Practical Tips for Adults Returning to College

The non-traditional student is on the rise nationwide across college campuses. What is a non-traditional student? Although there exists no strict definition of a non-traditional student, the National Center for Education Statistics reports that non-traditional students are typically distinguished by their age and part-time status. (1)

Non-Traditional Student?

The non-traditional student is normally older, regarded as financially independent by FAFSA and delays post-secondary college enrollment. According to the Center for Law and Social Policies, over one-third of current undergraduates are 25 years old or older. (2) Perhaps in light of this finding the non-traditional student is genuinely traditional.

Skyrocketing Tuition

Over four-fifths of current undergraduates rely on financial aid to defer the cost of escalating tuition fees. (3) Older non-traditional students heading back to the university should take advantage of federal financial aid and grant opportunities. Financial aid is conducted via the US Department of Education, but financial aid is disbursed by the participating college or university. Grants are also awarded to financially underprivileged students or students boasting extraordinary academic achievement.

Plus 50

The American Association of Community Colleges and <i>US News and World Report</i> note that community colleges nationwide are consolidated in supporting a "Plus 50" program to help returning students. (4) The Plus 50 program seeks to provide returning students with enrichment programs to bolster occupational and lifestyle needs. The American Association of Community Colleges' Plus 50 program equips adult learners with social services and volunteer opportunities as well.

A Day in the Life

Returning adult students should inquire about student life and university resources before culminating the enrollment process at any academic institution. In practical terms this could mean asking current students about rapport between the professors, teacher's aids and students. It might also prove helpful to find out the following: whether most students commute to class, what the student to teacher ratio is, how available parking is, how available teacher's aids and academic counselors are, and the expected workload for non-traditional students.

Computer Literacy Time

With society's shift to the information age, returning students should honestly appraise their computer using skills. A working knowledge of Excel, PowerPoint and Word are considered compulsory for returning students who will need to submit spreadsheets, papers and presentations to professors. Moreover, learning the nuances of PowerPoint will inevitably pay dividends in the working world.

Play the Accountant

Returning students should tabulate basic college expenditures and ascertain whether they have the time and resources for 16 or more credits per semester. It is important to coordinate with financial aid specialists, family members, current college students, and even employers to determine the need, timing and potential of attaining a college degree.

To Return or Not to Return?

Returning to university is certainly not a light commitment, but with a stagnating economy and inhospitable job market now might be the ideal time to bolster your credentials and increase your employability by returning to the classroom. Additionally, today's job market incentivizes the experience and training that many universities pride themselves on.

Sources
1) http://nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/2002/analyses/nontraditional/sa01.asp

2) http://www.clasp.org/admin/site/publications/files/Nontraditional-Students-Facts-2011.pdf

3) http://www.deltacostproject.org/resources/pdf/Trends-in-College-Spending-98-08.pdf