Going back to college at 35

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This topic has 7 replies, 8 voices, and was last updated 8 years, 3 months ago by Tamara Nicole.

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July 17, 2016 at 7:11 pm #109889

vidalevi
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Hi everyone
So, I’m going back to college to finish my studies at 35. And Im going there after a decade leaving my job and everything else.
I’m little bit worried and scared about my coping skills there. There is added pressure that my folks will be supporting me financially through these remaining 2 years of college. But I need this degree to take me to a better place, professionally.
Also the fact that I’m the oldest in my class with all 20-25 years around. I know I have my experience as a positivity with me. But sometimes I feel little overwhelmed thinking about it. I join in a week or so. Any advices or thoughts ? Thanks in advance.

July 17, 2016 at 7:27 pm #109891

Violet
Participant

Hello,

Good for you Vialevi for going through with this; it takes courage to do something that gives you pause!

There are lots of mature (older) students at colleges, I would see if some sort of group exists and if not, start one. It’ll be a great opportunity to meet and make friends with people in the same boat/like minded individuals.

I’d also go to the learning center and figure out a study plan and see what sorts of programs they have for improving your studying, essay writing, coping skills and more.

If you do well academically there are lots of funds available and usually there are some funds allocated for students in need. As well, maybe you could get a part time job on campus — check with the career center.

Best of luck!!

July 17, 2016 at 7:31 pm #109893

Taryn
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Hey, you’re not alone. I’m 28 and going back to college already. I know that I’ll be one of the older students in the undergraduate classes, but that’s okay. We’re there to learn, and honestly, it’s not all that unusual anymore. It’s definitely making me anxious, though.

July 17, 2016 at 7:59 pm #109897
Mark
Participant
Hi vidalevi,

Some good advice I recently read is at nothing that we do is ever as important as we make it seem. You could interpret this in a depressing way, but for me it is comforting. I can almost guarantee you that your younger classmates will barely think twice about your age, if they think about you at all (they are likely filled with their own self-doubts). Whatever you tend to focus on, other people will as well. So if you are in a group discussion and worried about how much older you are than everyone, your group is going to notice something is wrong. Instead, focus on the positive! You got into school, you are wiser and more experienced than most everyone, and it’s simply two years of your life that you probably won’t even remember much of five years from now. Enjoy it!
- This reply was modified 8 years, 3 months ago by Mark.
July 19, 2016 at 2:27 pm #110057

Choccoffeewine
Participant

Congratulations, Vidalevi!

I went back to college after almost 20 years absence and earned my bachelor’s degree at 40 years old. I was slightly concerned about being an older student. However, others really couldn’t care less. I made new friends in and out of my age group and some great contacts! Good for you for going back to learn more.

July 20, 2016 at 10:34 am #110146

Michelle
Participant

I’m 35 and JUST finished by BA. I had been a professional student since 20. You’ll be fine, especially considering that you have full on support from your family. Take advantage of that, respectfully. You’re doing something good for yourself, not bad–so step forward with a positive foot. 😉
I’m actually thinking about going back for my MA. We’ll see.

July 20, 2016 at 3:13 pm #110165

Kriss
Participant

I went back to university to do a Masters at 28… surrounded by a mix of people most of whom were in their early 20s but with some more mature. Went back to do another Masters in my mid-40s again surrounded by much younger people. Now I’m 49 and doing a PhD. I barely see any other humans 🙂 but most of the other students are mid-20s.

It is weird, but you can find your way through it. To be honest the thing I found most difficult was having forgotten all my study skills and essay-writing skills. You could do a lot worse than revise that before you go, and there will be lots of help when you get there with all the non-academic side of things.

Socially I found that I did meet people both my own age and friends who were much younger. We were all doing the same thing at the end of the day. You have the big advantage of having worked out all those stresses and worries that people go through in their early 20s that are a massive distraction from academic work. I think you’ll find friends and fit in really well. Good luck!

July 21, 2016 at 10:24 am #110247
Tamara Nicole
Participant
Good for you!! Im so happy for you! I am only 20 and I’m in college, There are TONS of people your age in all my classes. I LOVE seeing them. I have the most respect for you guys! A lot of them say the same thing you are but we are all there for the same thing! To improve in life and get better at things. You’ll warm up in no time! There is a 70 year old woman in my humanities class.
- This reply was modified 8 years, 3 months ago by Tamara Nicole.
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