How To: Overcome Challenges When Returning To College

Going back to college can seem incredibly daunting at times. It takes a lot of confidence and preparation, and many people easily become overwhelmed with the whole experience. However, it doesn’t have to be all stress and work. Here is everything you need to know about how to overcome the challenges of returning to education. 

One of the biggest things about going back to education as a mature student is the fact that you will probably have to work at the same time as you study. While many first-time students will work too, their jobs are often to help them earn a little extra cash during their time in college to allow them to party with others their age. 

For adult learners, there’s usually a bit more to their job in terms of feeding themselves or their children, upkeeping cars and paying rent or mortgages. This means that college can seem like a bigger juggle. 

Trying to fit classes into a busy schedule can often cause a lot of stress to mature students and can even put some off. However, it doesn’t have to be like this. It’s important to be honest with yourself in terms of what you can and can’t manage. This also extends to your family, friends and even employers. 

If you need to work a lot during the week, full-time education may not be the best option for you. It’s important to keep looking through courses until you find one that works for you. It could be an evening course, a part-time course or one with flexible hours. An online course that does not require you to be present on campus could be the best solution.

Another worry of many mature students is the financial side of things. It’s a sticky situation for all students, but for those returning to college, it can be hard to find the extra cash. Often what happens is that they prioritise the education of their children over their own. However, it doesn’t have to be an either-or scenario. 

Education doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank. The price of colleges can range from a lot to a very reasonable amount. Part-time or evening courses are reasonably priced and pack a lot into their duration. 

Many colleges, universities and other institutions offer financial aid to their students who may be returning to education. This can help offset the cost of tuition. Some may even offer scholarships and packages to provide even more aid to students. 

One of the most common worries of mature students is not being good enough for college. Going back to education is certainly a challenge, but it is even more rewarding. It’s easy to feel like you’re underqualified or have been out of formal education, but these fears are only in your head. You are more than capable of returning to college. 

Most colleges are made for those of all levels. Not only will your lecturers and tutors cater to everyone’s needs in terms of academic ability, but they will also provide extra material to study after class. Attending lectures and doing assignments will help you to fully understand the course. 

If you feel as though you’re struggling, it can help to speak to your instructors and classmates and ask for assistance where possible. Most institutions will provide additional academic aid for those who need it also.