Doubting my abilities?

[LittleMissPreppy]

I am considering doing a Masters course, but worried I am out of my depth.

Practicalities wise, it should be ok: It would be part time, and would fit around my responsibilities. Also I have saved up over the last 10 years so I am fortunate that I can pay for it (and my materials/resources) myself without needing funding etc. Also I could drop out and claim a PGCert/Dip at certain points if I feel it’s too much.

I have done a few random courses over the years but nothing academic really. Also the course I have chosen (English Literature) isn’t related to my previous study or work: purely chosen because I love reading and the history and social side of literature.

Is self-doubt common for mature students? I am not very confident, and have some social anxiety, and I worry people will laugh at me and think I think something special of myself, or that I am wasting my time and not good enough. Plus the fact it’s not really related to my job at all, and isn’t going to enhance my career (unless I do an additional teaching cert and look to teach further education or something, which I have thought about).

How do I prepare for this? Should I do some academic writing refreshers or something along those lines? Can anyone recommend any of the free OU modules to do? I did have a look but there are thousands and I’m not sure if they are the appropriate level for Masters level study or not.

(Gosh sorry, that’s not a very concise question, I really need to work on my writing skills )

I hear you! I am 2 years into a 3 year part time MSc and still have lots of wobbles. I agree that a couple of free modules or a MOOC through FutureLearn or something would get you back into the groove of academic learning. The Uni I am with also ran specific academic writing sessions for people who have been out of education for a while. there is lots of support for postgrads, especially mature students.

My university does writing courses as a free extra -intersessional they are called. I did one each year at undergrad and 2 in first term of masters.

Tons of books also out there, how to write great essays /great law essays /dissertations etc.

Masters isn't much different to undergrad in terms of technique, it's just more depth on a number of subjects.

Practicalities:

Presumably you already have a first degree? And are aware of Government Postgraduate Loans which are only repayable if your subsequent salary is over a certain level.

Do you already have a preferred institution? Do you know what their entrance requirements are in general, and specifically for you? Have you had a conversation with them about applying? (You really must do this.)

Self doubt:

I worry people will laugh at me and think I think something special of myself, or that I am wasting my time and not good enough.

Okay - this only indicates that you perhaps don’t know terribly nice people. (Or perhaps you don’t know people accustomed to the concept of lifelong learning?) Why on earth should anyone react in any way other than being impressed that you’re trying to achieve your ambitions, and wishing you good luck?

Preparation:

Talk to the institution first. Tell them what you have been doing that shows evidence of engagement with the subject. Free courses are rarely a bad idea - but you would need to build up to the right level.

It’s hard to suggest more without knowing more about your academic and career background, and about the course - whether online or in person, reputation, length of course, etc.

Self doubt definitely common for me and the friends I've made on my masters!

But do it anyway.