Is Returning to School to Study Physics at 30 the Right Move?

[tkav1980]

Please bear with me, this may be long winded.

I graduated high school with an Academic scholarship to a decent university. I was not mature enough to handle living away at school and promptly failed out/dropped out. Currently I am a General Manager for 2 restaurants and just turned 30. I want to go back to school and pursue my Physics degree. I've read and reread every book on physics i could get my hands on that i can comprehend. Luckly I have a friend in a graduate program who is patiently helping me get through,"The Road to Reality", By Penrose. One way or another i have to get back into school.

It was suggested I enroll at a local community college and begin to relearn some basic math. Algebra, trig, pre calc...etc. I was thinking the best bet would be to get an A.S. form a local community college in Math then try to transfer to a better university.

I'm Basically fishing for suggestions or a point in the right direction. I Have enrolled to take an intro to algebra course, I don't know if i NEED this course but i figured it can't hurt.

Thank you.

 

[jmason52]

Actually, its a good idea on several fronts. It gets you used to thinking logically again, you can brush the rust off your math skills, and not least of all, it gives you a chance to establish good study habits and grades early. Also check with your CC on their local transfer programs. A lot of states have it set up so that most credits will transfer to 4-yr schools - where I live, I think its called "Stars" or some such.

I feel your pain with Penrose. I'm on my second reading of that particular book, hoping some will actually sink in this time. But its still tortuous. lol

 

[AMOgurl39]

You might be able to take more than just basic math classes at the local college. As jmason said, check on the transferability of the credit they offer, but you may be able to knock out a lot of coursework close to home and it will be much more affordable and you'll also be able to continue working your job(s) while you do so i.e. an easier transition out of "the real world" and back into the college mindset. You'll definitely want to set up an appointment with an adviser at the community college so that you can explain your personal situation in detail and get their advice on the best way to proceed.