I went back to school to complete my BA at age 40, after a 22-year hiatus.

I received scholarships for my undegraduate years from American Association of University Women as part of a women-in-transition type program.

I went onto get my MA and PhD, so I didn't graduate until I was 47. Teaching and research assistantships and student loans paid for this.

Education changed my life. It wasn't just a matter of learning new things, but of doors opening different ways of being. The "collegial" atmosphere completely changed by ability to accept criticism of my writing. I can still be stubborn, but at least I see that every input need not be interpreted in a solely negative light, and growth is possible.

I learned to be more patient. I'd been used to working in the fast-paced environment of newsrooms where everyone is really smart and thinks quickly. I grew to have enormous respect for students who are not on that wavelength and have to work very, very hard to grasp things that others take for granted.

Unfortunately, my education did not bring the job stability I'd hoped for. This is a huge disappointment.