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Education for women matters

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Whether you're the type to sit at the teacher's feet or the type to be snoring in the back row during class, education matters. It's vital for career preparation, for your own personal growth, and for being a good parent.

Is it worth it for you to go back to school? Only you can answer that question, but if you've already decided that's what you want to do, congratulations! You're on your way.

There are plenty of studies to show that, on average, the more education you have, the bigger your earning potential. Not only that, but having an education benefits your family. But even if you're not the teacher's pet type, you have options.

First of all, there's more than one type of education. Even employers who demand nothing less than a master's degree from their applicants expect some type of real-world experience. Whether you've spent years with your nose in the books or not, few types of learning are more valuable than the kind you spend in doing. Reading library books, teaching others, and trying something new are all less-than-typical but effective ways of learning. Also, going to school part-time or online (here's one place to find free online classes), even if it's one class at a time, is an option for many whose responsibilities and/or finances make a regular school schedule impossible.

For most, it's easier to complete their educations before children come along. However, that doesn't mean it's impossible afterward. 

Career preparation matters when you've got a family to take care of, even if you thought (or think now) that you don't want to work outside the home. Food storage is great, but education is important in preparing for emergencies, too. There's nothing selfish about making sure your children are provided for and that they don't have to worry about whether or not you can pay the electric bill. And, while you're getting your degree, don't forget that in order to get a job, you also might need to establish a professional network, keep your resume updated, and get some experience, even if that experience comes from volunteer or church work.

Education can also enrich your life. Learning new things establishes a connection between you and the rest of the world, which helps you better understand who you are. If you're happier when you're learning, you'll be better able to handle your other obligations.

You'll also be better able to help your children learn. If you're educated, it's easier to introduce your kids to new ideas and help them understand concepts. They will be better prepared to start school and to reach high levels of achievement throughout their academic careers. When you children see your efforts to learn, they'll understand the value you place on education, and maybe (if you're lucky), they'll want to follow your example.

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