Non Traditional Students Essay

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ADULT STUDENT’S OBSTACLES AND OPTIONS 2
Adult Student’s Obstacles and Options
Adults interested in completing their degree now have a way to reach their goals of higher education. If you look outside of the conventional college education path you will find today’s non-traditional student. It might be surprising to learn that age of the student is really not a factor. Age tends to correlate to the main characteristics that define the non-traditional student. Some of these “characteristics include: having dependents, working full time, online/distant learners, financially independent, enrolled part time” (Ross-Gordon, 2011, para 1). Students that identify with one or more characteristics are considered non-traditional. Nearly …show more content…

As with any important decisions, the possible consequences can be intimidating. Many individuals are working full time and have family commitments. Thoughts of finding a balance between school and life seem like a major undertaking. Parents with young children can feel guilty if loved ones feel neglected. Often committing to a regimented class schedule is not feasible. “Time and finances are cited as the most common barriers faced by adult students” (Gast, 2013 p.18). The extra expense of tuition and financial hardship can be difficult to …show more content…

Did you know over 50% of all adult college students work part or full time?” (Siebert & Karr 2008, p113). This question causes many adults to speculate how it is possible to be a successful student. Exploring your options is the first step to attaining any goal. Evening and weekend courses are available. Many employers offer tuition reimbursement programs and will also consider an alternative work arrangement to accommodate employees that are interested in higher education. More and more courses are available online including associate, bachelor's and master's degree

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