The demand for Adult Education is on the rise

Lifelong learning is critical for personal growth, updating skills for the workplace, advancing a degree, and fulfilling a passion or interest. Find out why adults are returning to school in record numbers.

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Tips for Non-Traditional Students

• Manage your time effectively Students need to be prepared to dedicate the time needed to learn. When taking an online course, it can be easy to procrastinate and surf the Internet instead of studying. Students need to be prepared to schedule time for their homework and studies and stick to it.

• Polish up your writing skills Whether taking online courses or face-to-face classes, communication is essential. Good written communication skills come in handy whether emailing comments for online discussions
or completing a ten-page philosophy paper.

• Embrace your life experiences Experience is often the best teacher. Use it to your advantage.

• Ask for help when needed When taking an online class, don’t be afraid to contact your instructor with questions or concerns. The same goes for taking a class on campus. Ask when you need help. That’s why your instructors are teachers. They want you to learn the material.

• Never lose sight of your goals When the going gets tough, remind yourself why you decided to return to school. Post a message on the fridge for inspiration. Think of how proud you’ll feel when you have that degree in your hand, and how much your life will change—for the better—in the future.
 

Twin Cities Adult Education Alliance

About us:

The Twin Cities Adult Education Alliance is a consortium of colleges and universities in the Twin Cities metro area that have come together to share adult education options with working adults and employers in the area. Our goal is to provide a “one stop shop” for employers who want to encourage the growth of their employees and for working adults who are thinking about going back to school but don’t know where to begin.
 

What advice do you have for adults concerned about balancing school, work, and family obligations?

If you are committed to furthering your education, you can make it happen. It will require determination and sacrifice, but many adults with work and family obligations manage to fit it in. Adult
students find a way to maximize their time to fit school into their life.
 

What tips do you have for those thinking about returning to school?

Find a school that is going to help you finish and a school that honors the work/family/life balance. Find a school that has a solid reputation and a school that fits your values and goals.