Returning To Learning

Every day, Janet Pelto talks with people who are reshaping their personal and professional lives. Some have returned to college to enhance the knowledge and skills needed in their current career. Others are preparing for a job in an entirely new field.

These individuals include an administrative assistant who's learning about human resource management, a graphic designer who's pursuing a career in horticulture, a cabinetmaker who's studying public policy and a 70-something retiree who's finishing a degree in statistics.

It's Never Too Late

"Nobody's ever too old to go back to school," says Pelto, a consultant at the Career and Lifework Center of the University of Minnesota's College of Continuing Education. "In fact, lifelong learning is the key to retaining your personal vitality and remaining viable in today's job market."

On the national level, adults aged 25 and over made up about 41 percent of the college population in 2000, according to the Bureau of the Census and the National Center for Education Statistics. And it's estimated that by 2010, students 25 and over will number nearly 6.5 million.

Older And Wiser

Many adults who are returning to school worry that they won't do well in their courses. "But older students bring a wealth of experience to the classroom," Pelto says. "For example, successful professionals know how to manage time, set priorities and handle multiple projects. They are also not afraid to ask questions. These same skills make them effective students."

Even if you were a poor student when you were younger, you can excel in school. "You are likely to be a very different student at 40 than you were at 18," Pelto says. "You really are older and wiser."

Ready, Set, Go!

Pelto offers the following suggestions for adults who are thinking of going back to school:

• Do your research. If you want to change careers or become more competitive in your current job, talk to people in the field. Ask them if the program you are considering will help you achieve your goal.

   

• Determine what's important to you. Is it the school's reputation, the cost of tuition or the convenience of the location and the class schedule?
• Choose a program that offers courses in the formats you prefer. Most schools offer traditional lecture-style courses. But many also offer independent study, online courses, internships and credit for learning gained outside the classroom.

   

• Discuss your plans with the important people in your life. Talk to your family and friends about your decision to return to school. Ask for their support — both emotional and practical.

   

• Test the waters. Start by taking one course — one you think you'll do well in. This will build your confidence.
• Make your well-being a priority. Maintain activities that keep you going emotionally and physically. Build them into your schedule.

For more information about the University's career services and programs for adults, visit http://www.cce.umn.edu or call 612-624-4000.