Returning to School as an Adult
Did you know that the average age of students in college keeps getting higher? The home page of a resource for adult learners "Back2College" features a great quote by George Elliot.
"It is never too late to be what you might have been."
More adults are going back to school - for first degrees, to upgrade
job skills, to prepare for a new career or to finish a program started many
years earlier. Although the decision to return to school can be intimidating
for adults who have not been in a classroom for years, most are surprised
by how accomplished they are as students.
The options for higher education are wider than ever. Students can enroll in traditional classroom programs, distance learning classes, electronic courses, TV/video classes, weekend classes - the list goes on. Think about what kind of program best meets your individual needs. There are a variety of resources that explain the various options and help you discover which is right for you. Our advisors can also help you decide which programs fit your needs and goals. If you have been out of school for some time and think you may need to brush up on reading, math or writing skills, take advantage of Learn-A-Test, courtesy of the D.C. Public Library. Learn-A-Test offers a wide variety of tests and online courses to help you improve your skills.
Funding your education is an issue for students of all ages. Remember:
- Adult learners can apply for most of the same federal and state
programs that are available to 'traditional' aged students. We can
help you obtain and complete most of your applications.
- Find out if your employer will help with costs.
- Ask the colleges you are considering if they will give you credit
for prior knowledge or courses. Reducing the number of classes you
have to pay for can reduce your costs.
- Contact professional associations for the career field you are
preparing for. Many offer scholarships or grants to students in related
programs.
- Visit the College Info Center and pick up one of our newest publications "Scholarships for Adult Learners."
Throughout the year, the CIC offers workshops on returning to college
for adults. Check our schedule
of events for the next session. Links to several other web sites
of interest to adult students can be found in our More Resources section.