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Going to college later in life can seem like a challenge. If you haven’t been enrolled in formal education for a number of years, the idea of being a student is likely intimidating. However, there are many good reasons to pursue higher education as an adult, or nontraditional, student. A college degree can open career possibilities that may not otherwise be attainable. If you’re considering returning to higher education, here are some tips that can make the process easier.
Get Your Loved Ones On Board
It’s never too late to go back to college. One of the best things you can do for yourself as you can on this major life transition is to communicate openly with your family, friends, and loved ones. Just as you’re nervous about the changes college will have on your life, so are the people who care about you. Talk to the people who are important in your life to let them know why getting an advanced degree matters to you. Tell them about the kinds of opportunities that will be available to you once you have earned your diploma. Share your career dreams with them. Once they understand your reasons for wanting to make this life change, the easier it will be for them to support you.
This type of open communication also helps you to know that you’re doing the right thing. If you’re able to explain to others why pursuing higher education is important to you, you’ll feel more confident about the path you’ve chosen. Don’t stop there, though. You’ll also want to let your loved ones know about the kind of help and support you will need. Be sure to inform them that you may have less free time to spend with them, but that they are still just as dear to you. Remind them that the sacrifice will be worth it. Don’t be afraid to tell them specific ways they can assist you, such as taking on more household chores or giving you quiet time to study. Such communication upfront will limit conflict later on.
Stick to a Schedule
Once you’re able to enroll in classes, you’ll want to set up a regular routine and stick to it. Doing so will ensure that you have time to attend to your obligations and that the people who count on you will know what to expect from this new lifestyle. Try to schedule classes so that you have some free time in-between. This block of time will give you a built-in opportunity to study while on campus. Scheduling in this manner will allow you to be more intentional with your time. You can focus on home and family more when you know you’ve done most of your academic work at school.
Find Support at School
As noted above, having a support system from your loved ones is essential. If you choose to study in Canada, it will also be helpful to build yourself a network on campus. Be sure to take advantage of college resources such as academic advisers, professors and tutors. These experts can make academic life less stressful. They will provide the information you need in order to navigate the higher education system at your institution. You’ll also want to build a network of friends. You may want to look first for people who are in a similar situation to yourself. Other adult students who are facing a new routine will be able to understand how you’re feeling. You can encourage each other when things become stressful or difficult. Don’t be afraid to reach out to younger students. They can provide a new perspective on life that is refreshing. Students who have been there for a year or so are also wonderful support. They know the ropes and can answer questions as well as provide reassurance that everything will be all right.
These tips should help you feel more confident about the idea of returning to higher education later in life. Though it may be intimidating, as an adult, you possess the life experience and skills that are likely to make you an excellent student. Once you start to get the hang of things, you’ll soon see that you are quite capable of attaining your dreams.