By Nancy Lee

When I first considered going back to school, I was hesitant to go to BYU Idaho because I was older. (At the time, I was 26 maybe 27).  I also didn’t think there would be any way to afford to go back and there would be very few job opportunities. I liked having money and I really liked my jobs so I thought I would take an introduction to teaching class at the U so I could still continue to work.  But something didn’t feel right. Although I got an A in the class, I realized

I needed to go back to school full time! The setback was the U was too expensive to go full time.   I had many friends (tender mercies) telling me I should go to BYU Idaho.  I finally decided to apply and if I don’t get accepted, then that will be my answer I shouldn’t go. When I was accepted, I had all kinds of emotions going on at once. I was scared, I was excited, I was flattered.  I was also wishing that I wasn’t accepted, so I wouldn’t have to worry about leaving my jobs.   Little did I know, they accept everyone and their dog.  However, it has been the greatest decision I ever made.  I was really afraid to go back because I was feeling so self-conscious about my age.  But it hasn’t been that big of a deal so far.  People are actually surprised when I tell them my age. A lot of reaction such as, “You do not look like you are thirty!” “I would have never guessed.” My favorite one is, “You look great! I hope I look like you when I am your age.” Why thank you.

Being older also has some advantages.  People take you more seriously and you take school more seriously. I have learned a lot while at school and look forward to teaching my future students, implementing different lesson plans in my classroom.

I have met some awesome people there who have been tender mercies and became really good friends in my life. They have been like my second family, encouraging and inspiring me to keep going. I just finished my second year and have seven more months to go.  However, when I go back this year, I will be 31.  This could be a little more interesting since I will be over the age limit.  It also means I will probably have to find an older ward.  I have met a few other people my age and they have heard that there is an older ward; we just have to find out where.  Seven more months of being a nontraditional college student. It has gone by really fast. I am really going to miss BYU Idaho, but it is time to move on.