by Leslie Schwab

Created on: August 11, 2009

The current state of our economy has resulted in millions of Americans losing their jobs over the past year. Many of these jobs were sales positions in industries such as real estate, new and used cars, and the food and hospitality marketplaces. Many of these unemployed or underemployed people are between the ages of 35 and 50 years of age. A large percentage are divorced with dependent children. As a college professor at a career college, I have many students that belong to these demographics. They have to endure a number of trials and tribulations that younger students without family responsibilities do not.

For one thing, many express doubts about handling the academic workload and studying for exams. Many haven't been in a classroom as students for more than 20 years. Of all the courses offered at my college, the one that strikes the greatest fear among middle-aged students is college algebra, which is a required course for a college degree. Although the vast majority of these students pass the algebra course, they do require a little extra encouragement and tutoring than those who graduated from high school within the last five years. In addition, I tutor these students in study skills and test-taking strategies to prepare them as new students.

My middle-aged students are the most motivated of all age groups because they HAVE to attain meaningful employment after graduation. The majority of them have children who range in age from two to eighteen. Most also work part-time jobs to get by while they attend classes; jobs that they often dislike having to do, As a result, they often come to class appearing tired and stressed. There are times when some express doubts over completing their education. An occasional pep talk from a faculty member usually gets them back on track, however.

Not all middle-aged students suffer from financial difficulties. A few are married and have spouses who are very successful. These students drive to school in new cars and don't have to work. They are still highly motivated, however, to complete their studies and pursue careers in their chosen fields. A few even choose to work with their spouses in varied business enterprises after they graduate.

Middle-aged students have a more difficult path to follow in completing their educations than their younger classmates. Their hard work and motivation, however, have served to inspire other students, as well as those who teach them.

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