Advantages of Being a Plus 50 Student

While a common perception is that older students are at a disadvantage when compared to those who are straight out of high school, it all a matter of how you frame the situation. The major issue many plus 50 students face is a lack confidence, which has resulted from misconceptions regarding college.

Don't give in to fears and let them hold you back, instead take note of the experiences and skills you have gained from years of working and living life and apply them to a successful educational experience. Below are just a few advantages older students have over their younger counterparts.

Flexibility: Employers are likely to view experienced employees as assets that they can trust, and be may be more flexible with work hours and arrangements (think telecommuting). Regardless of the economy, why wouldn't they want to hold on to a good employee who is looking to improve their functional skills. For those whose primary careers are winding down, or have already retired and are looking at education as a means to obtain an encore career, scheduling is likely to be even less of an issue.

Additionally, community colleges such as Clover Park Technical College are recognizing the needs of older students and offering services and courses designed specifically for plus 50 students, with convenient hours and shorter terms.

Ability to Focus: Work ethic takes time to develop, yet is no less important in college than it is at work. The ability to avoid distractions that detract from an educational experience is a major advantage for older adult students.

Head Start: Due to an abundance of life experiences, older adult students have a head start in areas of general and cultural knowledge. This knowledge allows plus 50 students to frame the concepts being taught from multiple perspectives and better retain the lessons. By adding to the diversity of perspectives in the classroom, older students will also contribute to the learning of others.

Motivated: A high level of responsibility and life experiences translate into older students typically knowing what they want out of college, and having the motivation to obtain it. Also contributing to the increased motivation compared to those with less life experience; plus 50 students are in school because they want to be, not because others expect it of them.