Ashley’s Return to School: How One Adult Learner is Reclaiming Her Education
When Ashley decided to return to college as an adult learner, she wasn’t quite sure what to expect. Like many students who step back into the world of higher education, she had questions. How would she pay for school? Would she have support as an online student? Was this even the right time?
What she didn’t expect was a call that would change everything.
Ashley had been exploring scholarships online when she received a call from a Graduation Specialist. At first, she was skeptical - "What’s the catch?" she remembers thinking. But as the specialist explained the program - dedicated guidance, academic support, help navigating her classes - she realized this was something different.
“They said, ‘We stick with you every step of the way,’” Ashley recalls. “And I thought, wait, there’s really a program that helps you like this?”
That moment sparked the beginning of a new chapter.
Ashley enrolled in an online program, pursuing a degree in Health Information Technology. Already working as a Certified Nursing Assistant, she felt drawn to the healthcare field, but wanted to challenge herself intellectually and grow into an administrative role.
“I love caring for people,” she said. “But I also wanted to stimulate my mind and use my skills in a different way.”
Like many adult learners, Ashley brings real-world experience into her virtual classrooms. She’s found that her background gives her a unique perspective, especially in classes like medical terminology. And while online learning comes with its own challenges, Ashley has learned how to manage her time, plan ahead, and stay disciplined.
“The hardest part is you’re not in front of the instructor,” she said. “But if you need help, there’s always someone to reach out to. That’s the best part. You’re never alone.”
Ashley is one of thousands of students proving that it’s never too late to return to school, and that with the right support system, success is more than possible. Whether it’s through graduation specialists checking in, professors responding to questions, or campus resources like tutoring and career services, students like Ashley are discovering that education doesn’t have to be a solo journey.
“When I first heard about all the help I could get, I was shocked,” she said. “But now I know it’s real.”
As economic changes continue to require more postsecondary education for career success, colleges and universities stand to play a pivotal role in the future of work by connecting working adults with the skills required to succeed in the workplace.