- Work and save money. Sacrifice—every dollar saved can be applied toward a degree. For parents who have a financial responsibility for children, Overton Leadership Associates recommends that you avoid debt while pursuing your first degree (Associates or Bachelors).
- Take all the steps necessary in order to get admitted to an accredited college or university.
- Apply for all applicable scholarships, grants, internships, and co-op opportunities. Researching and applying for free financial aid is a time-consuming process, but it is crucial to avoid debt.
- Pursue a degree that can be earned 100% online by taking courses on a part-time basis. Establish a regular study schedule and minimize activities that are not moving you closer to earning a degree. Acknowledge that pursuing a degree on a part-time schedule will take longer, but it’s still worth pursuing. Contact Overton Leadership Associates and ask about our “Five-Year Look back Philosophy” to understand why parents who have financial responsibility for children should keep pressing toward a debt-free first degree.
- Acknowledge that there will be people who will (intentionally or unintentionally) attempt to derail you from your goal. Discipline and focus are the keys to forging ahead when others urge you to quit. Also, it’s a great idea to join or establish a network of parents pursuing a degree. Motivate each other all the way to degree completion. Remember that you are not alone on this quest. Thousands of parents have overcome the odds and earned their first degree. You can be next! Overton Leadership Associates wants you to succeed!
Note: Young adults ages 17-25, make sure to go to overtonleaders.com and complete your Real College Plan Career Field Interest Survey today!
Herb