Is It Time For You, As an Adult, To Earn a Degree?
Nov 10, 2009 University Degree
You’ve decided it’s time to do something for yourself. Now that you’ve raised your children and are either settled in your career or are looking for a career advancement, it’s time to go back to college. Yes, you may be older than most of your classmates, but making the decision to become an “adult learner” may be one of the best you’ve ever made.
Your choices for back to school are typically – online or on campus. While online classes may offer you more options for classes to take, maybe you’re looking to be on campus, mingling with your peers, talking face-to-face with professors. Either way, you will need to brush up on your computer skills if they’ve gotten rusty or if, perhaps, they were never in top working order. Consider taking one or two basic computer classes so you won’t have to struggle with technology and can simply enjoy your classroom learning time.
Do you have the time to devote to studies? It may be an unfortunate fact that if you haven’t been in a classroom environment in a while, it may take a while to get into the swing of things – studying, projects, tests. Be realistic in your expectations of yourself. Can’t go full time? Start out with one or two classes to ease yourself back into the college environment.
A benefit of going to college after you’ve become established in your life or in your career is that you will likely have more of an appreciation for college than you would have when you were in your 20s. As an adult learner you will be more invested in your college learning than you might have been earlier in life. Also, with the amount of practical knowledge you’ve gained during the course of your life, you may be better able to apply college lessons to life’s practicalities.
Being a lifelong learner has its advantages as studies show that individuals who keep their minds (as well as their bodies) active may be able to slow or diminish the effects of Alzheimer’s disease. Obviously attending classes brings challenges with it, and who doesn’t appreciate a challenge?
Prior to taking the plunge, decide whether you will pursue a degree or whether you simply want to learn something new just for yourself. Also, decide whether you want in-person or online classes. Make your decisions and then begin your learning. You’re never too old to learn!
Ellen Matheson is an instuctor at a well known online college. She holds two online degrees and a PhD from a traditional university.
Tags: adult student, college, degrees, non-traditional student, online college, university, University Degree
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