After divorce, former spouses need to reassess their lives. Marriage has not worked and it is now time to build new, separate lives. In the process of starting over, divorcees often reexamine their careers as well. Women, for example, who have passed up careers to raise children and be home-makers, may be compelled to enter or reenter the workforce. Similarly, men who have held jobs they found unsatisfying solely to support their families may decide to pursue new careers that better match their interests. In either case, going back to school is often the first step toward a new career. Divorcees may gain the skills required for new employment by attending a community college, four-year university, or a vocational program.
Going back to school can certainly be a challenge. Playing the role of a student again can be an adjustment.
It is also difficult to balance parenting and job responsibilities with schoolwork. For example, it would be hard to care for children while going to school; and many work schedules do not mesh nicely with class schedules. These hurdles make it imperative that divorcees carefully consider their decision to go back to school. Those who rush forward without careful consideration can find themselves stressed out and struggling with their new educational obligations.
For those who have taken time to consider it, though, returning to school can be highly beneficial in the aftermath of a divorce. School offers the knowledge and credentials needed to reenter the workforce, pursue a new career, or reach new heights in an existing job.