Higher education now attracts new age bracket
Issue date: 6/21/09 Section: Student Life
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The survey, commissioned by the Career Colleges Association, reports that as a result of the recession, more than two of every three Americans are either currently taking steps, or thinking of taking steps to revamp their professional lives. Many view unemployment as an opportunity to make themselves more competitive or to pursue a long-standing passion by going back to school.
The survey reports that many Americans are "reinventing" themselves within their work lives. In fact, 38 percent of the survey participants expressed an interest in higher education. Many were interested in improving their credentials.
Patrick Wehner, director of MBA and bachelor's in business and accounting programs at Everest University in Tampa, Fla. - a career-training college offering programs in business, allied health and criminal justice - explains that for many students, going back to school is crucial to career advancement. Wehner adds that for many, the economic recession presents a perfect opportunity to go back to school.
"Many students come to us saying that they found that in tough job markets, their current credentials aren't passing the test. They come to us to get the education they need for careers with real potential for advancement," said Wehner. Everest University offers a full range of degree options - from associates to bachelor's and MBAs. "They understand that while it may require a commitment of time and money, their decision to go back to school pays off in the end," he added.
The CCA survey also reports that 32 percent of those interested in higher education said that they were not trying to make themselves more competitive, but were doing so in order to pursue a long-standing passion or an intellectual interest. Forty-three percent of 25 to 34 year olds are considering higher education for this reason, and three out of 10 adults age 55 to 64 are also interested in changing careers or pursuing a long-held passion through higher education.
Everest College, one of the premier career-oriented educational institutions in the country, reports a rise in applications during the economic downturn.
"I always tell prospective students that if you aren't happy with your professional life, you are not stuck, you can do something about it," said Jae Lee, regional vice president of admissions for 10 Everest College campus locations throughout Washington and Oregon. "In fact, if you have been laid off or are worried about job security, this economic recession might be the perfect time to make the decision to get the career you really want."
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