How to pay for education for advancement.

[sailawaygrl]

I have a job and I am trying and succeeding fairly well at working as many hours as possible. My job is a (mostly) sitting office position with a lot of responsibility. Unfortunately it doesn't pay very well. I would like to further my education, I have a HS Diploma and want to take online courses. I am hoping that by doing this when the job market begins to turn I can take advantage and be able to increase my pay and benefits also. My problem is I don't know where to find the money to pay for classes. Most of the online programs I know of are outrageous. Can anyone give me advice as to how to do this without loans? Maybe not even a degree but some way to further my learning and career prospects. I am good at my job but do not have a long history of this type of work. I feel I need some more training in different office software, communication skills and anything else to help me achieve my goal of better pay and a higher level job. I am 40 years old and feel it is not too late for me. I simply don't know where to start. Any advice or ideas would be greatly appreciated. Please give me anything you have to offer. I really want to improve myself.

Sandra

[kuntrygurl78]

I would start with your local community college. They are usually the most affordable. The community college where I live caters to adults. They have a variety of degrees that have a combination of on line and night and weekend classes. Good luck! Im 30 and Im taking a CNA class and working full time.:hi:

[Briza]

Google Pell Grant...you may or may not be eligible for it depending on your current and last year's salary/pay/income tax. I believe it is $1000/grant...can't remember if it is per year or per semester, or if it applies only to University or Junior Colleges and not general training or vocational school. But if you google it for sure you will get all of the details to see if you are eligible or can become eligible.
That's the only thing that comes to miind at the moment, but will post more if I think of anything!
Some communites, colleges, universities do offer continuing education classes for very low fees (Like $50) in computer work/technology/software/programs...I would highy suggest you call the universities and junior colleges in your area to find out how to receive notifications of continuing ed classes....either my snail mail or email....or the college or U's website.
Hope this is of some help!!

[dg2901]

Call your local community college--or better yet pay them a visit. My husband took 2 classes a few years ago and qualified for lots of grants. The classes only cost us $50 (total combined for both classes) after the grants...had it not been for those it would have been a bit over $600. The financial dept will be more than willing to help you out any way they can---you'll be surprised at all the grants, etc that are out there waiting for you!

Good luck!
Diana

[sailawaygrl]

Thanks for the tips, I'm afraid I won't qualify or a pell grant, but will give it a try and look into any classes they may have for what I want to accomplish.Wish me luck!! This means a lot to me.

Sandra

[dg2901]

What makes you think you wont qualify? Dont be surprised at the assistance/grants/etc that are out there.

Good luck!
:)
Diana