Online learning has completely changed the game for adult students. With expanded access to numerous degrees and courses, students from all walks of life can expand their skill set and discover compelling new concepts.
Going back to school as an adult learner can be far from easy. Working students face complex schedules and other practical challenges. We’re here to help. Keep reading to learn how to balance work and school—and in doing so, leverage the unique advantages of adult learning.
Going Back to School as an Adult
There are many ways to tackle learning as an adult student: returning to college (after a break) to complete your degree, for example, or seeking a new degree altogether. Online education represents one of the most versatile and practical solutions for accomplishing these goals.
The decision to return to school is deeply personal and the process will look a lot different depending on where you currently are in life and what you want to achieve as an adult learner.
Reasons to Return to School as an Adult
Knowing your why is essential, as this will help you develop a more goal-oriented and purposeful approach to your learning initiatives. Commonly cited reasons for returning to school include:
- Career advancement – These days, bachelor’s or master’s degrees often represent minimum requirements, even for entry-level positions. Should you want to advance in your career but have hit an educational glass ceiling, a return to college might be in order. In addition to earning a valued credential, you’ll also develop the high-level skills that today’s employers seek.
- Changing fields or niches – Perhaps you would like to make a lateral move as you seek opportunities in a different sector. Before you make the switch, you may need to address significant skill gaps. This process takes on greater structure and credibility if pursued through a dedicated degree program.
- The joy of learning – Although career concerns are often top of mind, the simple joy of learning also matters. Learning opportunities abound, but college coursework delivers both accountability and access to amazing instructors.
- Sense of satisfaction – Some adult learners return to school simply because college feels like an unfinished chapter. It’s never too late to complete your degree, and, upon graduating, you could gain a huge boost in confidence and self-esteem.
Potential Challenges in Adult Learning
Challenges can be expected when going back to school as an adult learner. These can be overcome, but awareness is the first step. Common obstacles worth considering include:
- Cost of tuition – The cost of a college education is a chief concern among students of all ages and in all phases of life, but this issue hits differently for returning students, who may also juggle mortgages, childcare expenses, or other financial obligations. Thankfully, online coursework is often more affordable, and often, financial aid is available.
- Busy schedules – Scheduling represents one of the greatest barriers among would-be adult learners. Some cannot afford to take time off work, but there is no denying the difficulty of working full time and going to school. Again, this is where online coursework provides a distinct advantage.
- Learning curve after a break – After years of getting comfortable in the workforce, it can be difficult to return to the academic landscape. Research skills may seem rusty. Thankfully, resources are abundant, and understanding instructors and advisors are always happy to help. Plenty of students benefit from exploring adult learning styles and adapting their study habits to fit their current capabilities.
Maximizing the Benefits of an Online Education
We’ve addressed the why of adult learning, but the how of this process also warrants consideration. It takes a strategic approach to optimize the adult learning experience and to ensure a strong return on investment. Opting for an online format can provide a strong start, but other essentials include:
- Making the most of student resources and support services
- Interacting with instructors and fellow online students
- Reflecting on how recently covered academic concepts relate to current workplace pursuits
Building a Support System
A strong support system can make all the difference when navigating adult learning and online programs. When friends and family members are fully on board, it may be easier to find balance. This means different things for different students: for example, family members can step in as babysitters to facilitate more time for studying. Let loved ones in on your educational goals and accept their offers to help.
Do not be afraid to expand your support system beyond the confines of your family or your current friend group. Even if you attend classes exclusively online, you can find camaraderie with fellow adult learners. There are numerous online communities available as are virtual and in-person study groups.
Strategies for Balancing Work and School
Balance is possible, but it calls for exceptional time management, organization, and self-care. Implement these strategies to find and maintain a balance between work and school obligations so you can make the most of your adult learning journey.
Develop a Detailed Time Management Plan
Time management can be a struggle for working students who, despite juggling jam-packed schedules, may be tempted to spend those spare minutes scrolling social media. A detailed plan can ensure that you make the most of every minute while also encouraging you to work smarter, not harder.
Aim for a strategic plan that builds in plenty of time for breaks. This should go beyond simple scheduling to also reveal which tasks are prioritized and, in a pinch, which can be delayed.
Communicate Your Commitments
Many employers support professionals with strong academic ambitions, but they want to be kept in the loop. This means providing details about educational commitments, especially if they might interfere with work obligations. Similarly, commitments must be thoroughly communicated with friends and family members. They will be more supportive if they understand why you’re committed to adult learning and what your current schedule involves.
Set Specific, Achievable Goals
Goals and objectives can bring structure and accountability to your educational pursuits. SMART goals are ideal: specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time bound. Set goals that feel relevant or inspiring, ideally at the beginning of each year or term. For some adults going back to school, these goals align closely with skill development.
Seek Feedback and Support
Collaborative learning exposes you to fascinating and impactful perspectives, so do not hesitate to reach out. You’ll be amazed at what you can learn from fellow students or by getting to know your instructors.
College resources can also boost academic and professional outcomes. For example, learning support services might offer tutoring or testing accommodations. Similarly, an academic resource center could assist with research by giving access to the best databases and materials.
Managing Stress and Avoiding Burnout
Burnout is a common issue in all areas of modern society, and unfortunately, working students are especially vulnerable. Be on the lookout for feelings of fatigue or frustration, especially if accompanied by a sudden drop in motivation. A proactive approach can help; aim to build burnout avoidance into your daily life.
Prioritize and Organize
Harness the power of prioritization to avoid wasting valuable mental capital on concerns that do not matter. Begin by determining what, exactly, is most important now. This will be defined by a blend of urgency and personal meaning. Many students benefit greatly from focusing on the MIT, the most important task that calls for attention in the here and now.
Establish a Routine
The right routine can be the ultimate stress buster, as routines bring comfort and familiarity to your everyday life. The goal: to establish a workable routine that feels helpful, not overwhelming. This should not be confused with your schedule. Routines feel more like rituals, which you can return to when you need guidance. Examples include morning routines to facilitate a positive start to the day, or study routines that help you make the most of every learning session.
Stay Physically Active
Working students spend a lot of time sitting and staring at screens. Breaks are necessary, however, and research suggests that at least some of these should be dedicated to movement. After all, physical activity promises to improve both mood and focus. This can be as simple as taking a short walk, although fitness classes deliver a valuable social element for online learners.
Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
If you start to feel overwhelmed, take a moment to address harmful ruminations. Even a five-minute mindfulness break can provide a valuable reset in times of stress. Focus on deep breathing and let unwanted thoughts float away. Consider joining a yoga class so you can blend two top burnout-busting techniques: exercise and mindfulness.
Set Boundaries
Personal boundaries help adult learners advocate for themselves. This can prevent the gradual buildup of obligations and associated stress. No two adult students will require the exact same boundaries, but a few common parameters worth establishing include:
- Friends and family members need to respect scheduled study times
- Loved ones should not pressure you to take on obligations or participate in activities that interfere with your health or well-being
- Fellow students should demonstrate respect for your ideas or intellectual contributions
Maintain a Positive Outlook
Your outlook can play a powerful role in determining not only your performance in school (and at work), but also, how you feel about that performance. Ultimately, no matter how busy you get or how difficult your coursework seems, your outlook will spur you to continue embracing challenges and making progress.
This suggestion is far from simple, of course, but awareness can make a world of difference. Often, this is best achieved through gratitude journaling: highlighting a few things that you appreciate, even when the going gets tough. Challenges do not need to be ignored, but they can be reframed as opportunities for growth.
Baker Admissions Is Here to Help You Take the Next Step
Adult learning can prove transformative, and, with the right college programs and resources, this journey does not need to be intimidating. At Baker College, we are committed to supporting students from all walks of life, including adult learners. Now that you know how to go back to school as an adult, it’s time to take the next step. Contact us for more information or apply for a degree program you find compelling.