It’s Never Too Late To Go To College

February 1st, 2010

Don’t think college is just for kids; it simply isn’t so. Re-entry or adult students are generally age 25 or over and were once considered the “non-traditional” student. The U.S. Department of Education show these educational demographics are steadily increasing and becoming more the age of the “traditional” student population. Over 50% of the students in college today are over the age of 24. Many of these returning students have spent time in the workforce, the military or raising a family and want to go back to further their education. iStock_000004700238Medium Economic reasons play a significant factor in this decision as many people return to college as a result of businesses closing or company downsizing. Even adults ages 55-79 are starting to return to college to pursue a second career, learn about starting a business or to fulfill a dream of earning a college degree. Breaking new professional ground to change careers and update professional credentials can be a scary undertaking. College admission staff realizes the intimidating nature of this process and many provide special services to assist in this transition.

It takes real ambition to think about returning to College. At times this process may feel complicated, confusing and often frustrating as you navigate the channels of investigating careers, colleges and funding opportunities. You have to think of this as a learning process in itself. And like other things in life after you have done it one time it always seems easier the next time (ie. Feel like you are going crazy registering for your first semester in college, don’t worry the next time it will be much easier).

Knowing the College Lingo

It is important to note there are many educational options to choose from. Your personal goals will lead you to the institution with programs to match your career choice. Do your research and ask questions. (Tips on research and investigating careers may be a topic for another article) Here is a sampling of terminology to be familiar with concerning community colleges and four year colleges or universities and funding options.

Community College:

Adult Basic Education includes English as a second language, basic skills improvement and GED completion.
Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS) lower division transfer two-year degrees are designed to provide the general education foundation to later move on to a four-year degree.
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) two-year degree includes hands-on career specific professional technical education designed to lead to employment. Shorter term Technical Certificates are also offered in career specific areas.
Community Education classes provide personal enrichment in a variety of areas for people of all ages. Programs range from summer youth classes to classes specifically designed for seniors.
Workforce Development provides short-term skill-building programs focused in growing career areas, customized workforce training for businesses, and on-line courses.

College or University:

Undergraduate Degree. A baccalaureate degree or, “ bachelor’s degree” as it is more commonly referred to, requires four-years or more of full time study to complete the degree. There are many areas of emphasis to choose from and the degrees offered will vary by college. Bachelor of Science (BS), Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS), Bachelor of General Studies (BGS) and more. Some colleges may also offer associate degree programs.
Graduate Degree. Master’s and doctoral levels of study. Degrees will vary by area of study.

Funding

FASFA = Free Application for Federal Student Aid . Federal student aid is financial assistance that’s available through the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Federal Student Aid. There are three categories of federal student aid: grants, work-study and loans. This web site will provide additional information www.fafsa.ed.gov
There are government supported funding. Check the web sites for eligibility information.

*Idaho Department of Labor, www.labor.idaho.gov

*Vocational Rehabilitation, www.vr.idaho.gov

*Veterans Services, www.veterans.idaho.gov

*Job Corps, www.jobcorps.gov

Scholarships. Ask the college you plan to attend about their scholarship programs. Also inquire with professional organizations in the field you will be studying.
Employer Assistance. Some companies provide assistance with college tuition

It ‘s never too late to go to college. Become a lifelong learner knowing your education is something you will enjoy the benefits of for a lifetime!