Introduction
How important is education? The answer to that is simple, very! What is the definition of education? Merriam-Webster has a few definitions:
The knowledge and development resulting from the process of being educated or The field of study that deals mainly with methods of teaching and learning in schools.
You can dive into education at a college or university, through on the job training, a certification program, or self-study.
This educational series is educating you on a variety of areas of life as applied to recovery from Substance Abuse Disorder and addiction. Some of which you may have already known and need a gentle reminder. Other information is new to you. Real knowledge is not just information stored in your head, but knowledge applied to your life. How have you been able to start applying your knowledge gained in this series as a stepping-stone to a new chapter in your life?
High School Equivalency
With the development of online education, finishing high school or completing a High School Equivalency like the General Education Development test or GED, has never been more accessible. Watch the following video created by the Salvation Army on the benefits of the GED through a program in Tucson, AZ. Listen to the testimonies of the people who made the choice to continue their education.
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Did you notice the joy on the faces of the individuals who had completed the GED course?
Did they believe now that new opportunities were opened up to them as a result of the work they accomplished?
Can you return to further education at any point in your life, younger or older? So many people grow up believing they are not capable of learning. They get stuck in the belief that their lack of educational opportunities early in life limit them now from changing their life situation and circumstances. This discouragement may lead to dropping out of school or turning to drugs and illegal activities. Recognizing the need for redirection and choosing a new path is like shining a high wattage flashlight onto the steps ahead of you. Your ability to earn a sustainable living with a high school equivalency dramatically increases.
Suggested Action Step
Go to this link to search for high school equivalency programs like the GED accessible to you right now.
Take a College Class
In developing this Module, I was able to draw from my own experiences with education. After high school I moved away from my family and went to college. During that year my substance use increased and my ability to consistently focus on education got less and less. I was distracted and put my education onto the back burner. I’ll go back to school next year. It’s not that important anyway. I really don’t feel like studying. The truth is, as long as I had enough money to keep my lifestyle and habits fed, I thought all would be fine. But that wasn’t true. I was deeply unsatisfied and knew that getting back on track was hugely important.
I just wasn’t able to do it without real honesty about where my addictive behavior had brought me.
I decided to start with one class, a computer class online at the local Community College. A Federal grant even paid for it! After that first class I took another class and another. After successfully completing those, I had established a rhythm and confidence to go back full-time and finish an Associate of Arts degree and then enroll in a bachelor’s degree program. I was so grateful to be given a second chance at education! It’s been worth every effort.
Start Where You Are
Whatever your level of education, if you desire to learn more and continue on towards a High School Equivalency, an Undergraduate degree, or a Graduate degree, you can accomplish it. Anything is possible. The challenges you have with work, family, money, time, are just that, challenges. If you believe, have hope, and are willing to re-organize, the next level is open to you. Perhaps you can identify one class that you want to take and start there. It may or may not be a part of a degree program. Perhaps you just want to take a class to learn more and connect with others.
Suggested Action Step
Identify a school near you or online that has a program you are interested in. Make a list of questions you have such as:
Do you accept a GED?
Do I need to take a test?
Do any of my previous credits transfer?
Is there help filling out the Financial Aid document?
Can I sit down with an Academic Advisor?
After writing down these and any other questions you have, call an Academic Advisor at that school, schedule an appointment and get the information you need to get going.
Finding Good Childcare
If you have children or are planning to have children in the near future then finding good childcare while you are working, going to school, or out on a date night will be needed.
Is there someone close by who comes to mind that is dependable and capable of supporting you with child-care?
Here is a video on things to look for when choosing a good daycare center.
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Also, there are apps for your device that help you find the childcare services you need like Care.com App (this also connects with elderly care services) and Urban Sitter. See helpful links below to go to the article.
Question for Reflection: What did you enjoy most about your last level of formal education whether high school or college? What was your biggest obstacle to continuing your education?
Helpful Links
A comprehensive site for all things related to Career Development www.careeronestop.org