A good education is expensive

[Cataholic]

I would live at home until you complete your education. In many cases, that might not be ideal, but, it is possible. Big difference between ideal and possible.

Not getting an education is so much more costly in the end. It isn't about letters after your name, or some indicator of brilliance. It is a sign to potential employers, and yourself (the most important employer) that you are teachable, can reason, have some diversity beyond high school algebra, and can commit to something for 4 years.

Obtaining an education after high school also allows you to open your mind, explore your world beyond what you have largely been subjected to for the last 12 years- educationally. Here, in the states, what you are taught is very american focused. In college, you get the opportunity to hear/learn from people that might not be american educated. It was VERY interesting for me to hear from iraqi teachers, for instance.

Taking classes at community college and online is less expensive than the traditional, 4 year, bricks and mortar type experience some of us older folks went through. One thing I remember from way back when was taking a full-time load could mean anything from 12-19 credit hours. It was cheaper in the long run to take 19 credits, though maybe harder, then to take part-time credits which were based on the number of hours. That might be different today, and maybe it varies place to place. But, taking 10 semesters part time was more expensive than taking 8 semester full load.

[emily_the_spoiled]

Congratulations on making the decision to go back to school! Your education is the one thing that no one can ever take from you. It will not be easy, but I think I can promise you that it will be worth it in the long run. (Hey I liked it so much I went back three times but then again some people just say that I am sick!)

You are taking the right approach by starting with Community College. That way you can get back into the "habit" of going to school and studying, while working. But as people say, talk with the financial aid office. It is expensive to go to school and they know it, so they are more than willing to help you out but you have to ask.