4 answers
Katelyn
Student
Bella Vista, Arkansas
1
Question
Updated
871 views
What are your favorite tips for someone starting college later in life?
Going for associate of applied science. 😁
4 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer, TRIO Program Administrator
1009
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
This question definitely applied to me, because I attended college later in life. There are several things that I can say about this subject. You do have many advantages over other students, when you enter into a college, or are not a traditional college student.
Starting college later in life, allows individuals to utilize their life experience to their advantage. They should also emphasize their physical and mental health, and most important, create a strong support system of friends and family, to assist when they start to encounter adversity.
You should also set clear goals (one that are your own, and not ones that others want), develop strong time management skills, and definitely utilize all the campus resources (like the library, tutoring and academic assistance) to succeed and achieve your life goals.
* Identify your goals: Know "why" you are returning to school. This will help you stay motivated and focused on achieving your course objectives and academic goals.
* Use your life experiences: Since you are older you can apply your real-world and real life experiences and knowledge to your studies, which can make some academic subjects and concepts easier to grasp.
* Embrace your perspective: Your maturity and life experience are strengths that can help you navigate college and contribute to class discussions.
*Plan your schedule: Campus Navigation and learning how everything works, and can be found definitely helps. Create a realistic schedule that balances classes, study time, work, and personal life. Use a college planner (they are normally provided at college orientation) to stay organized.
* Understand that you may not be able to do everything. Be flexible and let some things slide to avoid burnout.
* Set aside dedicated study time: Find a quiet space (normally in an isolated region of the library) free from distractions to create a productive learning environment.
*Find a support network: Connect with your family, friends, and classmates who understand the challenges you face. Study groups and tutoring centers can be particularly helpful.
* Connect with your professors and staff: Do not be shy, don't hesitate to ask for help. Take advantage of professor office hours, tutoring centers, and your academic advisor.
* Prioritize your health: Make time for sleep, exercise, and a healthy diet. Take up and participate in hobbies (something I observed many students do not do), and other activities that help you relax and alleviate stress.
* Stay positive: Rome was not built in one day, good things can take some time, and there is always an adjustment period for older and non-traditional students. Maintain a positive attitude and a belief in your abilities, and don't let fear get in your way. Some of us may fear adversity, but the fact is adversity helps you to improve and progress in life. So definitely embrace it.
Starting college later in life, allows individuals to utilize their life experience to their advantage. They should also emphasize their physical and mental health, and most important, create a strong support system of friends and family, to assist when they start to encounter adversity.
You should also set clear goals (one that are your own, and not ones that others want), develop strong time management skills, and definitely utilize all the campus resources (like the library, tutoring and academic assistance) to succeed and achieve your life goals.
* Identify your goals: Know "why" you are returning to school. This will help you stay motivated and focused on achieving your course objectives and academic goals.
* Use your life experiences: Since you are older you can apply your real-world and real life experiences and knowledge to your studies, which can make some academic subjects and concepts easier to grasp.
* Embrace your perspective: Your maturity and life experience are strengths that can help you navigate college and contribute to class discussions.
*Plan your schedule: Campus Navigation and learning how everything works, and can be found definitely helps. Create a realistic schedule that balances classes, study time, work, and personal life. Use a college planner (they are normally provided at college orientation) to stay organized.
* Understand that you may not be able to do everything. Be flexible and let some things slide to avoid burnout.
* Set aside dedicated study time: Find a quiet space (normally in an isolated region of the library) free from distractions to create a productive learning environment.
*Find a support network: Connect with your family, friends, and classmates who understand the challenges you face. Study groups and tutoring centers can be particularly helpful.
* Connect with your professors and staff: Do not be shy, don't hesitate to ask for help. Take advantage of professor office hours, tutoring centers, and your academic advisor.
* Prioritize your health: Make time for sleep, exercise, and a healthy diet. Take up and participate in hobbies (something I observed many students do not do), and other activities that help you relax and alleviate stress.
* Stay positive: Rome was not built in one day, good things can take some time, and there is always an adjustment period for older and non-traditional students. Maintain a positive attitude and a belief in your abilities, and don't let fear get in your way. Some of us may fear adversity, but the fact is adversity helps you to improve and progress in life. So definitely embrace it.
Thank you Paul!
Katelyn
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hi Katelyn. One of the biggest advantages you have is your life experience. Unlike younger students, you already have work experience and a clear idea of what you want. However, many non-traditional students need to balance jobs, family, or other responsibilities along with coursework.
One of my tips is: create a schedule that clearly separates class time, study time, and personal time can reduce stress and help you stay on top of assignments. Planners, calendars, or phone apps can be very helpful. Be realistic about how many classes you take at once. It's better to do well in fewer classes than to struggle with too many.
Connecting with classmates and professors is also important. Don't be afraid to introduce yourself and ask questions. Professors can become mentors, give career advice, and even write letters of recommendation. Even if you feel different from younger students, your maturity and focus are often appreciated. You can also take advantage of campus resources like tutoring, career services, or student clubs to help you succeed and feel part of the community.
Also, you can stay motivated by thinking about your goals. An Associate of Applied Science is a step toward a career, and every assignment, exam, and lab is helping you get there. Wishing you all the best!
One of my tips is: create a schedule that clearly separates class time, study time, and personal time can reduce stress and help you stay on top of assignments. Planners, calendars, or phone apps can be very helpful. Be realistic about how many classes you take at once. It's better to do well in fewer classes than to struggle with too many.
Connecting with classmates and professors is also important. Don't be afraid to introduce yourself and ask questions. Professors can become mentors, give career advice, and even write letters of recommendation. Even if you feel different from younger students, your maturity and focus are often appreciated. You can also take advantage of campus resources like tutoring, career services, or student clubs to help you succeed and feel part of the community.
Also, you can stay motivated by thinking about your goals. An Associate of Applied Science is a step toward a career, and every assignment, exam, and lab is helping you get there. Wishing you all the best!
Susana Flores Becerra
Culture and Engagement
2
Answers
Guadalajara
Updated
Susana’s Answer
First of all, I think its amazing to start college at any time of our lifes, its not that simple or easy and has more merit to do it later in life. what I think its super important for you to start this new path in your life is to be discipline but as well be compassionate to yourself, try to take things one day at a time but also have your celndar and your to does in order so you don´t get lost as, we as adults have more responsabilities ans all these can be on the way if we don´t get organized.
Thank you Susana!
Katelyn
Lisa Towles
Senior Manager of Operations at HCL Technologies
11
Answers
Oakland, California
Updated
Lisa’s Answer
Hi Katelyn,
I went back to school a long time after my Bachelor’s and here’s what I did wrong: I didn’t leave enough time to ENJOY what I was learning, the school, and my peers. My advice is to try to create enough space in your life so you can learn and process and enjoy the path, rather than just preparing for exams. It’s such a wonderful, rich opportunity.
Wishing you well on this next step in your journey!
I went back to school a long time after my Bachelor’s and here’s what I did wrong: I didn’t leave enough time to ENJOY what I was learning, the school, and my peers. My advice is to try to create enough space in your life so you can learn and process and enjoy the path, rather than just preparing for exams. It’s such a wonderful, rich opportunity.
Wishing you well on this next step in your journey!
Thank you Lisa!
Katelyn
Delete Comment
Flag Comment