Laid Off Workers Go Back to School

A picture of July 2009: unemployment sits at 9.5% and is growing. Full-time workers are being asked to work part-time or take unpaid leave. The depreciation of the economy is expected to linger for several years and stain the future to come.

What are laid off, part-time, and unpaid-leave workers doing with the spare time on their hands? Going back to school.

Hiring businesses look for several things in potential candidates, including:

• Previous work experience
• References that will back up work ethic and experience
• Quirks that make the resume stand out, like volunteer work, additional languages, internships, or studying abroad
• Educational level

Sometimes, even if the resume has 20 years of experience attached to it, the 'piece of paper' is the make-or-break point. This has caused online colleges, community colleges, and traditional four-year universities to brim with new students that are not the stereotypical high school graduates, but middle-aged workers coming back to school to match the educational level demanded by their future employer.

Going back to school under economic stress, however, does not have to feel like a goal-to-meet-an-end experience. While heading back to school, instead of only focusing on achieving that needed degree, participate in the other benefits-and memories-college has to offer:

• Make friends and network. These connections are rewarding and will aid you in the future.
• Take an elective on a subject you have always wanted to learn and know you will enjoy.
• Explore new industries and business possibilities beyond your previous job.

Economic crisis usually means financial aid, so make sure to look into all the financial aid options at your disposal as well. There are scholarships available specifically for workers returning to school and IBR to help repay your student loan debt when you finish your education.