It was an adjustment, but I'm an adult student working on an undergrad degree. Here are some things I've learned.
The Funding is Out There
As an adult student, you have a lot of benefits! Most colleges and universities will accept your application, unconditionally. What does that mean? It means that all you need to do is apply and you'll be accepted. Often times, adult students are accepted at a reduced tuition, as well. Think about it, a full education at a prestigious university for half the cost! Regardless of your financial status, it doesn't hurt to apply for financial aid. There are deadlines, so be sure to check with your school.
Also, you may want to check out FastWeb for free resources, grants, scholarships, and contests. It's amazing to see how many businesses want adult students to succeed and will offer funding!
It's Never too Late
As a 30-something student, I'm not the oldest, nor am I the youngest, in the classroom. I've sat next to students ranging in age from 16 to 73. It all depends on the motivation!Afraid Your Kids will Have to Wash their Underwear in the Sink and Dry Them with a Hairdryer?
One of the biggest reasons people don't go back to school as adults is a fear that the household will fall apart. It doesn't have to! Everyone needs to understand what their job is, how that job will get done, and the impact on the entire family if someone doesn't do their assigned tasks. Communication is key. Find a system and stick to it. It may take an entire semester to get used to the change, so be patient!Communicate with Your Employer
Let your boss know you're going back to school. There may be times when you will need to adjust your schedule for daytime classes, study groups, or final projects. Additionally, your employer may be encouraged by your ambition and could suggest financial resources to help fund your education. Just be sure to read the fine print, some tuition assistance comes with strict guidelines.Invest in a High Quality Crockpot with a Timer
Between your daytime job and nighttime homework, who has time to cook? Cook your meals throughout the day and make extras for freezing. At the beginning of the semester, you'll get a syllabus with a schedule. Plan your meals around mid-terms and finals. Take lunches and snacks with you on the days you have class. If you eat after a night class, you'll notice a rapid weight gain! Try to eat before class, a snack during class, and have some fruit when you get home, if you're still hungry.Don't Get Intimidated by Youth in the Classroom
You will learn slower than traditional students (also known as “trads”). Face it, you're older and wiser. This isn't something to be ashamed about! Although it may take a little more explanation for you to grasp certain concepts, you will also add wisdom and logic to discussions. Through your questions, the youngsters are also learning…even if they appear to already know everything!Communicate with Your Professors and Instructors
Work, family, school - it's a lot to juggle. Fortunately, many professors and instructors are in a similar situation. After all, they're at school during the evenings, too. Some instructors will allow adult students to miss more days than trads, but you need to make sure you email or call the instructor before you miss class (or as soon as possible after you miss class). Sometimes, it's not possible to make up tests and if something pulls you away from school for an extended time, you may need to drop the class.Math - The New Frontier
Don't feel bad if you end up in remedial math classes - feel thankful! Kids in grade school are learning the same things I studied my senior year of high school! Some universities will give you a math aptitude test before you register for classes. If they don't and you notice a higher level math is a requirement for your major, ask to see a syllabus. Don't be afraid to make an appointment with the math department to get an assessment of your knowledge versus their teaching and how they can help you get up to speed. Sometimes, it's as simple as getting a good tutor.Tutor? He's Younger than My Son
I've needed a tutor for a class. It's a little intimidating at first, especially when some painfully young kid is explaining something you don't understand. However, tutors are often appointed by the professor, who is aware of the abilities of the tutor and trusts that the tutor will guide you and help you to understand concepts. Just remember, everyone is good at something and just because you're don't understand a concept and need a tutor, it doesn't mean you can't learn. How do You Learn?
If you find you need a tutor for every class, then you may need to adjust the way you learn. Check out Vark and answer the questions. They will analyze your results and help you to adjust your study habits. Also, various studies have shown that as we age, we become a little more attention deficit. If you think you may have adult onset ADD, visit your campus wellness center or Student Academic Services for testing and diagnosis.
Lastly, don't overload yourself. Two classes per semester is plenty to take on while you're working a running a household. Start out slow and build up your confidence - maybe take something fun like an art class or a literature class. Remember, you can do it!
