[splitimage]

I finally was able to download a copy of my timetable for the fall semester - I'm going back to school, full time to retrain after being mostly unemployed for 2 years.

I have to take 6 classes, 3 hours each. These are all compressed into classes from 4-10 pm, Tues., Wed., and Thurs. I have no idea how I'm supposed to get through 6 hours of classes with no dinner break.

The only upside I can see from this schedule, is it will allow me to participate in the Seeking Safety program at my psych hospital. Seeking Safety is a program for people with PTSD and Substance Abuse Problems. I've wanted to do it for a few years, but this is the first time it's worked out for me.

I'll also be able to continue with my aftercare in my rehab, although I'll have to move from my current afternoon group to a morning group. But I'm relieved that I'll be able to keep going to aftercare.

The biggest downside for me, is it means that I'm going to have to change my AA homegroup which really upsets me, as I've been a member there for 3 years, and it's my favourite meeting in Toronto. I have a pretty good idea of where I'll wind up as there's a meeting Sat. evening just down the street from St. Clare's.

I know when my brother here's my schedule, he's going to push me to get a part-time job, but I honestly don't think I can handle working beyond my part time teaching and 18 hours of classes.

I also feel it's important for me to keep my focus on recovery activities because if I don't get a solid sober base, I'm never going to be able to hold down a full time job.

Just feeling a little overwhelmed at the upcoming semester.

splitimage

what classes are you going to be taking?

that is good you got your skedule

[Vibe]

I bring meals/snacks to long classes when I know I'm not going to get a decent break. So long as it's not a lab, that should help. Eating right before and after sometimes works too.

If you don't think you can take on a second job along with your teaching and school, then I wouldn't do it. Is there some way your brother can force your hand on this, or is he just pushy and invasive? If he's that bad, then I'd be tempted to just not tell him.

It sounds like you're doing quite a bit of planning around your schedule already. The thing with your AA group sucks. I guess the upside is that it's only a sure thing for 3.5 months and after that you might be able to go back. Maybe after things get sorted a little better, it won't feel quite so overwhelming? Definitely keep that time in for yourself. It sounds important to you managing things. Part of dealing with high stress and a lot of responsibility is taking time out for yourself.

[Oxidopamine]

I had several classes during the evening from 5-9 or 6-9 pm. I either brought an extra sandwich or sub with me, or left-overs from dinner. The professors didn't care if people ate during the classes because at that time of the day it's understandable, as long as there wasn't a lot of loud crumpling while the lecture was still going on. Sometimes they would take longer to give the breaks and my stomach would growl, so I'd just eat right then and there.

I assume you're going to UofT, so if you haven't taken a stroll through there, you should because it's a maze. See how far your lecture halls are from cafeterias and if they're too far, then pack some extra food. I know a sandwich or sub isn't that fabulous for dinner but it's what you gotta do. Some days I had noodles with tomato meat sauce and garlic bread, other days just a plain sandwich.

In my last years, I did a lot of research in labs and again I brought food, however, I would eat outside the lab before it began. For several labs, we had to come in at our own time in addition to the scheduled time, so I'd be sure to have a large meal before then. Each time you leave the lab though, make sure your take off your gloves, mask, and anything else, although no need to take off the lab coat.

If you're already doing part-time paid teaching, then I don't see why your brother would want you to get another job.

[InTheShadows]

You are very smart. Don't let anybody divert you from the path of recovery. It is the same for my mental health. If I am not mentally well I can't function to work. Your recovery is very very important.

~Shady~

[gma45]

Sounds like you have a good plan. Don't let anything mess with your sobriety without that we have nothing! I wish you well splitimage.

[CastlesInTheAir]

are you just returning to school??? Try not to overwhelm yourself, I made this mistake and totally flopped an entire semester....if you can you may want to only take 3 classes or so......6 seems like alot for just returning......sucks if you HAVe too........make sure you use your resources for tutors, and stay organized....

hugs

lots of luck

[splitimage]

Thanks for the replies everybody. Tricaridch - Unfortunately I have no option over the number of courses I take - it's a post graduate certificate in Fraud Examination and Forensic Accounting and everyone has to take the same 12 classes - 6 per semester. I know it's a heavy load and wish I could ease into it, but that doesn't work with this program.

As for my brother and the part time job thing it's just that he's trying to be helpful but he doesn't understand my challenges or get why I can't stay sober. He's a very successful high acheiving workaholic who also has a drinking problem except it doesn't interfere in his life the way mine did. He thinks the key thing is I should be working no matter what. He can't force me obviously but he's very clear in his position. When I told him I was contemplating giving up the teaching so that I could just focus on school he was totally opposed and said it was very important that I can be seen to be working continuously. And I know he's right it's just going to be a challenge.

I'm going to talk to staff on Mon. to see if I can get a packed lunch to take with me to class. It'll be a bit of a drag living on sandwiches for 3 days a week, but I can do it, and if I have to eat in class, I will. I don't imagine it'll be a problem, because everyone knows we have back to back classes.

I'm not going to U of Toronto, I'm going to Seneca College, which thankfully is a lot closer to where I'm living than U of T is. It'll be a bit different for me going to a college rather than a university. I've taken college classes before, and in my experience they were a lot more hands on and actually more work, than the university classes were. And it's really important to me to do well, both so that I'll have a better chance of getting a job, but also to boost my confidence which will help with job hunting.

And GMA you're right, I've got to protect my sobriety at all costs. I kind of feel like this is my last shot at it, because I don't think I'd be able to come back from another relapse, which is why I want to make ongoing aftercare and seeking safety and therapy priorities as well.

I'm just going to have to be super organized, in order to get everything done.

splitimage

[Nicks_Nose]

I have much admiration for you split. One day at a time. Be proud and self supportive in your decisions and convictions. I respect you lots for what you are doing.

[Perna]

Originally Posted by splitimage

I have to take 6 classes, 3 hours each. These are all compressed into classes from 4-10 pm, Tues., Wed., and Thurs. I have no idea how I'm supposed to get through 6 hours of classes with no dinner break.

Heck, I was thinking about the out-of-class/homework! When are you going to be able to do that with the other recovery activities you are doing too?

I imagine there will be 10-15 minute breaks each hour; you'll just have to pack good/easy snacks?

That's great you have your schedule going though and can plan some. Too bad you have to leave your favorite/home recovery group. Maybe you can get back to that one after the classes?