Adult students, those who study in school with ages 25 and older, find it difficult to stay in school most of the time. Full-time jobs, family, personal interests and limited time for study habits can greatly affect them. Whether they are studying online or in campus, it’s very hard for them, especially if they are not single anymore. In addition to this, there are some schools worldwide that discriminate old students from ‘fresh high school graduates’, a fact that is mostly discouraging.
If you’re in the U.S. and you are somehow acquainted with an adult student, you can do these three steps in order for him or her to stay in school:
First Step – Help Him or Her find Financial Aid
Studying is one of the basic necessities humanity requires. But just like others, you can’t get it for free. One way or another, somebody has to pay for your education whether you like it or not. And in the case of adult students, most of them just can’t afford to stay in school because of financial difficulties.
In U.S., however, students, whether old or new, can obtain financial help through the efforts of FAFSA. Just by filling up an application form, understanding its conditions and submitting it before deadlines, adult students can continue their studies with the help of the government. And aside from that, scholarships, given that the student was blessed with the mind of an achiever, can also do wonders. With this, not only can they buy their most-needed books; they can also pay their utilities and bills.
Second Step – Help Him or Her find good Connections
Adult students tend to isolate themselves because they usually think that they can’t ‘go on with the flow’, which is definitely false. Helping them get involved in school organizations will greatly benefit them.
Third Step – Help Him or Her get familiar with School
Now that he or she is somehow acquainted with school, you can somehow help him or her to adjust in this new environment. Help them get involved in school activities like group studies, discussions, etc.