Many of us teach non-traditional students-students defined as over the age of 25, and having one or more of the following qualities: college enrollment delay (not directly out of high school), works and is financially independent, has dependents, is a single parent, or does not have a high school diploma (Melkun, 2012; "Advisory Committee on Student Financial Assistance," 2012). In addition, nontraditional students generally enter college with job and life experience and a diverse range of skills (Zucca, 2014).

One of our jobs as instructors to these students is often supporting and assisting them with special needs since they usually are working and also taking care of a family. They go back to college for a variety of reasons, such as reaching a life-long goal or making more money in their field.

You may have considered joining them. Perhaps you would like to get to another level in your career or simply fulfill a dream of having a terminal degree, so you have toyed with the idea of going back.

But there is so much stopping you.

I thought about starting my EdD, but put it off for two more years. I had young children, was working full-time, and was writing books on the side. "There is no way I have time or the financial support," I told myself.

Then I realized this was something I had always wanted. It was also one of the only ways I could advance in my career. I knew it would be difficult, but with the support of my family and an employee discount, I wanted to try and go for it.

Now my schedule revolves around kids, a new marriage, adjunct teaching (work), and Saturday/Monday DQs and Wednesday assignments. My "free" reading time now is used for reading works related to my dissertation. In order to stay up with my doctoral classes, I bring my laptop with me on vacations and anywhere else I go for more than a day. I recently finished my first full year and I keep considering taking a week or two break. But that will delay my goal. And I want this more than I've wanted anything in a long time. And honestly, this makes me happy. I am passionate about what I'm learning. I find myself lost for hours in articles and essay writing.

So is it tough? Absolutely. Is it worth it? Completely.

One of my favorite parts of my program thus far was my residency. It was here that I met other students who were just like me-working full-time, married and/or raising families, involved in projects and hobbies, and going to school. I was not alone in my struggles, and it was here that I experienced a strong sense of community.

Have you thought about returning to further your education? Weigh the changes you'll have to make along with the possible outcomes. Research schools and programs of your interest. Then consider taking the step to talk to an academic counselor, enroll, and perhaps even take your first course. Just like our students tell us, the hard work will be worth it someday very soon.

References

Advisory Committee on Student Financial Assistance. (2012, February). Pathways to success: Integrating learning with life and work to increase national college completion, a report to the U.S. Congress and Secretary of Education Advisory Committee on Student Financial Assistance. Retrieved from http://www2.ed.gov/about/bdscomm/list/acsfa/ptsreport2.pdf

Melkun, C. (2012). Nontraditional students online: Composition, collaboration, and community. Journal of Continuing Higher Education, 60(1), 33.

Zucca, G. (2014). Classroom course model: A different model needed for adult online students? The International Journal of Technology, Knowledge, and Society, (9), 99-107.