Making the decision to go to rehab for drug or alcohol addiction can improve your life in a multitude of ways. However, this choice also likely comes with a number of questions. For example, you may wonder if you can attend college after going to rehab. The short answer is that you absolutely can go to school. You might return to a university program that you were currently enrolled in, or you may go to college for the first time.
The Basics of College After Rehab
Many colleges provide genuinely accepting environments. In other words, colleges and universities are places where people from all backgrounds come together to discuss perspectives, share ideas and learn from one another. It would be unusual to find a college that would refuse to admit you based purely on the fact that you were in rehab. Simply recognizing that colleges are typically open-minded institutions can be the inspiration you need to enroll.
Options for Enrolling in College
When it comes to enrolling in college after rehab, there are a few different paths that you could pursue:
- returning to a previous program
- going to college for the first time
- changing programs or colleges
Learning about each of these options can help you better navigate the situation.
Returning to a Previous Program
You might have left college for a period of time to go to a rehab program. You also might be wondering if you can leave your current program to attend rehab. Colleges, as institutions, are typically supportive of students who want to recover from addiction. You should speak with your academic advisor about how to take a leave of absence. Don’t simply stop going to your classes. Doing so could cause problems for your grades or with opportunities for financial aid. Most colleges have ways for students to take a leave of absence for health reasons and to then later return to the school. Keep in mind that may have to disclose the reason for your leave of absence. Documentation may be required.
Going to College for the First Time
You can also certainly enroll in college for the first time after going to rehab. You might even choose to use your recovery story as inspiration for your admissions essay. However, you are also not typically required to inform the admissions staff that you were previously in rehab for drug or alcohol addiction. Some colleges do have support groups for students who were in rehab in the past or who otherwise struggled with alcohol or drug addiction, so you can actually find a community of support at your school. You may even want to look specifically into colleges that have such groups.
Transferring Programs or Schools
During your time in rehab, you might gain a new perspective on life and learn more about yourself and your goals. As a result, you may decide to transfer into a different program or even to an entirely new school, and doing so is certainly possible. Credits don’t always transfer seamlessly from one program or college to another, so speaking with academic advisors is helpful in mapping out your future plans.
Preventing Relapse
Going to college after rehab is absolutely possible. In order to stay focused on your academic and career goals as well as your health, seek support services that help you to prevent relapse. For example, you could join one of the support groups at your school. Also, really try to enjoy your college experience. If you find that a program or class isn’t the right fit, talk to your advisor about how you might proceed. Get involved with opportunities on campus as well.
Becoming a part of a healthy and vibrant community can keep you away from temptations and allow you to stay focused on the positive parts of your life. You can also continue to attend outpatient rehab sessions and programs. Going to rehab in no way prevents you from attending college. In fact, your experience at rehab can make you feel more motivated in your university studies. Call us at 833-497-3812 today to learn more about how rehab can better your life and open up doors to new opportunities.