I think I've Made a Decision

I'm pretty sure I've decided not to pursue a Masters at this point, but to get my paralegal certificate instead. Because I've already got a lot of schooling under my belt, along with work experience, I can probably get it done in a few semesters, depending, of course, upon how many credits I take a semester (I'm going to start out slow--I've never worked full time and gone to school).

I'm kind of sad not to get a Masters, at this point, but after talking to several different attorneys, including both of my bosses, I got a lot of feedback that a paralegal certificate would be more beneficial at this point. And it would get me some schooling that I can actually apply to my job. (Turns out that Biology doesn't really help with law--who'd a thought?!, though my minor in psychology has, unfortunately, been a bit more helpful.)

So I've been researching schools. They are almost just as expensive as the Master's Program I looked into. And I have a meeting with American River College (ARC) next week to talk about their program...which is easier to get into and a whole lot cheaper...but in class...which means night classes...which means I'm probably going to have to change my hours at work a bit (which my boss said is totally do-able, and he would be happy to accomidate! Yay!). I just need to make sure that it is accreditied and recognized by the Bar Association. It was a bit frustrating because they wouldn't talk to me on the phone about it, but told me that I have to schedule an appt, which I did...for next week. But I want to know now! :)

Anyway...the pending issue left is figuring out how to pay for it. Assuming that ARC is actually as cheap as I seem to think it is, it's still several thousand dollars that I don't have lying around. And unfortunately, because I already have a Bachelor's degree, I don't qualify for Pell Grants. Grrr. I need scholarships. So hopefully I'll be able to get some through the school.

It's a good thing that I don't need the certificate to work. But I want it. I keep praying that if this the right thing, then Heavenly Father will make a way for me to be able to go to school with going into debt for it. I can't afford student loans. (I talked to one school and they said with my income, that it would probably be about $150-200/month! Eek!!)

I'm sure it will all work out...even if that means that I don't go back to school...which would be sad, but okay.

I mean, what kind person goes to school because they WANT to?

Me, that's who. I love school. I love learning. I love being able to apply what I learn to real life.

Yeah, I'm crazy. And I like it. :)

hahaha!