<p>I worked 14 years after college, was a stay-at-home mom, then went back to NW’s adult education and got a certificate in accounting one course at a time for a few years. I then went through a few years of part-time work in related areas and have now worked for the same company for almost 7 years. I didn’t need to get an additional degree (it’s like a second bachelors degree) but didn’t want to return to the same kind of work as pre-kid. It really gave me a sense of accomplishment. Parenting - never before had I failed to accomplish goals so often yet had to continue to try. It was a great feeling to say “I got an A! I’m actually still smart! My brain still works!” And I do want to take classes just for pleasure down the road. Maybe ancient history, maybe cooking, maybe stained glass, maybe romantic literature (I feel like I’m becoming an expert on that). College towns have become prime retirement living and this is one major reason - the ability to continue learning.</p>