Going back to education after time out can be a scary thing to do. There are many different aspects that may frighten you off. However, it is important to rise above it. You may feel like you are taking a leap that you will not land, but trust us when we say, every mature student feels the same. Whatever your fear is, you can almost guarantee that every other mature student you meet or cross paths with feels the same. Here are some of the most common fears felt by mature students upon returning to education.
- The Money
College is certainly not cheap. We know that for a fact. Even as a young student with probably very little financial responsibility in terms of mortgages or kids, it can be hard to find the funds. However, don’t let money be the reason you turn down a college course. You might be eligible for grants or student financial aid. This can go a long way towards helping you achieve your dream degree.
If you feel as though you won’t able to juggle a full-time course due to financial pressure, a part-time or evening course is a great option. These courses are usually less expensive than full-time courses and will allow you more time to work as you study. If it is a possibility, try to get a job in the field you’re studying. This can help you to build both your theoretical and practical knowledge. You will have the upper hand over your classmates as you will have experience from the working world.
2. The Work
Almost everyone who plans to enter education again will doubt their academic ability. Mature students tend to feel like they won’t be as clever or capable as their younger classmates. This is a common fear and one that couldn’t be further from the truth. Just because you have been out of education for a while doesn’t mean that you’re not cut out for it. It simply means that you may need a little longer to adjust. More often than not, this fear is an issue with confidence.
To help you get ahead, there are plenty of student support systems in place. For example, your college will probably hold classes on academic writing to help you boost your essay writing skills. At the end of term, there will be classes or seminars to help you properly prepare for exam content and situations. There will be private student academic support available too, so don’t be afraid to ask.
3. The Technology
Although technology has become a huge part of our lives, we haven’t all mastered it just yet. Admittedly, you will probably be faced with some programme, device or system that you haven’t used before. Even if you have, your lecturers will be keen to show you how to use them to prevent any issues arising.
Outside of classtime, try to get into a computer lab to play around with the computer. Don’t be afraid of it. Your college may offer IT support or classes on computers, so don’t pass up the opportunity to take one.
4. The People
A major fear among mature students returning to education is that they won’t fit in with their classmates. Most will think that the younger students won’t want anything to do with them, and this is only the case if the mature students don’t want anything to do with the younger ones. Think of it this way, would you want to spend time with someone who was scoffing at you or not taking you seriously? Absolutely not, and the younger students will feel the same.
Try to find common ground with them and try to bond over the course or your shared experiences. Others in your class will appreciate you making the effort. In terms of other mature students, join relevant clubs and societies. College often brings lifelong friends together, and this is no different for those returning to education.
Check out our post here about why you should become a mature student.
