If it’s been awhile since you set foot in a classroom, you’ll notice some things have changed.
Nearly a quarter of the population—children and adults alike—will return to school this year. There’s no reason you can’t be one of them—even if you haven’t been inside a classroom for years. An estimated 40% of college students will be adult learners over the age of 24. These will be parents, full-time employees, volunteers, retirees, entrepreneurs, veterans, and more, all with varying backgrounds and education levels.
There are many reasons to head back to school, and adults returning to the classroom often have different motivations than younger students. Adult students are often seeking to change careers or earn additional certifications to advance in their current jobs. They may want to start side gigs, open a business, or pursue a personal interest.
“With the appropriate match, additional schooling can provide you with abundant benefits—career-wise, personally, socially, and intellectually,” says Sally Lipsky, PhD, a plant-based nutrition educator and former professor of education. “Taking the leap into a return to school can have tremendous paybacks throughout the coming years.”
Back-to-School Checklist
If it’s been awhile since you set foot in a classroom, you’ll notice some things have changed. Before you register for classes, make sure you’re ready for the journey.
Do Your Research
Researching your potential field of study is arguably the most important tool for a return to the classroom as an adult. Lipsky suggests potential students:
Choose a Program
Once you’ve narrowed down what you want to study, it’s time to choose a program that works for you. Before making a decision, Lipsky recommends asking an admissions counselor:
Picking a program that aligns with your past experience and lifestyle can mean the difference between an enjoyable program and one that could cause roadblocks to your success. For example, a program with small classes could mean more one-on-one time with the instructor. A program that offers a flexible schedule or online options may mean the difference between being able to dial in from home when your child is sick and missing an important lecture.
Gather Support
It’s always a good idea to start building a support system as soon as possible. You never know who might be able to offer some insight into the field you’re considering. You can begin this process right now. Facebook and LinkedIn are good places to find groups from specific schools, fields of study, and even individual courses.
Study groups are another way to build a support system academically and socially.
“In the course or program, seek out like-minded students who want to collaborate on learning and support,” says Lipsky. “Many institutions have formal advisors and support programs for the non-traditional students.”
Explore Financing Options
The cost of an education can be a major consideration for adults going back to school, says Lipsky. If you’re already working, some companies and institutions may pay for training and professional development opportunities, but often there are strings attached.
Your company may expect you to commit to a work contract with them, so make sure you understand the details of the agreement before taking them up on their offer to fund your education. Some graduate programs offer assistance in the form of stipends or waived tuition for assistantships.
There is no age limit for federal student aid, and the U.S. Department of Education’s online resource page is easy to navigate. There are also scholarships available through a number of programs—including many for single…
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