Posts Tagged ‘adult learner’
Wednesday, May 12th, 2010
The end result of going back to college as an adult learner is, hopefully, having a different or better job at the end of it.
Keep that goal in mind while you’re in college, and you’ll be able to develop a game plan for when you graduate.
But why wait until graduation is near to work toward that goal? Instead, get your resume perfected now.
“Often I have heard students and alumni state that they have applied to 50 jobs or more, but have received no responses!” says Sharitta Gross, program coordinator for the Office of Cooperative Education & Career Services at the Rochester Institute of Technology. “Every industry has its own buzz words, so the skills you would need to be a Senior Administrative Assistant versus a Case Manager would differ.
This may also mean that you will have more than one resume if you have a variety of interests.
Job postings tend to contain key words that you should implement to show an alignment between your skills set and the needs of the company or organization. Remember: the average resume gets about seven seconds of review!”
Seven seconds? Wow.
What can you do to impress a potential employer in seven seconds?
Well, going back to college for a degree in your field can help. Search today to see what degree YOU will pursue!
Tags: adult learner, bachelors degree, back to learn, back to school, college, get your resume together, Laura Jeanne Hammond, perfecting your resume, resume, RIT, Rochester Institute of Technology, Sharitta Gross
Posted in Blog | No Comments »
Tuesday, April 13th, 2010
You look around the classroom, pencil poised and mind open. You’re a college student again!
But then you get the sinking feeling that not only are you the oldest student in class, but that you are likely the same age as most of the students’ parents.
If you’re heading back to college at a traditional undergraduate on-campus program, it is possible that you may be the oldest student in your classes.
But who cares? You shouldn’t. Remember, once you’re in college, you are, for all intents and purposes, an adult—whether you’re 21 or 41.
These aren’t kids you’re in school with; they are now your peers.
Here are some benefits of being an adult learner:
* You have a good idea what you want to do with your degree after graduation.
* You have more experience balancing life, work and school commitments than younger people do.
* You get to be a role model to your family, your children, and the other students at the college.
* You don’t have to deal with some of the social pressures that some of your younger fellow students face during college.
* You can draw from life experiences to illustrate class concepts and essay topics.
* You can apply what you’re learning in class directly to your job.
* At the end of a long week, you can (legally) kick back with a cocktail, unlike the other underclassmen!
Hope that last one made you smile!
What has your experience been? Have you been the oldest in any of your classes?
Tags: adult learner, BackToLearn.com, going back to college, inspiration for adult learners, oldest student in class, why you should be an adult learner
Posted in Blog, Inspiration | No Comments »
Monday, April 5th, 2010
The perks of an online degree are many, especially for us working adults.
Let’s see…there’s the commute (5 seconds), wardrobe flexibility (bathrobe OK), class schedule (work school around work) and ever-growing acceptability in the workplace.
Are you thinking about an online degree? What’s holding you back? Or if you’re already in a program, what are the benefits and challenges of learning online? Share!
Tags: adult learner, back to learn, earn a degree online, earning a degree online, Laura Jeanne Hammond, online degrees
Posted in Blog, Choosing a College | No Comments »
Friday, March 26th, 2010
As an adult learner, you’re not going to be bunking up with an 18-year-old from Iowa in your new cinder block dorm room.
But still. There’s merit to chancing it with your roommate, don’t you think?
Freshman year, I roomed with a fellow freshman from Washington state with a penchant for listening to firey sermons on tape—sans ear phones. Year after that, I got matched with a quiet freshman whose name I can’t even remember. Jennifer? Christina? Melissa? Hmm… D’oh, can’t remember. (In my defense, I was only with her one semester before heading abroad.)
Check out what’s happening now for undergrads looking for a dorm mate.
Given the chance now, if you were heading to college and living on campus, would you choose your roommate—or chance it? What do you recommend your kids do?
Tags: adult learner, adult learners, backtolearn, being the oldest, choosing a roommate, college, dorm living, getting your bachelor's degree, Inside Higher Ed, Laura Hammond, living on campus, undergrad
Posted in Blog, Inspiration | No Comments »
Tuesday, March 23rd, 2010
The end result of going back to college as an adult learner is, hopefully, having a different or better job at the end of it.
Keep that in mind while you’re in college, and you’ll be able to develop a game plan for when you graduate.
Sharitta Gross, program coordinator for the Office of Cooperative Education & Career Services at the Rochester Institute of Technology, suggests that adults keep working through college.
“Keep your hand on the pulse of the economy,” Gross says. “It is not always ideal to maintain a job while in college, but one of the biggest challenges that new graduates face is having a lack of experience.
While you can certainly leverage your book knowledge via the coursework you’ve completed, employers are attracted to candidates who show a likelihood of a short learning curve.
If a full-time job is not doable and you only have a few hours to spare, try volunteering at a company or organization that you deem to be a prospective, future employer.”
Today’s adult learners are better able than ever to maintain a job while attending school. There are so many opportunities for college programs that cater to working adult learners. You can choose an online program, an accelerated degree completion program, or enroll as a full-time student.
Your choice is up to you! How will you pursue your degree?
Tags: adult learner, bachelors degree, back for degree, employers, full time job, Laura Jeanne Hammond, RIT, Rochester Institute of Technology, Sharitta Gross, work and college, working while in school
Posted in Blog, Inspiration | No Comments »
Friday, March 12th, 2010
College tuition is one of those items that always seems to be increasing.
Why?
Check out this article for details.
There are some ways you can help pay for college, though. One is by asking your employer to help you!
Have you had any luck getting tuition reimbursement from your employer? Share your story in the comments section below!
Tags: adult learner, back to learn, back to school, BackToLearn.com, cost, financial aid, tuition, tuition for adults, tuition increase
Posted in Blog, Financial Aid | No Comments »
Monday, January 25th, 2010
What’s the best job out there? The worst?
CareerCast ranked 200 jobs based on work environment, stress, pay, physical demands and hiring outlook.
And the best job? Drumroll, please…
Actuary.
Software engineer, computer systems analyst, biologist and historian round out the top five.
The last five?
Garbage collector, welder, dairy farmer, ironworker, lumberjack and roustabout.
If you don’t want to end up in the bottom five, why not start here?
Tags: actuary, adult learner, bachelors degree, best careers, best jobs, careers, computer systems analyst, declare major, software engineer, top jobs
Posted in Blog, Careers | No Comments »
Wednesday, January 20th, 2010
If you’re trying to decide between online or on-campus learning—or aren’t sure of the pros and cons of each—check out the descriptions of common teaching styles below from Western Governors University.
Traditional college courses: Led by instructors, are delivered online, requiring students to attend at prescribed times and sometimes requiring group projects. School terms are generally divided into traditional semesters or quarters, and students may only start work on their degrees at the beginning of these terms. Students earn credit for time spent in class and completion of assignments, projects, and tests.
Competency-based programs: Provide students with learning resources in degree subject matter, allowing students to study and learn on their own schedules, advancing in their degrees as they demonstrate mastery of the content through tests and other assessments rather than simply spending time in class.
Combined online/traditional programs: Require students to attend class both online and in person.
BackToLearn.com’s college search tool includes both online and on-campus programs. Which will you choose?
Tags: academic programs, adult learner, bachelors degree, back to learn, BackToLearn.com, college planning, college search tool, Laura Jeanne Hammond, on campus classes, online classes, online degree, teaching styles, Western Governor's University
Posted in Blog, Choosing a College | No Comments »
Wednesday, January 13th, 2010
When you’re looking for a college, attend the information sessions, and don’t hesitate to drill the admissions reps present. After all, it’s serious time and money you’re about to put in to college.
To get to know a college better, Gary Brahm, chancellor of Brandman University, suggests:
• Using social networks to see what current and past students say about the college.
• Ask employers in the field about their perceptions of the program.
• Ask the college about graduation rates, prominent alumni and special programs.
Looking for a college? Check here.
Tags: academic programs, adult learner, back to learn, back to school, BackToLearn.com, Brand, Chapman University, college, college interviews, employers in the workplace, Gary Brahm, interviewing colleges, Laura Jeanne Hammond, researching colleges, social networks, what college should I go to
Posted in Blog | No Comments »
Monday, January 11th, 2010
The National Association of College Stores (NACS) has some great suggestions on how to be smart about buying textbooks for college.
Check out their suggestions:
* Buy used books when possible. They can save you 25% off the cost of a new textbook. College stores strive to provide as many used textbooks as possible, but they often sell out quickly. Shop the store early or buy directly from your college store’s web site to take advantage of used book sales.
* Consider renting or purchasing electronic texts. More and more college stores are offering these options, which give cost-conscious students temporary access to course materials for about one-third to half the price of buying a new text.
* Find out if your campus bookstore has a page on Facebook; become a fan and follow them on Twitter. Often the store will give advance notice of moneysaving specials to followers or fans.
* Don’t forget to include shipping expenses in the total cost of the textbook. To avoid delays, check your college store’s Web site for ordering convenience and peace of mind.
* Know your store’s refund policy, especially deadlines. This way, you won’t be disappointed if you drop a class.
* Keep receipts. Most stores require them for returns. Also, textbook receipts are helpful during tax season when filing for the new American Opportunity Tax Credit.
* Don’t write in or unwrap books until you’re certain you’ll be keeping them.
* If you have a choice between buying a textbook by itself, or packaged with a study guide or software, make sure you need the extra offerings.
* When buying locally, consider paying cash or by check/debit card to avoid credit card fees and interest. But use a credit card when buying from online sellers in case disputes arise.
* If you have questions, ask!
Once you make the decision to go back to learn, you’ll be able to save tons on textbooks!
Tags: adult learner, BackToLearn.com, buying books, college books, financial aid, National Association of College Stores, textbooks
Posted in Blog, Financial Aid | 1 Comment »
Thursday, January 7th, 2010
Yesterday, I reported that my city had recorded 96 hours of consistent snowfall. While driving home last night, the radio weather guy informed me that we were, in fact, up to 116 hours of snow.
It just got real in here.
So enough about just talking about online programs; while you’re hibernating today under a Snuggie (you know you have one; I got this one for Christmas), why not get more info on a few programs!
Here are two to get you started:
* Saint Leo University
* Rochester Institute of Technology
* Search for loads more colleges—offering both online and on campus degrees—here.
Tags: academic programs, adult learner, back to college, back to learn, career change, college information, Laura Hammond, online classes, online degrees, Online programs, Snuggie, winter
Posted in Blog, Choosing a College | No Comments »
Wednesday, January 6th, 2010
It took double my normal commute time to get home last night. And it has been snowing consistently in my city for going on 96 hours!
Yep, it’s definitely winter in the Northeast!
For all you others in the snowy north, don’t online classes sound pretty plum right about now?
Only one drawback: No surprise snow days!
Tags: adult learner, adults back to school, bachelors degree, back to learn, back to school, BackToLearn.com, benefits of online degrees, Laura Jeanne Hammond, online degree, should you do online degree, taking online classes
Posted in Blog, Choosing a College | No Comments »
Monday, January 4th, 2010
When my husband went back to college to complete his bachelor’s degree, I did more than my fair share of nagging.
Big mistake.
Here’s my biggest advice for those with spouses heading back to college: Let them do it with minimal nagging from you.
That doesn’t mean your spouse doesn’t have your support, your help or your attention. It just means that you need to remember that it’s they, not you, who are a student again. It means they, not you, have to worry about exams, deadlines and homework. They, not you, need to stress about completing assignments the best they can.
Your spouse has made the decision to go back to college. Give them the support and encouragement they need—without adding to the stress!
Tags: adult learner, advice for going back to college, advice for spouses, back to learn, BackToLearn.com, Laura Jeanne Hammond, married in college, spouse in college
Posted in Blog, Inspiration | No Comments »
Monday, December 28th, 2009
You’ve heard the warnings about online diploma mills, scholarship scams and other dangerous “educational” offerings lurking on the Web.
But how’s a busy adult learner supposed to tell the difference between reputable online universities and those they should avoid?
Western Governors University offers these questions to ask to pick an online school that will advance your knowledge—not just take from your pocketbook.
1. Does the school offers the degree program you need to advance your education and career? For example, if you’re considering a teaching degree, will it prepare you to be licensed as a teacher?
2. Are the programs challenging and rigorous enough to be worth your time and expense?
3. Is the school accredited?
4. Are employers willing to hire graduates of this online university?
5. How does the degree program work? Will you attend classes via webinar, study independently, be required to visit a physical campus?
6. How much will it cost?
7. What type of help and support does the school offer its students?
Tags: academic programs, adult learner, avoid a diploma mill, Choosing a College, college advisers, questions to ask, Western Governors
Posted in Blog, Choosing a College, Uncategorized | 1 Comment »
Tuesday, December 22nd, 2009
I’m working hard to finish up a few projects before the office clears out for the next week and a half.
I stayed up late last night to wrap presents when I just really needed to sleep.
I am looking at all my deadlines in the first week of January and…
…Taking a deep breath. I’ll prepare for them, sure, but ’tis the season to stop and rest, not worry and stress.
It’s such a rare gift when your office, your family, your country disconnects, gathers with loved ones and takes a break. But when the gift is presented, take it. Take the time to stop and rest.
What did you do this past year about which you’re most proud? What do you want to do in the coming year?
I hope your answer revolves around your education. Now’s the time to start thinking about going back to learn.
Start your new year off with a plan—and get ready to achieve it!
Happy holidays from BackToLearn.com!
Tags: academic programs, adult at college, adult learner, back to learn, back to school, BackToLearn.com, happy holidays, Laura Hammond, new year
Posted in Blog, Inspiration | No Comments »
Thursday, December 17th, 2009
Browse through the tuition and fees part of any college Web site, and you’ll likely have this reaction: “Why’s college so expensive?” And: “How am I going to afford this?”
But chances are, you won’t have to cough up that entire sum once or twice a year, which is an intimidating prospect.
Instead, ask your college’s financial aid office about any payment plans offered. A payment plan breaks up the amount you owe a college over the course of the semester, year, or course.
Even if you don’t pay 100 percent of your tuition through a payment plan, paying even a little will help you avoid taking out more in student loans than is necessary.
And think of how it will feel to graduate from college as an adult learner—debt-free (or close to it)!
You’ll be able to pursue a new job, new career, new location, and your new free time without the burden of student loans.
Tags: adult learner, adult student loans, college, financial aid, Laura Hammond, paying for college, student loans for college
Posted in Blog, Financial Aid | No Comments »
Tuesday, December 15th, 2009
Even if you choose to attend college online, you still want to be advised and cared for as if you were a traditional student living in the dorms.
Western Governors University suggests asking these questions before enrolling to make sure you’ll be connected on campus—whether you’re on campus or online.
- Is each student assigned an advisor or mentor?
- How often will the student be able to communicate with an advisor, and who will be available to provide extra help and support if needed?
- Is there an online student community?
- Are there learning communities for specific degree programs?
- Are online study groups available?
Tags: adult learner, adult student advising, bachelors degree, back to learn, BackToLearn.com, college advisers, connecting to campus, Laura Hammond, online degree, online learning
Posted in Blog, Choosing a College | No Comments »
Monday, November 9th, 2009
If you’re going to be working while earning your degree, you’re not alone.
Actually, working while going back to college is very common for adult learners. And with the plethora of flexible schedule options—such as night, evening and weekend classes—it’s easier than ever to do both at the same time. Adult learners can find college degree programs that meet just once a week, too. Or classes that are online and don’t require any on-campus classroom time.
If you’re working while learning, you can apply your new knowledge to your workplace for immediate benefit. And your paycheck can help you cut down on the amount of student loans you’d otherwise have to consider.
Gary Brahm, chancellor of Brandman University, offers these tips on handling both work and school responsibilities.
• If it makes sense, talk to your employer about what schools and degrees would be most useful for your current and future jobs/industry.
• Ask if there’s a tuition reimbursement plan available. You’ll likely have to articulate how your increased education will benefit both you and your employer.
Tags: adult learner, bachelors degree, back to learn, back to school, Brandman University, career change, college, Gary Brahm, Laura Jeanne Hammond, talking to employer, working in college
Posted in Blog | No Comments »
Tuesday, October 20th, 2009
When adult learners think about heading to college, they tend to put a lot of stress and anxiety on the front end: where to go, what to study, how to make it work.
But Sharitta Gross, program coordinator for the Office of Cooperative Education & Career Services at the Rochester Institute of Technology, reminds adult learners to be clear about the end result, too.
Before you head back to college, research the career or industry you want to enter or excel in. Make sure the programs you’re considering will help you develop the skills necessary to enter that field.
Also, get an understanding of the job prospects you might find after graduation.
“Depending on your interest, the local climate may or may not present an abundance of opportunities,” Gross says about the job market. “Knowing what you are facing, which could include taking on an out-of-the-box job that includes some of the duties you’d like to perform, can ease some of the stresses of a job search.”
Tags: adult learner, bachelors degree, back to learn, back to school, Laura Jeanne Hammond, picking a career, picking a major, RIT, Rochester Institute of Technology, Sharitta Davis
Posted in Blog | No Comments »
Monday, October 19th, 2009
The end result of going back to college as an adult learner is, hopefully, having a different or better job at the end of it. Keep that in mind while you’re in college, and you’ll be able to develop a game plan for when you graduate.
I asked Sharitta Gross, program coordinator for the Office of Cooperative Education & Career Services at the Rochester Institute of Technology, for some advice for adult learners looking to increase their marketability.
Today’s tip is to find a mentor in your field.
“Obtain a mentor who is established in your desired field and have them to review your resume,” Gross says.
“While job seekers are often encouraged to have their resume reviewed by as many people as possible, conversing with someone who has longevity in the field is invaluable. Additionally, this type of individual can provide feedback that will not only reflect an insider’s view of their environment, but give you legitimate tips on how to increase your marketability as it relates to your resume format and job search strategies.
This also includes conducting mock interviews to strengthen your interviewing skills.
As they continue to get to know you, they will be able to vouch for your work ethic and strengths, making them an excellent reference when you apply for jobs.”
Tags: adult learner, bachelors degree, back to learn, back to school, college
Posted in Blog | No Comments »
Friday, October 16th, 2009
Check out these colleges with tuition of $30,000 a year…or more.
Yeah, yeah, I know that many students won’t pay the full sticker price, and there are grants and scholarships available that can cover a good deal.
But still.
Can you imagine if you were one of the students—or parents—paying $120,000 for a degree, not including room, board and incidentals?
Tags: adult learner, back to school, college, financial aid, how much does college cost, tuition
Posted in Blog, Choosing a College | No Comments »
Monday, August 17th, 2009
Math is usually required, but it’s doable.
Having to take a math class is a fear many adults have when returning to school. But each major and school has different requirements, so unless you are going for a math, science or engineering-based degree, you may have choices in how you complete this requirement.
Frequently, students are asked to take a math assessment test prior to starting classes. This test helps the school figure out what math level you should be placed at. Also, most schools offer a free math tutoring service for students. Take advantage of it if you need the help.
Tags: adult learner, math class
Posted in Back To School Articles | No Comments »
Monday, August 17th, 2009
Mathematics is a sequential discipline, taught in order of difficulty and process, leading students from one level to the next. Where you begin the sequence as an adult learner is the key.
“I think the best thing that returning adult students can do in preparation for taking a math class is to get good advice about what course level they should be placed at,” says David Weinstein, a college and university professor with nearly 30 years of classroom experience.
As is the case with English studies, do not be disheartened with low proficiency test scores or placement in a remedial course.
“It is better to underestimate one’s own abilities and take a course that is partially review in nature rather than overestimating one’s own abilities and getting blown away by the material,” Weinstein advises.
Schools frequently provide free math tutoring through learning resource centers. The centers usually have a collection of instructional media and offer guidance in their usage. Some centers hold seminars on topics such as math anxiety and test-taking strategies.
Tags: adult learner, math courses
Posted in Back To School Articles | No Comments »
Monday, August 17th, 2009
If you cannot find an extracurricular organization that fits your interests, you can start your own group on campus. You may want to start an organization for nontraditional students, or perhaps for students who are also parents. Different colleges and universities have different systems for starting student organizations, but almost every school has a system that shares certain steps.
- Find some founding members
One student does not a group make. Talk with peers in your classes about your idea. Post some information and hold an informational session where you share your idea for a new group. Collect attendance sheets or petition signatures to demonstrate to the school the appeal of the new organization.
- Decide what your group will do
How often will your club meet? What will be the purpose of the group? How much money will it need to fund what activities? By discussing the group with other interested people, you will be able to create a short document outlining the details of your proposed organization.
- Find a faculty supporter
Ask a professor to serve as a faculty sponsor. The professor may have questions about how much of a commitment will be required. You will find, however, that many professors are willing to sponsor well-considered groups.
- Present your organization for funding
The next step is to present this information to the decision makers at your school to create a formal group eligible for funding. You may need to present the information to the student government, the dean of students, or another committee set up to create new groups.
Once your group is recognized, all that is left is to conduct the business of the new organization.
Tags: adult learner, fit in, Sean Michael Green
Posted in Back To School Articles | No Comments »
Thursday, August 6th, 2009
Lisa Jackman worked in the IT field without any IT training—until now.
Jackman, from Herriman, Utah, is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in IT/IT security at Western Governors University.
With a degree adding to her work experience, Jackman hopes to earn a higher salary—even if it means having to carve out time for homework and studying in the meantime.
For Jackman, being an adult learner has been a bonus.
“Don’t be intimidated by younger students,” she says. “Adult learners have life experience to lean upon when going through each class, and that is invaluable!”
Also consider your work preferences and the level of your dedication when you’re choosing a college to attend.
“Don’t attend an online-only college if you do not have the discipline to study alone and are not self-motivated,” Jackman says. “Sign up to be 100 percent dedicated to finishing, and you will succeed!”
Tags: adult learner, Lisa Jackman
Posted in First Person Stories | No Comments »
