Again? Why I’m Returning to School for a Second Bachelor’s Degree

Overlapping Voices in the Churning Nebula of My Eclectic Consiousness

Across space and time, from ancient myths to modern paradigms, where stardust meets story and the echoes entwine.

In May 2024, I accomplished something deeply personal and long overdue. I graduated from the University of North Texas (UNT) with a Bachelor of Arts in English, specializing in Creative Writing. This was not just the completion of coursework and credit hours. It was the fulfillment of a dream that had lingered quietly for years. Like many people, life had taken me in different directions, and the opportunity to earn that degree had once seemed like a closed door. It was more than a celebration when it was official; it was the final page in a chapter of my life that had been left unfinished for far too long. I had proven that it is never too late to return to a dream and see it through to completion.

That experience left me with a deep sense of closure, but it also stirred a new and unexpected question. What was I supposed to do after finishing something that had long been left undone? Was this the end of my academic journey, or just another milestone along a larger path? The satisfaction of completing my English degree was real and meaningful, but it awakened a desire for more learning, more exploration, and a new purpose. As 2025 approached, I once again contemplated what education and growth could look like in this next chapter of my life.

The Call to Continue Learning

As 2025 began, a new question emerged in my mind. Having achieved the goal of earning my degree in English, I wondered, what is next? I thought about my passions and interests and how I wanted to continue growing personally and intellectually. Many suggested that graduate school might be the logical next step. A Master of Arts in Creative Writing would seem a natural progression from my first degree, which is the advanced degree I aim for. However, the more I reflected, the more I realized that while I love writing, I discovered another far too enticing path.

Instead, I thought about what truly excites me. Like a cat, I am prone to endless stirs of curiosity. I pondered what skills and knowledge could open new doors for career opportunities. In this joy of learning, I discovered a path of multiple disciplines into one extraordinary vision. That reflection led me to the field of history, particularly American history, focusing on military events, as an homage to my service days, and their broader geographic context. History has always intrigued me, not as a collection of dates and facts, but as the highway of dynamic storytelling of the human experience.

Why I Chose History

My decision to pursue a second Bachelor’s degree in History is grounded in two motivations. The first is a significant project I have conceptualized for some time, drawing heavily on historical research and analysis. I am not ready to share the details of that project yet, but it will require the kind of deep understanding and academic rigor that only formal study can provide. In simpler words, it will provide additional legitimacy to the goals I am working towards.

The second reason is simpler and perhaps even more critical. I am returning to study history because it is fun. It is a subject that fascinates me and enriches my understanding of the world. This time, my academic pursuit is not driven by necessity or a desire to fill a gap in my resume. Instead, it is powered by passion and the excitement of exploring new ideas and perspectives.

A Tempting Third Path: Geography

As I planned my return to UNT, another possibility presented itself. Geography has always complemented my interest in history. Understanding the spatial relationships between events, places, and people's movements adds an essential layer of insight. Initially, I considered pursuing a full third Bachelor’s degree in Geography. Combining history and geography to create a multidisciplinary approach to understanding the past was very appealing.

However, after weighing time and energy demands, I have likely settled on minoring in Geography instead. This compromise will allow me to deepen my geographic knowledge without overextending my academic commitments. The combination of History and Geography will provide a well-rounded foundation for my upcoming project and broader intellectual pursuits.

A Sneak Peek

The Challenges of Returning to College in My 50s

Returning to college in my early 50s has not been without its challenges. Higher education today differs significantly from when I first set foot on a university campus in 2001. Technology now plays a central role in almost every aspect of learning. From online registration and digital classrooms to research databases and collaborative platforms, mastering these tools requires significant adjustment.

Another challenge is balancing academic responsibilities with the realities of adult life. Unlike many younger students, I have career obligations, financial responsibilities, and personal commitments that demand my attention. Time management has become a critical skill that requires careful planning and discipline to ensure that no area of my life suffers neglect.

Additionally, there is the social dynamic to consider. Being significantly older than most of my classmates means that I approach learning from a different perspective. At times, it can feel isolating. However, I have found that younger students often appreciate the life experience and insights that older learners bring to discussions. Many older students report that their unique experiences allow them to contribute meaningfully to classroom dialogue and group projects.¹

The Rewards of Lifelong Learning

Despite these challenges, the rewards have far outweighed the difficulties. One of the most significant benefits has been the clarity of purpose that comes with age. I am not attending college because it is expected of me, or because I am unsure what to do next. I am here because I genuinely want to learn. That intrinsic motivation has made me more engaged and focused than I ever was in my younger years.

Another reward has been connecting with a new generation of students and faculty. Engaging in academic discussions and collaborative projects has broadened my perspectives and kept me intellectually agile. Older students often serve as role models in the classroom, demonstrating resilience and dedication that can inspire younger peers.²

Furthermore, continued education later in life can have positive cognitive benefits, helping to maintain mental sharpness and adaptability.³ For me, these benefits are not just theoretical. I have felt the difference in my critical thinking, writing, and analytical skills.

A Modern Campus Experience

The UNT campus has evolved significantly since my first visit. New facilities, expanded resources, and a diverse student body have created a vibrant learning environment. UNT has embraced innovation while maintaining a commitment to academic excellence. I have found support systems for nontraditional students like myself, including advising services tailored to adult learners and flexible class schedules that accommodate working students.

Many universities are more accommodating than ever, recognizing adult learners' value and challenges.⁴ My experience at UNT has certainly reflected that trend.

The Joy of Starting Again

Yesterday, I officially made my return by enrolling in my second Bachelor of Arts program. It was a moment filled with excitement and a sense of purpose. This new chapter is not about recapturing youth or reliving past experiences. It is about moving forward with intention and curiosity. It is about embracing the idea that learning does not have an expiration date.

I am under no illusions that this path will be easy. There will be late nights, demanding assignments, and moments of doubt. But there will also be discovery, growth, and the satisfaction of pursuing something that truly matters to me.

Conclusion

Returning to college for a second undergraduate degree is not just continuing my education. It is a statement about who I am and what I value. It reflects my belief in lifelong learning, my curiosity about the world, and my desire to keep pushing boundaries.

As I step into the classroom again next Monday, I am not just chasing academic credits. I am seeking understanding, connection, and the joy that comes from exploring new ideas. The story is far from over. In many ways, it is just beginning.

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Notes

1. Maryville University, "Going Back to School at 50: Little Known Benefits of a College Education," Maryville University, https://online.maryville.edu/blog/going-back-to-school-at-50-little-known-benefits-of-a-college-education/.

2. "10 Tips for Going Back to School at 50," Western Governors University, https://www.wgu.edu/blog/10-tips-for-going-back-school-at-502305.html.

3. "Is 50 Too Old to Go Back to College?" BestColleges, https://www.bestcolleges.com/ask-an-advisor/is-50-too-old-to-go-back-to-college/.

4. "The Challenges and Advantages of Being an Older College Student," IvyWise, https://www.ivywise.com/blog/fitting-in-as-an-older-college-student/.