EDUCATION MATTERS
tions before cutting them off the list. If you want to change “the story of your life,” let yourself think big so you can aim for your best! 2. If you can, talk with the people organizing, teaching and studying in the programs that excite you most. Find out everything you can, from schedules and expectations to scholarships and post-graduation support and placements. Then you can assess: ● Which program best fits your style and personal/professional needs? ● Which program has the most flexibility? The most rigor? ● Which program has the best support for students? ● Which program has the most qualified and influential faculty? ● Which program feels right for you? 3. If you’re still uncertain, turn to friends and mentors who know you well, and talk through the possibilities. Get their feedback on your thoughts. Remember they may see you differently, and have lower or higher expectations than you have for yourself. Take what they say with a grain of salt, and choose the feedback that helps you step up to a new challenge with self-knowledge. Remember to ask them these questions, at least: ● What are my strengths to build on? ● What challenges do you see in this plan? ● What support might you offer as I move through this pro - gram?
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4. With all this information, you’re now ready to choose your top op - portunity. Note: You don’t need to limit yourself with this step! Start with your first choice, and commit to finding every resource to make it sustainable. Ask these questions if they apply: ● What is my workplace policy for continuing education sup- port? (If it applies, you might get funds, time release, refer - ences, eligibility for salary bumps and promotions, or mento- ring support). ● What scholarship opportunities are available from local and national sources? There may be special scholarships for you in particular, based on need, level of experience, age, gender, race, or other identity group. For example, PEO (www.peoint- ernational.org/) offers comprehensive scholarships and low-interest loans for women and girls, supporting diverse certifications, undergraduate and graduate training. There are specific scholarships for Trade Schools and Certificates (https://skillpointe.com/news-and-advice/yes-trade-school- scholarships-exist-heres-how-get-them); corporate-spon-
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PATHWAYS—Fall 24—35
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