Going back in January vs. September

I started at a large state school in fall of 2015. I quickly became depressed and didn’t do well academically (I dropped two classes and failed another). I saw a counselor, who encouraged me to take time off to get in a better mental state before returning to school. My parents were against me leaving just because I was uncomfortable, but I required a surgery with a lengthy recovery time. I took Spring 2016 off and got a job after I was cleared to walk again. I took this semester (Fall 2016) off as well, since there was a chance I would need another surgery. I now know I don’t.

I would like to go back next semester if I can find a place to live and financially work it out, but I’m at a crossroads. I’ve succeeded at my job and my boss has expressed an interest in promoting me. Part of me really wants to go back to school, since I feel like I’ve been wasting time and I’m behind everyone else my age (including my friends from my hometown). I also feel the pressure from my friends and family to return to school, since they all expect me to get a degree. I feel like I’m no longer seen as a good role model because I took time off of school.

I could transfer to another location of the company I work for if I return to school, but my promotion would probably be delayed. I want to continue my education, but I’m afraid I’ll regret my decision since I was so unhappy when I was at school. I’m also afraid that if I wait until Fall 2017, I’ll just keep putting off school or fall even farther behind my peers.

I know this isn’t particularly clear, but I just need some advice about whether it would be better to return to school in January or September.

I think you might be a good candidate for community college. Ease yourself back into college and do it in your own time. There is no rush, and there is no need to feel you aren’t a role model for others. You need to focus on yourself. Starting as a spring transfer can be really difficult, and you might have a hard time transferring anyway becasue of your academic standing. It makes sense to keep working, go to CC and do well, then transfer into a four year college. No one will judge you, so take care of you.