This document discusses challenges that non-traditional students may face in returning to school. It defines a non-traditional student as someone who delays college after high school, works full-time, is financially independent, has dependents, or has other characteristics. In the classroom, non-traditional students should come prepared to learn, respect instructors, and make friends. At home, they need to set boundaries and study times, get family support, and find childcare solutions. To overcome challenges, non-traditional students should plan ahead, avoid overloading their schedule, and ask for help from school, home, and work.

1. Am I Too Old
To be Going to School??
Welcome!

2. • What is a non-traditional student
• What to expect in the classroom
• Challenges at school
• Challenges at home
• Overcoming these challenges
Topics for Non-Traditional Students

3. • While there is not one specific definition there are several common
elements
– Delayed enrollment (did not enter college immediately after high school)
– Works full time
– Is considered financially independent (regarding financial aid eligibility)
– Has dependents (not necessarily a spouse)
– These are not the only elements
• The National Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) has determined
that over 73% of undergraduate students could be considered non-
traditional (having one or more characteristics of a non-traditional
student)
Non-Traditional Students

4. • Come prepared to learn
• Show the instructor the same respect you expect
• Just because you may be older than the professor or instructor that
does not mean you are in charge
• Make friends in the classroom
• Share your extensive knowledge when appropriate
In the Classroom

5. • If you have questions ask them (remember though you are not only
student in class share the instructor)
• If you do not get something right away talk to instructor after call
about resources that may be available for you
• Use those resources
• Be proactive if you start to fall behind or feel as if you are, seek help
In the Classroom

6. • Set aside certain times for studying. Let your family know that they
need to leave you be during those times.
• Set boundaries with your family. Explain why you are going to school
and how it will positively affect them.
• Enlist your children to help, give them some ownership in helping you
succeed.
• You may have to set aside time to stay at the campus in order to stay
focused or use the available resources.
Challenges at Home

7. • Childcare get your spouse on board have them help
• Single parents find/create a network and trade childcare services
• Conflicting Employment Schedules have a courageous conversation
with your employer about how you education will make you a better
employee for them
Challenges at Home

8. • Be proactive
• Plan ahead
• Do not overload your schedule
• Balance your home, work and school schedules
• Do not hesitate to ask for help
– At school
– At home
– At work
Overcoming These Challenges

9. • No it is not easy
• It is worth it
• Yes you can!!!!!
• Now do it!!!!!!!
Summary