Self-improvement

Tips can smooth transition for professionals returning to school

If going back to school to further your education and improve your career options is on your list of resolutions, consider the following information and tips. When a new school semester begins, children and young adults may not be the only ones who are returning to the classroom. Many adults resolve to expand their professional horizons by returning to school, even after they have established themselves in their professions. Some may hope to develop skills specific to a particular job, while others may want to make it easier to transition to a new career. The number of adult undergraduates continues to grow. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 33 percent of the 18 million undergraduate students in the United States are older than 25. Students older than 30 make up 22 percent of the student body in colleges and universities. The NCES also projects a continued rise of older students through 2020. Going back to school can be an exciting time, but it also comes with a bit of trepidation. Many adults may not have been in a classroom in more than a decade. A lot of things have changed with regard to academia in recent decades, and adults may need some extra time and help to make their transition back to student go smoothly.

Schedule a campus visit.

Choosing a school is an important decision. Even though you might not be spending as much time on campus as you did when you were younger, don’t overlook the importance of a campus visit. A member of the admissions faculty, or even a current student, may be able to offer a guided tour, explaining the layout of the campus, amenities and resources. He or she may also point out parking areas, study locations and the best way to navigate the campus. This will help alleviate a fish-out-of-water feeling on the first day of class.

Secure financial aid if necessary.

School is expensive, but keep in mind that scholarships and other forms of financial aid are not exclusive to younger learners. Visit with a financial-aid counselor about programs that might be available to you as an adult returning to the classroom. In addition, check with your employer to see if the company offers incentives for returning to school.

Brush up on school skills.

Start reading more to refresh your vocabulary and other language skills. College involves critical thinking and reasoning, so explore free online courses or games that cover critical-thinking skills. Refresh your memory on basic writing rules if essays and reports will be part of your curriculum. Honing your academic skills in advance of returning to school can help you start off on the right foot.

Create a support system.

Going back to school will require you to rearrange schedules and make certain sacrifices. Such adjustments may require the assistance of friends and family. Stop by your school’s student services department and ask if it offers help for nontraditional students. The staff may provide guidance on balancing work, life and school. Such departments may also assist you with scheduling classes at the times of day that fit best with your work schedule. — Courtesy of Metro Creative

Photo by iStock Older adults now make up a significant portion of many college and university student bodies. Many adults return to school for personal reasons or to advance their careers. Having a plan in place can help make the transition from working professional to student go smoothly.