comfort zones. I’m scared, yes, but I’m also ready. This is my time to learn, grow, and give back.
