We understand your desire to move forward and make progress in your life, and it's wonderful that you're seeking help in Jesus' name. Let's address this situation together with counseling, prayer, and relevant scripture from the World English Bible.
Firstly, it's important to understand that as Christians, we are not to be conformed to this world but transformed by the renewing of our minds. This includes not being conformed to worldly success, being rich, being famous, or being the most educated. In fact, the Bible rebukes this way of life in 1 John 2:15-17 WEB
Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the Father’s love is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father, but is of the world. The world is passing away with its lusts, but he who does God’s will remains forever.
You mentioned a spirit of backwardness, but as believers, we are not to be focused on the spiritual forces of evil. Ephesians 6:12 WEB reminds us:
For our wrestling is not against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world’s rulers of the darkness of this age, and against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.
Instead, we are to put on the full armor of God and stand firm with the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the gospel of peace, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit. Ephesians 6:13-17 WEB. God Himself gives us the tools to fight this spiritual battle.
Regarding your dreams of being in school, consider that God may be using these dreams to speak to you. It could be a metaphor for learning and growing in your spiritual life rather than your earthly career or education. The Bible reminds us, But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and forever. Amen. 2 Peter 3:18 WEB.
In John 8:31-32 WEB, Jesus spoke to the Jews who had believed him, saying,
If you remain in my word, then you are truly my disciples. You will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.
Again, in John 17:17 Jesus prayed to the father, Sanctify them in your truth. Your word is truth.
Remember that it is by His word, the Bible being that word, that we are to grow and be sanctified. We should not be focused on our own success or growth in this world but on our growth in holiness, righteousness, and obedience to Jesus.
Let's pray together:
Dear Heavenly Father, we come before You in Jesus' name, seeking Your will for this dear one's life. We ask that You guide them and help them grow in Your truth and knowledge. Help us to seek You and Your righteousness first. May Your will be done in their life, and may You be glorified through the decisions they make. If there are any ungodly and worldly desires that need to be removed, help us to recognize them and give us the strength to cast them aside. Help us to be conformed to Jesus and not to this world. May all be done to Jesus' glory and honor. Amen.
As you move forward, continue to seek God's will for your life and trust that He is working everything out for your good and His glory because you were called to Him and for His purpose. Romans 8:28 WEB