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In a world where youth rules, a stroll down many college and university campuses would seem to confirm the fact that youth, in fact, do have strength in numbers. However, a growing trend in the nontraditional student population would indicate a large number of older students are taking advantage of opportunities once thought to be available primarily to the fresh out of High School.
Nontraditional students (any student over the age of 25) are flocking to many of the nation's institutions of higher learning to avail themselves of the benefits of a college education. However, the life of a nontraditional student is usually quite different from one fresh out of High School. Oftentimes, college life is a bit more difficult to balance for the older student, juggling school classes, college requirements, and final exams with the sometimes more complex issues of life itself.
But, the life of a nontraditional can be every bit as rewarding, if the return to college is thoughtfully and carefully planned. Some thoughts hold true for all students, no matter at what age. Other suggestions apply more to the older student.
For the most positive college experience, a nontraditional student would do well to consider the following guidelines:
(1) Plan ahead - phone or write for a college catalog, a list of courses offered, a college handbook, and any other literature the school's admissions office has to offer. Read up on as much as possible, to acquaint yourself with what lies ahead.
(2) Look for departments or organizations designed specifically for older students. A college or university might have special clubs, or you might find help through some type of student support services.
(3) Make a visit to campus before you enroll. Plan to personally meet and visit with your financial aid counselor, admissions personnel, and anyone connected with some of the departments and organizations you've got your eye on. It is especially helpful to visit with professors within the department you think you will major.
(4) If you're moving to a new town for school, try to move in a few weeks before registration. Allow yourself plenty of time to unpack and get settled in. Moving is quite a significant feat, all by itself. You might also want to get to know your new neighbors, as well. Some of them will probably be seasoned back-to-college folks, who can offer you advice and support.
(5) Walk around campus and acquaint yourself better with the layout of the campus and with places you know you'll need to visit later. Take time to start meeting a few people, so you'll start feeling more settled and comfortable in your new surroundings.
(6) Registration Day - don't sweat it. Registration day is almost always long, boring and frustrating! It won't be just because you're not the "traditional" student, either. It's always chaos for almost everyone involved. After registration is complete, get your books and start familiarizing yourself with what's to come. Then, stroll around campus again, and try to locate where your classes will be held.
(7) Don't be afraid to meet and get to know other students - even the "youngsters." Walk the campus, spend some time in the Student Center, and get to know your new neighbors, as well.
(8) Take time to meet all of your teachers and start getting to know them during the first couple of weeks of classes. Get a feel for who they are and what they expect from their students and their classes. Let them get to know you, too, as an individual. Many teachers have a high respect for older students, and this will be in your favor. And, by all means, keep in touch with teachers throughout the term. If you have problems, like a personal illness or illness in the family, let your instructors know as soon as possible. This helps you stay on top of your education, instead of getting buried under it.
(9) Give yourself plenty of time to complete assignments. Most teachers will hand out a course syllabus (schedule and requirements) at the beginning of the term, so students will know what to expect. Make notes of special assignments, exams and special projects and when they become due. Try to start these special projects and assignments early. Although every student will sometimes have problems finishing an assignment or making it to an exam, older students with additional responsibilities of family and work may find themselves more likely to hit a bump in the road than younger students. Again, keep in touch with your instructors! This could mean the difference in having extra time to complete an assignment or exam, or having to take a failing grade for something missed due to circumstances beyond your control.
(10) Finally, allow yourself room to be human - to be yourself! Don't try to be something you're not. Many older students try too hard to fit in, joining social clubs and hanging out with the younger students all of the time. You don't have to do this, unless it's just something you really want to do. If you want to do it, that's fine. But you don't have to pretend to be "one of the kids." You have a lot to offer, by just being yourself. Many students will look up to you, admiring your initiative and zeal for working for your education. Many others will simply look past you, because you don't "fit in."
Above everything else, just be yourself. Think of college as simply one aspect of your life, rather than making it your entire life. This will help you keep everything in perspective.
Prepare before you go, yes, then just do your best and enjoy a very meaningful time of your life.
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