| My high school grades were
terrible. Will I be able to "make it" in college?
High school grades do not foretell how well a non-traditional student
will do in college. Overall, non-traditional students do very well academically.
I've forgotten how to study, how to take notes, how to
prepare for test. If there any help available?
Yes, The Learning Center, located
in Cherry Hall Room 206, provides help in brushing up on all of those
skills. There services are free. Also, there is a university experience
class (UC 175) that covers these topics as well.
Will I be the only older student in my class?
Definitely not! The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reported
that 39% of all postsecondary students were 25 years or older. Twenty-two
percent of WKU undergraduates are non-traditional.
How hard is the transition from the working world back
to being a student?
The transition from being in the working world back to being a student
is challenging just as the transition from college into the working world.
It can be overcome, however, by allowing yourself time to adjust and utilizing
the available support services. The biggest adjustment is after spending
time establishing yourself in your profession, you are essentially returned
to entry-level status. It is also difficult to adjust to not having a
regular income and relying on financial aid
How can credits I have previously earned be applied to my current coursework?
When you are admitted the admissions office will evaluate your previously
earned credit and our advisor will be able to help you determine where
and how previous coursework will be applied to your current situation.
What if I get confused and/or lost when I visit the campus?
Adult students often feel uncomfortable and disoriented during their first
few visits to WKU. The Advising
and Orientation
Offices host orientation days and provide maps
and information to students new to the college campus.
Instructors won't understand that I have other responsibilities
as well.
This is simply not true. Adult students are openly welcomed
in the classroom by most instructors because of their unique perspectives,
maturity, and firm resolve to do well. Establishing good communication
with instructors early in the semester is a key factor in avoiding any
problems. Advisors and the Learning Center Services are beneficial resources
when issues or questions related to communicating within the college setting
come up.
What if I simply can't afford school?
You might be surprised how easy it is to obtain scholarships
and financial aid, if you start your search early. Sometimes your
employer will be willing to help you financially. If not, you can test
the waters by applying for government grants and loans. Scholarships are
also numerous, but you must keep your eyes open for opportunities.
Won't I be on social security before I finish a degree?
Maybe it will take a long time, but this is a bad excuse not to make a
start. Earning college credit can help you advance and earn more in your
current career, whether you earn a degree or not. College classes will
help you grow as a person and give you a sense of accomplishment that
you may be missing in your private or work life.
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