During the spring general conference last year, I happened to see something about the BYU Pathways Worldwide program. This was nothing new, as I had heard about it before, usually during conference also. For some reason, this time it really struck me. I have wanted to get back into school for quite some time, but the thought was always so overwhelming. When would I find the time and the money? I have a full-time job and five kids who all are getting into their own various activities. Was I smart enough to go back to school?
YOU CAN DO THIS!
As all these negative thoughts went through my mind, the thought came to my head that I could do this, and this was the right time. I immediately felt a calming sensation and more confidence in my ability to go back to school than I ever had before. I started researching the program and was so excited to learn more. I think I surprised Jessica when I texted her and told her that I wanted to go back to school and that BYU Pathways was the route I wanted to take. Ever since I made the decision to go back to school, I have never doubted my potential to finish with a degree.
GETTING BACK IN THE SADDLE.
I was very pleasantly surprised that as part of Pathways, they have the Connect program, which allows adults who have not been in school for a while to comfortably slide back into things. I definitely was not ready to go full speed yet. The connect program lasts for one year, and you take refresher-type classes along with religion classes. Each week we met with an assigned group, led by a missionary couple, the Brennings. This group was my lifesaver throughout the first year. Many of us came from similar situations and it was such a comfort to have a group that was experiencing the process together. I really never would have been able to get through things as well as I did without them.
As I got deeper into my classes, I really felt a great sense of accomplishment. I hadn't done this in almost twenty years, and I felt more comfortable doing it now than I ever did before. For some odd reason, it felt easier to learn new things as an adult than it did as a youth. I have really enjoyed the classes that I have been able to take, and the things I have learned.
THE LONG ROAD AHEAD.
I am now working on my second year of the program. This time, we are going at it alone, without our pathways group. I have been taking classes that will count toward a social media marketing certificate, which have been really interesting. It is so interesting to learn new things about something that we use every day, like social media. I have a long path ahead of me, but I am excited to see where it takes me, and for the adventures, I will surely have along the way!
