by Passion Whylie

Created on: March 10, 2009   Last Updated: March 12, 2009

There are no limits to going back to school, especially when you become a adult. College is for any age that a person chooses to go. There are however some problems that may occur when you decide to go to college when you are middle age.

I decided to go back to college in my 30's. This was very interesting. I felt very good about myself and I was proud of the future work and challenge to come. I was ready for anything. College may be for people for all ages but the younger students may not feel the same.

Students that are in their 20's are care free and tend to laugh a lot. They may not take school as serious as you will and this can make group projects a true challenge. As you sit in your little group that was prepared for you by the Professor, you are ready to sit and exchange ideas with your peers. This is where the problem usually start. Imagine trying to convince a person that is much younger than you to stop sending their frineds text messages about where to meet up and to stop looking at a picture of them and their boyfrined on their cell phone. The younger student will want to discuss their fun weekend ahead instead of discussing the project at hand. This is usually when the older student is feeling frustrated and may feel like they have nothing in common with the younger student. You may try to share a few laughs with the younger student but you are actually worried about the assignment. Once you have the student's attention, he or she may show you how simple the project is to them and encourage you to let them do most of the work.

From my experience it is best not to try to fit in with the younger groups in college. This is their break away from home and they do not want to feel that they are with their parents. Don't give advice unless asked. Do not try to correct their behavior at school unless it becomes offensive and is causing delays with your project.

One of the best things for an adult student to do is continue their adult education at home on-line. I find it to be more relaxing and less pressure from the college environment. I am able to complete my work indendently and I can do my work when it's best for me. I can also spend more time with my child.

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