Dealing with Personal Change

This is a life-changing step. If you have a family, spouse, or partner, you will need to take a look at the changes ahead together.

Make sure everyone supports your decision to pursue a degree and understands how the family’s lifestyle will change:

• You will be very busy, with little free time.
• You are likely to have less money to spend.
• You will need to complete homework assignments, so you may be unavailable to your family even when you are home.

Some schools offer these organizations, and they can be valuable in assisting students with housing and other issues—many members have been through the transition already, so they can help you get oriented. You will develop a new network of friends in school, but your family will need a network, too.

If you are relocating and your spouse plans to continue working, your school placement advisors can offer suggestions on local search firms, temporary agencies, and other resources. Consider an on-campus job—as most schools have active temporary employment offices.

If you are relocating to a new area, get information from school admissions staff on the local cost of living. They can also tell you the best places to look for housing. You may want to live near other married students or students with children.

Few business schools offer on-campus room and board. If you plan to attend a school far from home, plan a trip to find a place to live. Your school’s admissions staff can recommend the best time to look for housing.