Adults Going Back to School and Fitting In
Guidelines for Facing New Challenges and New Experiences in College
Jul 26, 2008
When an adult goes back to there is typically concern about fitting in with the younger generation. Unfortunately, this keeps some adults from going back to school. These fears by those in their thirties and forties, along with baby boomers, are unfounded. The challenge adults face is not fitting in with younger students; their real challenge is focusing on learning when dealing with life’s commitments.
Transition challenges are real and need to be addressed; however most adults learn right away that they are not the only adults in the class, especially when enrolled in evening classes. Evening classes typically have several older students, because evening classes fit their work or family schedule.
Fitting In When Going Back to School
Even though fitting in is a challenge at first, this challenge is easily overcome. Be patient and relaxed when dealing with school officials, other students, and instructors. This can be accomplished by:
- Visiting the campus and taking a guided or unguided tour of key buildings and offices.
- Visiting buildings where classes are located to become familiar with classroom locations and surroundings.
- Taking a tour of the library and student center, these are the two places most frequented by students.
- Attending orientation sessions specifically designed for adult students so they get to know other adults who are going back to school.
- During classes do not be afraid to contribute; however do not try to dominate other students in the class.
Myths About Going back to School
Many adults are have encountered people in their lifetime who have nothing favorable to say about going back to school. These encounters have an impact on their personal knowledge and experiences. This can lead to unfounded fears and the creation of myths, some of which include:
- College is only for intelligent people – hardly true because college students come from all walks of life.
- College is only for the young – the average age of college students today is 27. This means there is a large population of students older than the average.
- Students must pass entrance exams – many schools waive entrance exams for students beyond predetermined ages.
- College instructors are threatened by older students – not true because most instructors enjoy older students because they typically want to learn, not be told what they need to know.
Guidelines for Fitting In
There are other things adult students need to consider when going back to school. These include:
- Age is relative – when entering a classroom for the first time, many adult students are surprised to find there is someone older than they are in the class.
- Do not pass judgment – do not try to be the parent of younger students. Their dress and hair may be offensive in some cases; just remember younger students are just expressing their new-found freedom from their parents.
- Avoid trying to be a buddy with the instructor – in many cases the instructor and adult student may be similar ages; focus on being a student first and working with classmates.
- Share knowledge – develop a mutual mentorship with fellow students. Sharing knowledge in group efforts is one key to a good grade.
An adult going back to school is a common occurrence today and he/she should not be worried about fitting in with younger students and the college. For additional information about transitioning back to school visit 10 Tips for Adults Who are Going Back to School.
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