Is it feasible for me to go to college?

[Liviathan]

Background: I am 27, graduated high school in 1993. Didn't have the best of grades, I was smart just didn't apply myself. Did alright in SAT's. Really couldn't afford to go anywhere or probably get anywhere. So I went to community college. Dad got cancer, mom had parkinsons. Dropped out to take care of my dad. Had to drive him everyday to radio/chemo. Mom to doctor every so often. So whatever....things are not going good for family. I get a job. I was into computer programming since I was 12...so I got a job doing web pages late 96-early 97. Keep on working...move up the ladder...grow on my skills. Never went back to college.

So it has been years!! I was working for big company (IBM) got laid off after 2.5yrs. I'm a bit bitter now, since don't feel confident on my skills anymore...but I feel I am smart, and know my stuff. And I feel i'm honest with people...I never BS my way out of something...If I didn't know I said so, but made a point not be in that position again.

So it's been 4 months..no job..no prospects. I live in Chicago, next to Loyola university and I've been thinking of going back. I don't know if its even possible because I have no idea if I can afford it...and I feel bad asking my parents or anyone else for help, but thats another issue....

But at my age what would a college look for?? I was thinking of setting up an appointment with someone in admisions and just being honest. I know that I didn't have the best grades but that was 10yrs ago. My life has change and I feel like i have something to offer.

Anyone else been in the position or have opinions?

Thanks.

 

[CanOWorms]

Why don't you type up a nice letter with the points you mentioned in your post and submit it as your personal statement/extra statement in applications.

 

[IamElectro]

It always possible man go for it!!

My story is a little different than yours, but I'm 29 and started back to school fulltime last year.
Working on a computer and electrical engineering degree at WVU. I applied for Financial aid and had to take out loans for the first year but this year 90% of my schooling is paid for by grants. "Being older and going back to school has some advantages"

I did not have to turn in any ACT,SAT scores either. This probably depends on the school.

 

[Thegonagle]

I'm in a similar situation. I'm 28 and I want to become an engineer. I always have. So I set up an appointment with an entrance counselor at the local state uni's Institute of Technology. Basically, all I need is the two years of liberal arts with a 3.0 GPA, and I'm in, guaranteed. I decided to take a transfer program at the local community college. Since nobody's paying for it except me, I decided it'd be smart to do it that way. I'm saving many thousands by taking the first two years at the community college. Then, I take all the engineering courses at the University, and graduate carrying their degree.

I could also have taken the liberal arts at the University, and then transferred into their Engineering program, but for a working guy like me, the community college is much more convenient for the time being. It's probably a little easier to get my 3.0 GPA there, too.

 

[Corporate Thug]

more than possible, just gotta have the motivation to go thru with it

 

[digitalsm]

Go see an admissions counselor, then I suggest going to a CC for 2 years and getting all your core class out of the way. Transfer with a good GPA and theres not a problem.

 

[Willoughbyva]

Yes you shouldn't have to many problems getting into a college. I went to a community college and transfered in to my college of choice.

 

[Maetryx]

The average age at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks, is 30. UAF

 

[Liviathan]

I'm going to give it a shot and talk to an counselor. I have no clue how I'm going to pay for it...since I still haven't found a job...so we shall see.