I’m going back to school and am scared.

[u/Cursed_Cherub]

Hi, Mom. It’s Cherub. I feel like such a baby right now.

I’m going back to school starting Monday. I’m going to an adult school to study a subject I’m passionate about! But this’ll be my first time going to school full time in about two years

I’m scared, Mom.

I’m physically disabled and am scared people will pick on me for having a wheelchair. I’m scared I’m going to be unable to do this because of the rigorous bootcamp style schedule this place has!

I want to push through because I need a job and certs (both which this program will help with) but….I’m scared.

I’m scared of failing and fucking up. I’m scared of sticking out like a sore thumb because of my disabilities. Any reassurance would be great. :(

[u/JarsFullOfStars]

It’s completely understandable to be nervous in a situation like this! People can definitely be jerks, but since this is an adult school filled with (one would think) other adults trying to achieve their dreams, hopefully everyone will be putting their effort towards learning and not on making fun of their fellow students. Bootcamp style can be stressful, but it can also be a great way to stay focused! For a program that rigorous, I’d bet most students are scared of failing, so you’ll probably have plenty of common ground there. And there’s no shame in being scared - that’s just being human, and you didn’t let it stop you, which is amazing!
Make sure you stay hydrated and get plenty of sleep (if possible)! And you’ve got loads of internet moms (and sisters and aunties and nanas) here for you! You got this!

[u/AdPrevious6839]

You are going to do great,  everyone there at adults as well and should act like they are! I went back to school in my 30's, it was hard but I did it and so can you. 

[u/sweetheartsour]

If anyone makes fun of your wheelchair, tell them they are a loser that makes fun of disabled people and give them the stinkiest cheese face possible and dismiss them. 99% of people recognize this is gross behavior and you’ll get backed up immediately. Literally grab anyone else and ask them to bounce the weirdo for you. I’d punch them in the face for you but that’s just me.

I’m so proud of you getting out there and getting some education on purpose! It’s a big deal and all of your feelings are valid. You’ve started and that’s the hardest part. Worrying about it is natural. School is easy, showing up is the biggest hurdle. Showing up for yourself is divine 🥰

Trust that there are people like me everywhere that will show up for you in a big way.

[u/Yep215]

It’s a big step so it makes sense that you’re nervous, but I believe in you! You can do this. It’s very brave to go back to school and it’s setting you up for so much success. Have a great first day … come back and tell us how it went. 🫂

[u/NickName2506]

Hi honey, I'm so proud of you!! For going back to school and for reaching out for support. New things are scary. And you know what helps me? Remembering that you can only be brave if you are scared. I hope everyone will be kind to you and you will make new friends. And if not, know that other people do not determine your worth. You are wonderful just the way you are and learning all these new skills will make you even more amazing! Sending you a big internet hug!

[u/Dimerc1201]

Be scared. It’s ok! Being scared doesn’t make you not capable of doing this! Just don’t let it stop you. I’m going back to school over 30 years later so we can go together and be scared! Ok? I think I’m too old and can’t remember anything and will waste my time and money. And people will look at me funny bc I’m so much older than everyone else. Who cares??! We can do this!!

You are more than capable of getting around that school and showing everyone what a bad ass you are! Get your mind set on succeeding and overcoming any obstacle in your way. Not only am I so proud of you for doing this - imagine how proud you will be of you when you do it.

And if you fuck up - you fuck up. We all do from time to time. I’m sure my journey isn’t going to be a straight road. Don’t be so hard on yourself. Pick yourself up and go after it again. You at SO much more than capable of this! Hold your head high and go for it!!

[u/Muted_Piccolo278]

When you go in on Monday you make sure everyone sees that you are ABLE in a wheelchair, not disabled by it. The people who are put off or unfriendly because of a chair are not the people you want as friends. Remember that other people are also going to be nervous for their own reasons. Be excited by the fact that you are doing this!! You're focused on your future and what this course will mean for you and that is so awesome 👍! The nerves will calm down once you see that people may be curious but not uncomfortable that you use a chair. Give them a chance to get to know you! And let us know how it goes.

[u/Dry-Photograph-3582]

Be brave, Cherub, you belong there and you’re going to do great things with your life. I’m so proud of you.

[u/Caramellatteistasty]

Honey, I am so proud of you! Its okay to be scared, because fear is when bravery starts. Just feel it all and do it anyway. I know you can do this!

I’m physically disabled and am scared people will pick on me for having a wheelchair.

That says more about them then it does about you, even though I know it hurts. Look for and remember the kind ones that you will run into too, because they will be there.

Not succeeding at something isn't the same as failing. Failing means stopping when you could still keep going, even through the hard stuff. You got this my dear!

I went back to school in my mid-40s and it was a great time. I learned a lot, failed some (even one class 2 times!), but I still go through it, and I know you can too.

[u/gemlist]

Oh honey, don’t you be ever worried or scared of what others will say… it doesn’t matter, their opinions are not relevant to your life. I am soooooo proud of you!!! That’s amazing that you are pursuing something that you are passionate about. I am proud of you for putting your happiness above everything else. Don’t overthink too much about failure, I personally learned more from failures than any success… i am sure you would be able to find help outside of the class. You are capable of many great things, you just need to believe in yourself. You can do anything when you believe in yourself. Now go kill it! You got this!