--- title: "Going Back to School at 57: My Journey Towards a MAster's" description: Returning to school at 57 for an MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, I share my journey, challenges, and triumphs, proving it's never too late to pursue your passion. image: https://tranceformyou.com/hubfs/DSC_0390.jpeg --- [Skip to content](https://tranceformyou.com/blog/going-back-to-school-at-57-my-journey-toward-an-ms-in-clinical-mental-health-counseling#main-content) [![Logo_Horizontal_Color-Web](https://tranceformyou.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Logo_Horizontal_Color-Web.png?width=2598&height=500&name=Logo_Horizontal_Color-Web.png) ![Logo_Horizontal_Color-Web](https://tranceformyou.com/hubfs/Logo_Horizontal_Color-Web.svg)](https://tranceformyou.com) [Get Started](https://tranceformyou.com/schedule-consultation-virtual) - [About Us](https://tranceformyou.com/about-us) - [RTT Information](https://tranceformyou.com/rtt) - [Trauma Recovery](https://tranceformyou.com/trauma-recovery-coaching) - [Pricing](https://tranceformyou.com/pricing) - [FAQs](https://tranceformyou.com/faqs) - [Blog](https://tranceformyou.com/blog) - [Contact](https://tranceformyou.com/contact) ###### 6 min read # Going Back to School at 57: My Journey Towards a MAster's By: [Deborah Flanders Rogers](https://tranceformyou.com/blog/author/deborah-flanders-rogers) on Mar 2, 2025 8:00:00 AM [Overcoming Your Comfort Zone](https://tranceformyou.com/blog/tag/overcoming-your-comfort-zone) [going back to school](https://tranceformyou.com/blog/tag/going-back-to-school) [thinking too late to change](https://tranceformyou.com/blog/tag/thinking-too-late-to-change) ![Featured Image](https://tranceformyou.com/hubfs/DSC_0390.jpeg) At 57, I boldly decided to return to school and pursue a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I'm **halfway through the program**, maintaining a **4.0 GPA**, and working toward securing an **internship**—one of the final steps before graduation. My counseling journey wasn't just a career change but deeply personal. **Therapy helped me through some of the most challenging times in my life**, and now, I want to **pass that gift on to others**. I know firsthand the power of a compassionate, skilled counselor, and I hope to be that person for someone else. But going back to school in my late 50s hasn't been without its challenges. If you're considering a similar path, I want to share the **pros, cons, and lessons learned**. #### The Pros of Going Back to School at 57 ### 1. **Life Experience is an Asset** At this stage in life, I bring more than just academic knowledge—I bring **lived experience**. I've faced hardships, navigated transitions, and learned resilience. This gives me a **depth of empathy and insight** that will help me connect with clients meaningfully. ### 2. **Motivation and Focus** I'm not doing this because I have to; I'm doing it because I **want to**. Every class, discussion, and assignment matters because I'm **invested in becoming my best counselor**. ### 3. **Academic Success** When I started, I wondered if I could keep up academically. Now, with a **4.0 GPA**, I've proven that I cannot only keep up but also excel. My ability to **manage time, stay disciplined, and engage deeply with the material** has been a considerable advantage. ### 4. **Flexible Online Learning** Studying online has enabled me to learn on my own while managing other responsibilities. I don't have to **relocate or disrupt my life**, which makes earning my degree **far more accessible**. ### 5. **Giving Back in a Meaningful Way** Counseling is more than just a career for me—it's a **calling**. Therapy changed my life, and I want to **pay it forward** by helping others find healing and growth. #### The Cons of Going Back to School at 57 ### 1. **Internship Challenges** Finding an internship has been one of the biggest hurdles. Many placements prefer younger students or those with prior clinical experience. I've had to **advocate for myself, network, and persist** in finding opportunities. ### 2. **Adapting to Technology** Online learning is convenient but also means adapting to **new platforms, virtual discussions, and digital tools**. While I'm comfortable with technology, there is still a learning curve. ### 3. **Balancing Energy Levels** Let's be honest—**graduate school is demanding**. Sometimes, keeping up with coursework, assignments, and practicum requirements is exhausting. **Self-care is essential** to avoid burnout. ### 4. **Imposter Syndrome** Despite my success, I've had moments of doubt. Do I belong here? Will I be taken seriously in a field where many professionals start much younger? But I remind myself that **my life experience and dedication are assets, not limitations**. ### 5. **The Financial Factor** Graduate school is an investment. I've had to **plan carefully** for tuition, books, and internship expenses. But this is a **worthwhile investment in my future and the people I will help**. #### Lessons Learned Along the Way - **You're never too old to start something new.** My age is an **advantage**, not a barrier. My wisdom and experience will make me a **more assertive, more compassionate counselor**. - **Advocacy is key.** Securing an internship requires **networking, persistence, and confidence**. I've had to **assert my value and seek opportunities** that might not be immediately obvious. - **Self-care isn't optional.** Balancing graduate school with life requires **intentional rest, setting boundaries, and managing stress effectively**. - **Learning is a lifelong journey.** Every class, discussion, and experience adds to my academic, personal, and professional growth. #### Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It? Absolutely. **Returning to school at 57 has been one of my life's most challenging and rewarding decisions.** There have been obstacles, but the personal and professional **growth** I've experienced has been **invaluable**. Therapy helped me, and now, I get to **help others**. That makes every late-night study session, every problematic assignment, and every challenge **worth it**. If you're considering making a similar leap, **go for it**. The world needs more counselors who understand life deeply—**including those who took the scenic route to get here**. Now, on to securing that **internship!** ##### Are you thinking about a career change later in life? I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences! Drop a comment below. - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) ## [The Psychology Behind Watching Reality TV Unraveled](https://tranceformyou.com/blog/the-psychology-behind-watching-reality-tv-unraveled) Uncover the fascinating psychological impact of indulging in reality TV shows and why they... ## [Unraveling the Link: Trauma and Auto-Immune Disease](https://tranceformyou.com/blog/unraveling-the-link-trauma-and-auto-immune-disease) Discover the intricate connection between trauma and the development of auto-immune diseases in... ## [Healthy Social Activities for July 4th](https://tranceformyou.com/blog/healthy-social-activities-for-july-4th) Looking to celebrate July 4th in a healthy and social way? 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