Why Continued Education Doesn’t Have to Mean Going Back to School

Being a student doesn’t necessarily mean you have to be enrolled in university. Even if you don’t have a structured curriculum, there are countless opportunities to learn about subjects that interest you. We are in a unique period of history where we have all the information we could possibly want at our fingertips. It’s time to use that to your advantage and be a lifelong student in this world.

Illustration by Carley Uys

When I thought this pandemic was going to be ‘two weeks off of work to flatten the curve’, I partied with my roommates and didn’t think twice about how I was spending my time. I binged numerous series as the two weeks drifted to two months and scoffed at my friend who was filling up her days exploring her interests. Now a year later, I can see why she was so passionate about learning new things and spending her time wisely. Don’t get me wrong, I still love my series and I think it’s important to find time to rest and relax. However now I find myself more curious than ever and using my free time to expand my skills.

Learning Languages

This is one of my favorites, as there are countless benefits to learning a new language. It helps you gain more empathy as you learn the ins-and-outs of another culture and way of life. You can communicate with people who don't speak your mother tongue, which I have found to be incredibly empowering. Some of the most influential people in my life don't speak more than five phrases in English, and I would have never formed these relationships had I not stepped out of my comfort zone and learned Spanish. Not to mention, it improves brain function and memory and helps you better understand your own language. It expands your world in so many ways (and once we can get back to traveling it will help you immensely with that too). The best part is, you don’t need to enroll in language school or university classes to learn the language of your choice. . There are myriad resources at your disposal to go at your own pace, including podcasts (Coffee Break is my personal go-to), YouTube videos, iTalki, and so many affordable apps and programs. If you’ve been curious about learning another language but didn’t know where to begin, this is your sign to start today - you never know which doors it could open for you in the future.

Online Platforms

Whether you’re curious about personal development and wellness, building upon your current degree or career or a passion project, I guarantee there is someone out there teaching your subject of interest. You don’t have to spend thousands of dollars, either. Websites like Masterclass (I’m sure you’ve seen the ads) make knowledge from respected individuals who have dominated their field of interest widely accessible. Mindvalley focuses more on spirituality and growth, and offers free webinars that allow you to explore the topic before diving in head first. Udemy often has flash sales on their individual classes at affordable prices, ranging from online marketing to interpersonal communication skills to gaming design. Skillshare helps you hone in your technical and creative skills - the list goes on and on. Making small investments in your personal growth and career can only benefit you, and your future self will thank you for it.

Connect With Friends

Don’t worry if the idea of learning new things outside of a structured university class intimidates you. Talk with your friends about your passions, and you might discover that you have similar interests. If you enroll in an online class or decide to study something new with someone else, it can help you feel more motivated. You’ll have someone to hold you accountable, and you can share your knowledge together as you learn.

Start by tapping into what you’re drawn to and what excites you - these topics call to you for a reason. Something that seems arbitrary that piques your excitement may come in handy in your career someday in an unexpected way. Your new-found knowledge may spark a passion for something you hadn't previously explored, and could set you on a whole new career path. Or you could find a new hobby that brings you joy and brings a little balance to your life. As the famous B.B. King quote says, “The beautiful thing about learning is nobody can take it away from you.”