A non-traditional college student is someone who is older and is returning to school after years out in the world. Most college students are young and typically attend college right after completing high school. I've taught numerous students over the age of 40. My most interesting semester was one with six students in one class all over the age of 50.

I've Always Enjoyed Older Students

The interesting thing about non-traditional students is that they have spent time working jobs, experiencing life, and are choosing to return to school. "Choosing" is an important factor in determining a person's college experience. Because many non-traditional students have already worked jobs (often low paying) they are returning to school to get better jobs...At least the student's I've gotten to know. Because they are choosing to return to school they work harder to succeed.

There is an appreciation for the education they are receiving that many young people don't have. For a kid to jump right into college after high school, the experience is different than for older people. Younger people haven't had time to struggle at minimum wage jobs while raising kids and paying a mortgage. Older students returning to school often have stories of struggle and appreciate what college can do to better their situation because they've had time to experience life outside of school.

My Most Memorable Student

My most memorable non-traditional student was a woman who was a 55 year old Dominos pizza delivery driver. She was going back to school to get a bachelors degree in counseling so she could get a better job. Being a 55 year old pizza delivery person meant working a job with no status, power, and very low earnings.

I remember this student so well because of her determination. She wanted to help people. She wanted a job that would make the world a better place while giving her life more meaning. I don't think I've ever had a student work as hard as her. Going back to school at 55 years old is hard. Memorizing and studying and learning so many new things is harder the older you get but my student was dedicated to get all A's and reach her goals.

Determination

I sometimes feel younger students don't appreciate college in the same way as older students returning after time off. I don't mean all kids aren't appreciative but many don't realize how lucky they are or how helpful college is for success in life. Today it is the norm for kids to go to college after high school. For those who take breaks in comparison, those people experience how hard it is to succeed without an education.

One thing I see with non-traditional students is a determination to succeed. Being older and having to pay for school out of pocket while holding down a job and supporting a family is a real struggle. I see many non-traditional students working as hard as they can to succeed in school and it is admirable. They want to make their time and struggle worth it and work hard to make good grades so they can have a better life for them and their families.

My 55 year old pizza delivery driver had the odds against her. She had kids at home to take care of, a full time job, elderly parents who needed her care, and more. But she never gave up. I kept in touch with her for a few years and she continued to make all A's as the semesters went by. I don't know what happened to her but I hope she reached her dreams and became a counselor.

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