A Degree of Courage: Advice for Adults Returning to School

I started my undergraduate degree at the fairly traditional age of 19, but my economic situation necessitated working for a living and I was limited to one class at a time. Eventually I married and started a family, putting the thought of finishing that degree farther and farther away. Finally I found myself at age 35 with no degree and a resume with a big hole in it.

I had lots of experience in non-profit marketing, but every ad would list "college degree required." Luckily I discovered distance-learning programs and finally finished my bachelor's degree at the age of 37 in the Adult Degree Program (then part of Norwich University).

I remember feeling embarrassed by my lack of a college degree. I felt it was unfinished business and I was smarter than that - wasn't I?

With time working in higher education I've come to realize my story is more and more typical. In the past, adult college students were considered “non-traditional.” This is no longer true. In fact, we have become the fastest growing demographic in colleges across the country.

Once I was empowered with finally earning my bachelor's degree, I was hooked. I went on to earn two master's degrees and a certificate in writing children's picture books.

With the current economic climate being what it is, I've been thinking of many people who are in a similar situation and who find themselves needing to return to school and build up their resumes and experience. But what if they're facing challenges like I did — working, kids, and community obligations — or even struggling with a disability or, just like me, the thought of doing math makes them feel as though they are going to vomit.

I wanted to get some advice for those who are taking this kind of plunge. I wanted practical advice, advice about things you might not feel comfortable talking about with an admissions counselor you don't know on the other end of the phone or via email.

I turned to Anne Connor to get some answers.

Anne has been working in higher education and educational counseling for many years and specializes in helping adults who are returning to school. She's done ESOL, disability and ADA counseling, as well as advising people on things like time management and study skills.

She knows what it takes for people like me to succeed in this quest. Anne runs her own business called Taproot Academic Coaching, an online enterprise in which she offers a full spectrum of support for adult learners returning to school.

Anne, what do you think is the biggest challenge facing an adult returning to college these days?

Article Author: Ann Hagman Cardinal

Ann Hagman Cardinal is a freelance writer as well as the Marketing Director for Vermont Collge of Fine Arts. Her first novel, Sister Chicas--co-authored with two other Latina writers—was released in 2006 by NAL/Penguin Books. …

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