Six Rules for Non-Traditional Students

As you learn in every introductory sociology course in the country, we all play many roles; parent, employee, neighbor, boss, sibling, etc. The role of student can be a bit strange for those of us who return to college as an adult. But, it is a role in which we can be successful if we follow a few simple rules.

1. Make the effort to meet your classmates. Whether you choose an online degree program or a campus-based degree program, connecting with others will help you become more engaged. And, dozens of surveys have shown that engagement and academic success go hand in hand.

2. Be sure to get off to a good start. Take a relatively light credit load during your first semester, and adhere strictly to a daily study schedule. If you start strong you are far more likely to achieve your educational goals.

3. Buy your textbooks as soon as possible. Try to start your reading well before the formal beginning of classes.

4. Be sure you get to know and spend time with your academic advisor. Be candid with him or her about your educational objectives, career goals, strengths, and weaknesses. If you do not find your advisor helpful, request another advisor immediately. Do not wait.

5. Put together a detailed calendar with all of your assignments, major papers, and exams. Then structure your study time so that you have a daily schedule which will allow you to meet assignment due dates and be well prepared for exams. This has long been a “trick” of successful students.

6. Let your family and friends know that you are returning to college and tell them what you believe further education can do for you. If those who mean the most to you know how much additional education means to you they will understand if your academic responsibilities sometimes have to be your highest priority.

Despite the numerous challenges they face, adults who continue their educations almost always do so successfully. And they are extremely well respected by their classmates and professors. You can be as well.

Daniel Z. Kane is a career educator who has helped high school, college, and graduate school students make educational and career decisions. He now publishes educational websites which include information on online degrees and online colleges.