I live in the beautiful state of Maine, and I’m a college student of a certain advanced age which shall go unmentioned.
In December 2008, I finished my Associate’s degree in Liberal Studies, graduating with a 3.8 GPA. I have transferred to a four-year university to earn my Bachelor’s in Media Writing, with minors in Business and English. My long-term goal is to be a successful freelance writer.
These are the adventures of a non-traditional student back in school after a long absence.
Hopefully these observations and tips will help others make the transition to academia as adults.
Hi,
I am a 27 year old woman that wants to go back to get another degree. My B.S. degree didn’t get me anywhere, and now I want a career change. I am earning below the poverty level, and am just squeaking by. I want to go back to school full time for photography/ digital arts in the Boston area and work part time. I can’t seem to find any scholarships that I would qualify for. I am currently filling out the FAFSA and then I will see if I qualify for grants and other loans/ Pell Grants/ Stafford Loans etc. I want to go back in the Fall of 2008. Any input?
Thanks,
Jen
If you’re thinking about going back to school in September, get that FAFSA done as soon as possible! Like, now.
When you do your FAFSA, enter all the codes for the schools you’ve applied to (and even schools you’re still just considering). FAFSA will forward your info to those schools, so that when you are (hopefully) accepted, each will offer you a financial aid package.
Chances are, if you’re like me, scholarships will not be a large part of your financial aid package. I do have a few scholarships, but most of my package consists of grants and a subsidized Stafford loan.
If you are are below the poverty line (as I am), you may be eligible for a number of grants (PELL, state, institutional, etc) that higher-income students will not be.
Thanks for stopping by, and good luck!
Hi – Congrats on returning to school. I finished my Bachelors at the ripe old age of 53 and two years later I am now enrolled in Seminary working on a Masters. My point is you are never too old to pursue your dreams! Cheers, Linda
Hello–how are things going? I see you have not posted in a very long time!
Hi, I am 34 years old and am looking at pursuing a Bachelors in the US (I am the citizen of an Asian country). In the country where I live, non-traditional students have no options. In the course of reseaching options, I happened to chance upon the concept of non-traditional students and want to give it a try. How could I learn more about it in order to take myself a step forward. Also, are there courses which restrict intake to non-traditional students so that the median is not stacked up in favor of the non-working traditional student? I am looking for guidance in this matter and am interested in knowing more from someone who has already taken the journey.
@ Jason: Hi, Jason. Unfortunately, I’m not an expert on the admissions process for international students. However, I’m fairly sure that if you’re able to afford the tuition and relocation, AND you can secure all the necessary legal documents (student visa, etc.), your age would probably not be a barrier. But as I said, I’m no expert on international admissions, so you should consult with someone who is.
If you have a particular university in mind, by all means contact the admissions department and find out what the admission process would be for a non-traditional international student. Good luck!