Back to School Tips
If you’re an adult who wants to continue your education, you may feel a bit apprehensive. If so, you’re not alone. While the thought of “returning to learning” may be a bit scary, it doesn’t have to be. The truth is that most adults who go back to school – whether for career advancement or personal enrichment – do very well. The following is expert advice to make your return to school successful.
Tips for Returning to Learning
The skills to successfully return to learning are the skills you’ve developed as an adult juggling multiple responsibilities. The skills that make learners successful -- managing time, setting priorities, asking questions, etc. -- are also what make learners successful. Add motivation and desire to the mix, and the recipe for success is complete. Following are tips to help you succeed:
- Know that you will most likely be successful in school, even if you weren’t in the past
- Determine why you’re returning to learning
- Know you have transferable skills
- Test the waters by taking a few classes - - see How to Take Credit Courses for information on taking courses at the U of M as a non-admitted student
- Make your well being a priority
- Discuss your plans with significant others
Tips for Evaluating a School or Program
If you are considering continuing your education:
- Select three possible educational providers
- Ask each educational provider the following questions:
- What are my educational options?
- How do I apply and get admitted?
- What support services are available?
- What is the cost and what financial assistance is available?
Tips for Succeeding in the Classroom
- Study a little bit each day rather than trying to do all of your assignments on Sunday
- Review your class notes as soon as possible after class to increase retention
- Engage in active vs. passive learning by thinking about the information in a new way
- Study when you are at your best and set aside a quiet place in your home to study
- Set reasonable study goals and take breaks often
While returning to learning can be both exciting and scary, it won’t be boring!
