I'm 26 and entering college for the first time, tomorrow. I waited so long to enter school...well, let's just say family circumstance change (read: newly single mom). I was wondering if anyone else started their college education later, and what advice do you have for me?
Thanks in advance,
Flamingo
2006-09-04 05:28:51 · 57 answers · asked by Anonymous in Education & Reference ➔ Higher Education (University +)
I am going into become a Registered Nurse.
2006-09-04 05:52:40 · update #1
First of all good luck! I was a single mother and had to go to college while working at a full time job. It is hard but you can do it. It paid off very well for me.
1. Sometimes you will get very frustrated. If you feel overwhelmed just remind yourself how good it will be at the end.
2. It will be very hard on your kids, but make sure to pay enough attention to them. Remember you are not the only one who is going through a big change.
3. Keep positive attitude. Things always have a way of working out. Especially for those of us who works hard.
4. Don't regret any decision you make. At times you will hesitate. It is normal.
5. Set goals and do your best to accomplish them. even if things change make new plans.
6. Don't give up. Remember everything is for your kids.
7. Take one day at a time.
I wish you the best luck :)
2006-09-05 03:27:32 · answer #1 · answered by Cilek 3 · 85⤊ 8⤋
My husband, my brother-in-law, and my sister-in-law all started college later than the average bear. So they were typically the oldest person in their classes. Your maturity will probably work to your advantage because you will be more disciplined to study, do your research, pay attention in class and all that jazz. Those things are essential for a successful college experience. The only other thing I would suggest is be sure to join study groups and things of that nature if you are able, but don't get caught up in the college scene. It's distracting, typically involves immature activities, and just not for a mom that has a goal in mind for her future and the future of her children. And do your best not to talk down to the youngens that think they know everything and will say really unrealistic, incredibly stupid things in your presence. Just be smile and tell them you will find out soon enough. Don't want to make enemies or hurt the feelings of the babies you will be in class with. They are babes, they just don't know it. Study hard, don't give up, and when you get discouraged look into the sweet face of your babe(s) to remind yourself why you are working so hard.
2006-09-05 06:07:33 · answer #2 · answered by Bubbles 4 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Congratulations on making the right decision for your (and your children's) future! You sound like a squared-away, far-sighted individual.
I started college when I was 43; I'm 44 now and will be finishing my first year in the winter term. In one of my math classes there was a wonderful lady who was 70 years old and just starting college - you're never too old to learn!
Stick with it! There will be times when you will get discouraged and feel like quitting. Keep your eyes on the prize. Your life, and that of your children, will be MUCH improved when you earn your nursing degree. You will earn plenty of self-confidence and set a good example for your children.
Learn to manage your time well, and not waste a minute of it. You will need a lot of time to study, just as I do. I have a job that requires time management skills, so it wasn't hard for me to adapt.
You will find that you're much more mature and knowledgeable than your fellow students who are coming right out of high school. Use that to your advantage.
Above all; have fun, learn a lot and do a good job! We're all rooting for you!
2006-09-05 05:22:57 · answer #3 · answered by sandislandtim 6 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Hi. I re-entered school at 29 to become an RN. It took me 4 yrs instead of 2 to 3, but having 2 small children (5yrs), the slower pace actually worked out better for me.
My advice is to keep plugging, really. It can only be to your benefit in the long run, so even though it may get tough at times, it's all worth it. Make sure you arrange reliable daycare and have a backup -- that was my biggest hurdle.
I used to sit at the table after dinner and "do homework" with my kids (they'd color); those are some of my fondest memories. Even though the times were tough and money was tight, my kids remember, as well; and I think they were the proudest of me when I finally graduated.
Best of luck!
2006-09-05 04:28:12 · answer #4 · answered by widderkin 1 · 5⤊ 0⤋
I am 47. I still take college classes. You are never too old to learn and it is hard when the babies are small, I went to beauty college with a 2 and a 3 year old at home, so I know it is not easy, but you CAN do it! Keep your mind focused on the big picture and give it all you've got. There is immense satisfaction amd much better pay with an education under your belt. When you get feeling tired, take a small break. Meditate as you are able to do and do nice things for yourself too, so you won't burn out. Try to stay balanced and try not to overload yourself.
Best wishes to you.
2006-09-04 13:41:46 · answer #5 · answered by rie_helm 1 · 7⤊ 0⤋
I congratulate you!
Your maturity will be a real help. You have good advice. Trade it for study help.
Write everything down, have a written organizer as well as a pda, and a recorder. Arrange to cover and be covered if you must miss a class, with a neat note taker. Find students who just took the class and listen.
Find your teacher's interests and learn enough to ask a question or two, you will be a friend, a cut above student.
Your time is all that you have: budget it.
Could there be several mothers like you for a babysitting club?
Don't forget to enjoy it, and work on the classes that are difficult first.
Good luck, and effort is even better!
2006-09-04 10:54:14 · answer #6 · answered by helixburger 6 · 5⤊ 1⤋
You go for it lady. RN is a very valuable and open job field.
Advise is prioritize, time for the family, time for you, and time for studying. The next two years will be busy and looking back you will wonder how you did it but very glad that you did.
Where I live the majority of college students at UNLV are mature. Maturity means you know what your goals are, how to set priorities, etc. Mature students success better than those young ones who haven't figured out who they are and where they are going.
Best advise. Enjoy and remember the goal you have set on those days when you feel the weight of the world on your shoulders.
2006-09-05 04:31:31 · answer #7 · answered by banananose_89117 7 · 3⤊ 0⤋
I want to congratulate you on your decision to return to school. I too have returned to school after more than 26 years. I am 48 years old and going back to school was a scary decision for me. I will be graduating in June 2007 with an associates degree in accounting.
Focus on each class individually. Commit to doing your best and don't be afraid to get help if you need it. Ask all the questions necessary to get a clear understanding of what is expected, (I do).
Remember, You are worth it.
Good luck!
2006-09-04 14:36:28 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 5⤊ 0⤋
Just know that your decision to return to school is wonderful! Congratulations on making a positive change in your life that can only make your circumstances better. It's not easy but you can do it. Once you get to campus you will be amazed at the many mature adult students you'll see! All of them made that same decision and had those very same doubts! The trick is to keep on going, no matter what. I think learning is an ongoing process that never really stops, only gets sidetracked for a while...life sometimes gets in the way! Visualize yourself wearing those scrubs, go ahead and buy a set to hang in the closet as a reminder of your goal. Don't loose sight of your goal, keep it always in the cross-hairs! Your kids can help you get motivated, they are great optimists.
If they are too young for that, just look into their precious little faces for the strength you need to make it through. I believe in you. You'll do great.
2006-09-04 10:02:45 · answer #9 · answered by buddhafuldreamer 3 · 8⤊ 1⤋
I'm going to begin with 18, but where i study there are a lot of older people. The main piece of advice should be that you're on the same level than everyone else, that means that the age difference is not to be ever considered.
Have fun, share your experience and have luck with the studies.
2006-09-04 22:37:48 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 4⤊ 0⤋
Congratulations on your decision, and good luck.
I think you'll find it an advantage to be a few years past the trust-funders and frat crowd who are more focused on hooking up with some hottie than they are with studying to make the world a better place.
Just show up for your classes, suck up to the prof a little bit in the first couple of classes, and study. And you should be fine.
And if some guy starts hitting on you, just say, "Sure, you mind if I bring my son/daughter along?" That should keep them out of your hair.
2006-09-05 03:18:36 · answer #11 · answered by Lawn Jockey 4 · 3⤊ 0⤋