Adult Learner

Student Testimonial 
Bruce Preston, HVAC Student

 

Here are a few scenarios which might make you think about returning to school:

• You want to move into a higher earning bracket and you’re confident a degree will help.
• You want specific educational training to further your career.
• You’re switching career fields completely and want training in the new field so you’ll be competitive in the job market.
• You took time off while in school and now you’re ready to return.
• You have some financial security but you’d like a career you’re more passionate about.
• You’re interested in a field or course of study but not ready to devote yourself to it full-time.

 

Set Yourself Up For Success 

• Understand how adult learning is different

“Adult learners flourish when their learning is connected to their lives,” he said.

They tend to thrive less when they’re expected to complete assignments that feel like busywork, with sparse applications outside of academia.

• Prepare to seek support for skills that might have lapsed

“All students… tend to think they’re better prepared than they are,” Scobey said.

Don’t let that stop you from getting the help you need. For example, study or reading skills might atrophy with time away from school.

• Pause before pursuing an online program

Taking classes online might seem like a flexible way to get a college education, but it requires more self-motivation and self-management than many people realize. The success rates with these programs are much lower than with traditional programs, with many online students taking six or more years to graduate with a bachelor’s degree.

 Ask yourself: “Will I thrive with isolated, self-scheduled learning?”

• Don’t rush your timeline

Yes, it’s statistically true that if you spend six or more years in school, you’re less likely to graduate, but it’s still important to keep your schedule at a manageable level.

It’s better to take a few credits each semester and keep up with it than to overload yourself with so many school, work, family, and financial responsibilities that you drop out.

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