Becoming a student in your 40’s is OK! You’re never to old to learn.

Since the age of fifteen, I have had a keen obsession for all things forensics, death & everything dark & twisty. My Dad called it “a phase”, but oh how wrong he was. I am creepily curious by nature and after sadly, surpressing that part of myself, for the guts of 25yrs {due to bullying and being a parent etc} I’ve finally taken that pin out. I’m finally, without shame, letting my true self shine and I don’t care who has an issue with it.

I have always wanted to be a Forensics Pathologist. Always. It has been my one constant of career choice since I was fifteen years old. There was that stint of me wishing to be a Vet for a time, which is why I studied Animal Science, but that phase passed because I realised animals weren’t as good to cut open as humans. Creepily curious, remember?

Becoming a student again in my forties

I find the human body fascinating because it is nothing short of a evolutionary marvel. A functioning, fleshy, blood-filled machine with an independant mind that can see, smell, touch and be filled with wonder. It has organ systems that all work together, in one way or another to keep you alive. It is a truly fascinating specimen and that is why I have decided to be a student again.

I recently signed up with the Centre of Excellence to gain an Anatomy & Physiology Diploma, to hopefully become an Embalmer. Almost like starting Mortuary School, in a sense, which I think is just amazing. And as I sit here typing this, I finished Part One of Module One this morning and I already know that stopping at the Anatomy & Physiology diploma won’t be enough for me. I am already thinking about going on to gain a diploma or a degree in Forensics to become an Autotopsy Technician. But I guess the ball has to start rolling from somewhere, right?

And even though me re-pushing that ball to roll, took 25yrs because I put everything and everyone before my own life goals. That’s OK. Life is what it is. I am just grateful that I am in a position to pick up the books again! And let’s face it, it is pretty darn exciting, too. 

Finding time to study as a full time worker & parent

I will be honest, it’s not easy. As a busy Mum and working full time, with three children at home, I already have a lot of plates spinning. Not to mention doing management courses and NVQ’s to progress my hospitality career on top of that. Finding that work-life balance is not easy! But do you know what? This is why I chose a student course that I could work on in my own time.

Being able to study for 30 minutes here, or an hour there, makes all the difference. I think if this course had specific deadlines and places to be at particular times, it would not be possible for me. And so far, I seem to be juggling it all OK, but I guess that is the beauty of being able to do a diploma on my own time and terms.

There is no age limit on learning!

There truly isn’t a limit on learning and I love that I have picked up where I left off all of those years ago. It is also a good mindset to display to my children too because with the pressure on their shoulders nowadays with school, sixth form, university etc. It is heavy! And can weigh alot on their minds too. But them knowing that you can take that year or so off if you wish to find yourself, figure out your life goals, plans, hopes and dreams. And to know that it is OK and good to do what is right for you.

Twenty years ago {and some change} I became a Mum. My life goals, hopes and personal plans went on hold and I was OK with that. I did try throughout the years to delve into this course and that, but with two young sons to care for, it just was not possible. Regardless of how much tenancity or determination I had. But now? I think I have the time to hand to work on something for myself now and for that journey, I am quite excited.

Have you ever put a dream on hold? Would you become a student again?