When Faeryn first thought about returning to college, she had more questions than answers. Would she be able to keep up? Could she balance school with work and parenting? Would it be like the last time, when her educational journey didn’t go as planned?
Today, Faeryn is thriving. She’s made the Dean’s List, found her academic stride, and is well on her way to earning a degree in psychology. Her dream? To become a trauma-informed therapist for teens. And while the journey hasn’t been easy, it’s been transformational.
Taking the First Step Even When It’s Scary
Like many adult learners, Faeryn didn’t return to school because it was convenient. She did it because she felt a deep desire for a fulfilling career path. But the doubts were real. “I didn’t do well in school before,” she admitted. “I wasn’t sure I had what it took.”
That uncertainty is common among returning students. When you’ve been out of the classroom for years, it’s easy to wonder if you’ll remember how to study, write papers, or manage assignments. But as Faeryn discovered, you don’t have to do it all at once, and you don’t have to do it alone.
One Class at a Time, One Step at a Time
What made the difference for Faeryn? A manageable pace and consistent, personalized support.
Instead of diving into a full course load, she started with one class at a time which is something many adult learners find incredibly helpful. “The work isn’t easy,” she said, “but it’s manageable. Once I realized I could do it, it became easier. That surprised me.”
By focusing on one course at a time, Faeryn gave herself space to succeed. She didn’t just survive, she excelled.
Support That Changes Everything
Another game-changer was the guidance she received along the way. From navigating college systems to planning coursework around her life, Faeryn wasn’t left to figure it out alone. “Having someone there to guide me through the process and check in along the way helped me believe I could do it,” she shared.
At Operation Graduate, we know that support makes all the difference. That’s why our team works closely with each student to build a clear, customized plan that fits their goals and lifestyle.
Mindset Matters: “What If It Goes Right?”
One of the most powerful lessons from Faeryn’s story is her mindset shift. Instead of asking, “What if I fail?” she began asking, “What if it goes right?”
That small change opened the door to a world of possibilities. Her self-belief grew stronger with each assignment she completed and every challenge she overcame. Today, school isn’t a source of stress, it’s actually where she’s discovering her strengths.
Her advice to others? “If there’s even a small part of you thinking about going back to school, that means there’s a part of you that believes in yourself. Listen to it.”
Making It Work With Real Life
Of course, school didn’t replace the rest of Faeryn’s responsibilities. Like so many adult students, she juggles multiple roles. She’s a parent, employee, and student. But she’s found simple strategies to stay on track, like blocking off two days a week specifically for schoolwork.
Time management and intentional scheduling have helped her create structure and reduce overwhelm. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about making steady progress.
Reclaiming Your Future Starts Today
Faeryn’s story is a reminder that past experiences don’t define your future. With the right guidance, realistic pacing, and a mindset grounded in self-belief, anything is possible.
At Operation Graduate, we believe every adult deserves the chance to complete their education and pursue the life they envision. Like Faeryn, you have untapped potential, and we’re here to help you unlock it.
So if you’ve been thinking about going back to school, let Faeryn’s journey be your inspiration. Because if it’s possible for her, it’s possible for you too.
