How to Get Back Into School as an Empty-Nester

An empty room used to mean room for a child, but now it signifies a new stage in life. The empty next. Suddenly, your days that used to be filled with carpools and sack lunches are left vacant, with the time that could be used for anything. As Ginny Brzezinski put it, empty nesters need to “find me again.”

In this new season, many people find college to be a rewarding experience. In fact, going back to school was number one on Better After 50’s the list of ideas for adding fulfillment to the empty next. But going to school as an adult is different than starting college fresh out of high school.

If you have existing obligations that prevent you from enrolling with traditional students, or you’d rather avoid a Robert De Niro in The Intern situation, looking at a program for adults might be in your best interest. Many colleges, like SNU, have programs for adults, with classes taking place one night a week or entirely online.

Now that you have some time, look into degree programs that pique your interest or would help you land that promotion at work. This is your time to dedicate to yourself and become the best that you can be. After all, an empty room can make for a great study space.