The Road Not Taken| Returning to College #studentmom #backtoschool #firstsemester

At this autumnal season in my life, I'm working on launching my children, but where does this leave me? What will I do when they're gone? With one kid who just graduated with her A.A. and the others trailing behind her in middle and high school, my life is edging toward the inevitability of an empty nest. 

My college grad is contemplating going to my alma mater and that has really thrown me for a loop. Twenty-two years ago, having a preemie (this same child) made studying and attending classes too overwhelming for me. So I dropped my classes to part-time.

Daddy in the NICU

Our firstborn baby girl at home

Unbeknownst to me that one decision changed the course of my life. I didn't know that I needed to be a full-time student to keep my fellowship (= free tuition). So, I would have to pay full price for college, and I had trouble finding a sitter so I could attend my classes. It was all too much. I had to quit. And I rarely quit anything.

Watching my now twenty-two year old daughter contemplate attending the same college, the place that I trod upon when she was a babe in my womb, has made me long to return and finish what I started.

After much prayer, research, and reflection, I've decided to go back to school. After three literature classes, I'll qualify for the program that has peaked my interest, the Masters of Education in Reading Education, which is basically a Reading Coach or Specialist. I'll help struggling readers and kids with dyslexia learn how to read.

I've already finished one introductory literature course, passed American Lit for free via the CLEP exam (thanks, Modern States!), and I'm currently studying to pass the Brit Lit exam. After I complete these undergrad courses, I can apply for the Master's program.

College in my forties is quite a different experience than when I was in my early twenties. I find that I'm not in such a rush, and I care less about the grade and more about what I can take away. I'm really enjoying learning about literary analysis and the history of English literature.

My last poetry analysis assignment for my Intro to Lit class was fitting, "The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost. I don't regret the choice I've made to stay home with my kids, and now by the grace of God, I'm coming back again to the road not taken.