Day 21...

"What are you going to school for?"

Apparently, that's the million dollar question.  It's asked by most people that hear I am going back to college.  Some people stop there or say something like "Philosophy...really?!?!" A lot of people who haven't been to college go on to ask "What kind of job will you get with that?"

Until recently, I looked at college as a place to go if you want a good job.  A lot of people look at it through those eyes, as a way to have a leg up on the competition in the job market.  Something to get done with as soon as possible in order to get started with your "life." "What are you planning to do with a degree in ________?"  I have asked that very same questions to people starting college either fresh out of high school or non-traditional students who decide to go back.

To answer my own question:

I am going to learn something.  I am going to have my beliefs and views challenged.  I am going to be able to not only tolerate, but embrace people with differences.  I am going to utilize my brain in a way that I never have before. I am going to be uncomfortable and grow through that discomfort, becoming a stronger person.

I am going to be a role model for my children.  Teaching them that being static may not be enough for them and that leading an ever-changing life is OK.  So what if it wasn't part of the initial plan.  Plans and people change.  Don't be afraid to change your mind.  Shake things up!  Even if people don't understand or if they don't support you "rocking the boat."  Do what feels right to you, not what is safe or understood by the masses.

I believe this UWP experience is going to change me.  It will be uncomfortable for some, maybe even unacceptable for those who don't understand, but I know deep down it is right.

Hopefully, I won't be the only one who learns something.