38 years old. Giving job up and going to Uni. Am I crazy?

[toomanyjobsin1day]

So, I applied to my local University (didn't think I would get in). I've been offered a place on a BA Criminology Degree with Foundation Year. I've never been to University before. I've worked in administration all my working life. I'm only part time and my hubby works (earns around 17,000). I can get slightly more money a year through student loans than my current wages so I will not be putting us out of pocket. I want a better life for my children ( aged 6 and 13) and I want a career. Is it too late for all this and am I mad? Any views appreciated

Congratulations! What job will you do with your degree? Something in criminology or a graduate scheme?

Hi, I'm not sure yet! I am quite interested in probation work. I'll be at Uni for 4 years and you get to go on placements too which will help me decide. I need to hand my notice in today, so just having some jitters

Do it. My mum did it in her 40s and has never looked back. I am sure it wasn't always easy with a family but she had a great time and I am so proud of her.

Funnily enough I am now mid 40s and considering going back to uni next year. It never even occurred to me I would be to old etc as my mum has proved what a success it can be

Do it for you and your children. Good luck and have a wonderful time.

Thank you! That means alot! I need to hand my notice in today but my student finance has not been sorted yet so it's a bit risky, but if I want to do it I have no choice! I'm very excited I want to do this so much. I just hope there are more 'mature' students on my course 😂

Yeah! @toomanyjobsin1day do it!! I went back to uni at 50 chucking in a long term stable job and I haven't regretted it for a moment

Got a job I really enjoy as a result hope you get the finance sorted, it takes time.

A million percent do it. Even if you don't get a job because of it, it will make you a different person and have a massive impact on your life😀

Thanks everyone!

Go for it OP
I'm the same age as you and would have no hesitation in doing the same. I am looking to retrain into a decent job/career but I just can't decide what it is I should do. I'm currently in a part time admin role but on mat leave.

Good for you. I was 35 when I did my degree and felt what you are feeling and wondered whether I was too old. Three other people on my small course were similar ages to you. I thoroughly enjoyed my course and have no regrets. You will find you have more confidence (than the average 18/19 year old), more life experience, be more focused and have a better work ethic all which will help you with your studies.
Do you know what’s holding up your Student Finance did you apply late or something? You can check the progress of your application online.

Yeah I applied late as I went through clearing. I'm panicking now because I have done a certificate with the open university (30 credits) last year and I'm thinking they might not fund 4 years at university. Going to ring them as soon as they open.

I am sure you will be fine. Student Finance usually fund a student for the duration of a course plus one year or a gift year. But definitely double check by phoning them today before you hand your notice in.

Do it! You'll be working until you are nearly 70, the way pensions are going. That's almost 30 more years of work. If you don't want to be in admin all your life, now's the time to change. If it's PT you can probably work a day a week too and top up your income that way.
Congratulations.

Morning .well done good on you .you'll be fine and you'll wonder why you were nervous .You're a inspiration and the posts are right it's never too late to start a new chapter .

Do it! This was me last year. I did well in my foundation last year. I am eagerly awaiting my 'first' year. I'm 46

Eek! Thank you!! I've rang Student Finance there's no issues because my open university course was part time. Phew! I'm literally trying to think of problems 🙄 😂 All this encouragement is fantastic, I've never had any from my family (parents/siblings) before and I'm sure they think I'll fail. More reason to do it! Thank you everyone for all your positive vibes xx

@donsjimena really? How was it??

@donajimena Really? How was it???

Best thing ever! I worked hard but socialised and made new friends too. A lot of us are mature students with children so our socialising isn t the same as it might have been at 18/19 but its been brilliant.
I'm doing a degree in Environmental Health.

Congratulations donajimena.You're both doing fantastic and amazing .bet your families are so proud of you.

I went back to uni last year at the age of 48. I'm a single mother of 3 and I LOVE it. Don't think twice. Jump in eith both feet and don't look back

Go girls .you've done fab gingergenius.single parenting is hard at best of times but studying as well. I did my level 3 ta last year and passed still job hunting though .

Fantastic... well done you!

Wow, you've all done amazing. I struggle with my self confidence sometimes so it's a really big step. I would love to make new friends! I don't socialise really, since having my kids, as I was a single parent for four years and lost a lot of 'friends' over the years. I'm so excited (and scared!)

Congratulations