Maybe you’re stuck in a dead-end job, or maybe you feel like you’ve made the wrong career choice. Hey, you were probably in your twenties when you made it – who doesn’t make bad choices then? But the good news is that it’s not too late to go back to college. Sure, it can seem like a daunting experience, but for most people older than 30, going back to college can be even more rewarding than when you were younger.
Marni, a 32-year-old college student in New York City, decided to go back to college to pursue her dream of teaching after working for years in the film and television industry. Convinced of her communication and leadership skills, Marni’s co-workers encouraged her to take on the new challenge, which she did. After a six-year absence from schooling, and a little more worldly knowledge to boot, Marni feels that her grades are better and she has more clarity this time around. “I guess my undergrad experience was a combination of independence and a new social life, going from 18-21 years old among my peers and surviving it.”
Being over 30 and returning to the academic world definitely has its advantages. You have a lot experience with setting priorities and absorbing information. Your attention span is longer and you’re there because you want to be–not because you saw an opportunity to live on your own away from your parents. “College is one of the most welcoming places on earth, perhaps more so than Disneyland,” states K. Kemper, also a non-traditional college student. “It’s a great way to meet new people who share similar interests.”
If you’re thinking about going back to college, whether it’s full-time or part-time, here are some things to consider:
How will you pay for college?
* Plan your budget and check out payment plans at your chosen institution. Set realistic goals as to how you can pay for college if it will be an out-of-pocket expense.
* In most cases, a city or state college is less expensive than private institutions. But be cautious. Some colleges have “State” in the name and are still private institutions.
* Most schools offer financial aid services for almost any kind of situation, from low-interest student loans to non-repayable grant money from the government or private institutions.
* Also, don’t forget to check out scholarships. There are scholarships available for almost all majors and hobbies, from chemistry majors to hand-knitting hobbyist. Scholarship information can be found on your school’s website. But plan ahead; most scholarships can take up to one year or as little as three months to award your money.
* Your employer may also have a tuition assistance program. They can award you up to $5,250 tax-free, according to the IRS. However, some employers will require that you maintain a minimum GPA or the degree of your choice must be work-related. Check with your employers’ human resources department for their policy.
Getting into the swing of things:
* Take classes you enjoy first. If it’s taking an art class or a creative writing class to get you back in the swing of things, go ahead. Taking classes that you enjoy first can leave you with a positive impression. It can also get you up to speed with maintaining deadlines like homework assignments.
* Haven’t taken math or chemistry in years? Most colleges have introductory or remedial classes to get you started. Most of us learned it in grade school. It’s still there–you just have to recall it from memory.
* If you are a returning student and want to pursue your previous major, make sure the requirements have not changed. Some majors will require more classes or different classes to fulfill your graduation requirements.
* Dress comfortably: If you are used to wearing corporate attire or a uniform to work, you want to dress very comfortable when you go to class. Most colleges still have those plastic or wooden chairs with no cushion in the seat and you will be sitting for long periods of time listening to lecture and copying notes. You will also be carrying quite a few books around.
Can’t fit going to college in your schedule with a family?
* Consider night or weekend classes. You can take a few classes after work or in your spare time. Most colleges offer flexible schedules for working adults.
* Also, you can consider online classes, otherwise known as distance learning, in order to get an education without leaving your home. In most cases, you will get your assignments via the college’s website or sent via email. You can even take your exams from your home. However, some colleges may require you to come into the institution for exams or have it proctored from another institution. Check with your college for specific instructions.
* Some colleges have on-site daycare facilities for students with small children free of charge or a small nominal fee. Check with your college for more details.
Still have questions?
* Most colleges have a student services center that can help you with just about everything you need. It’s like having your own concierge. They can set up tours to your potential college or even help you find housing if you’re relocating. Check your schools website for student services information.
Becoming a Non-Traditional Student 101
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