As a non-traditional adult entering college, you will probably be required to take some type of college placement test. This may include testing in math, writing, reading, and typing. You may need to brush up on your math and other skills, as many, many adults do. There may be basic courses you can take to assist you. Basic computer skills are also needed to succeed in college. Again, if you do not have those skills, find out what courses, training, or tutoring may be available to you.
You will also want to find out about other student services and college policies. You want to learn about and obtain a student identification card, student parking decal (if needed), email services, etc. Be sure to ask questions if you don't understand something.
Please keep in mind, if you did not complete high school, and have thought about college you can still earn a GED and be admissible to many programs, but you will want to find out about any prerequisites for your particular program of study. A prerequisite is a course or condition that must be met or completed before you can move to the next course or phase. In the case of course prerequisites, there may be a course (or courses) that you must successfully complete before you can take the next course in the series or sequence. So, in addition to learning about any prerequisites for your program, you will want to learn about course prerequisites and make sure you take your courses in the proper sequence.
You should also know that many colleges offer students the opportunity to earn college credits for learning that occurred outside the college classroom. Prior Learning Assessment, as it is often called, can be an efficient way to earn credits toward your college degree. The most frequently used method is testing through the College Level Examination Program (CLEP Exams). These are standardized tests that cover a variety of topics and students who pass a CLEP EXAM test receive credit for the class(es) that are equivalent to that particular test.
If you would like to go to college but have no idea what you want to study, you may benefit from some career counseling. You may want to complete some self-assessments to help in generating ideas about areas of interest or an occupation you may choose as your career goal. Certainly some adults go to college because of the opportunities to learn and the personal satisfaction that comes from the experience and not specifically for career enhancement.
Going back to school, particularly as an adult, can be intimidating, but do not let that keep you from trying. As one client suggested, "I will be 50 on my next birthday whether I take classes or not, so I might as well give it a try and see how it works out." You may be surprised to know that many adults become academic overachievers. Failure is not the result of being less than successful at something that you try; failure results when you do not try.
Ms. Davis is a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice providing coaching and counseling for life's transitions; including carer change or job search, as well as loss of job, retirement planning, grief work, coping with an empty nest, and other life planning issues. She is certified as a Master Career Counselor by the National Career Development Association; a Life/work Counselor by the National Employment Counseling Association; and is a Distance Credentialed Counselor. Check out her web site at www.YourCareerPlan.com.
To contact Ms. Davis, please call (513) 665-4444 x3 and leave a personal and confidential message or send an email to YourCareerPlan@cinci.rr.com.
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