re: The Decision To Return For BSME At 30

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I have been thinking, researching, praying, debating internally for a long time now about returning to school (online) for a BSME. As a 30 year old with a one year old child and supporting wife, I know I can do this, but the question is how much time per week will I sacrifice? I’m looking to take 3 classes a semester. Working 40 hours a week with 3 classes a semester, will I miss out on six-seven years of my son’s life? For those who have been there, am I looking at no life until this is done, or would I be able to have one day on the weekends for the family if I manage my time?

Thanks in advance, this board has been very helpful in many ways. I know there are some Mechanical Engineer graduates here that can share their experience.

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I did Civil starting at 27 while working full time and getting married the first semester. By the time i finished at 32, I had young boys. I built a house during second semester an I did a lot of the work. I would go to work at 6, would leave for classes I had during the day, go back until 6 or so at night. Worked on Saturdays when needed to get my work done. When building, I would go work at the house until 11 or so and then go sleep.

You can do it and its not that bad. You have to prioritize and you need to take summer courses. Dont make it take 6-7 years, take 12 hours a semester and 3 in each intersession.

It can be done, I did it. Pay attention in class and take good notes. review the notes after each class.

Its really not that hard if you treat it like a second full time job. If you go in and half arse it, its going to eat you alive and you will flunk out by the time you reach statics or dynamics. Fluids and thermo will destroy you. Treat it like a second job and you will smoke those class.

Choice is yours.