Anxious About Being an Adult Student? Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Worry

Deciding to return to school as an adult student requires a lot of courage. That said, many adult students face an unspoken obstacle — that of being a non-traditional student. In other words, as an adult who has been out of school for a while, you are a bit older and in a different stage of your life than the typical traditional recent high school graduate. 

Many students face fear and social anxiety because they fear they will stick out due to their age or life stage (e.g. a parent with children). This can negatively impact participation and getting the most out of your educational experience. However, while there is no denying that you might be considered an “older” student, there is no need to worry. Your fellow students, regardless of age, are there for the same reason: getting an education. And you can use your age, experience, and life’s wisdom to help you be successful inside the classroom (be it physical or virtual).

Here is some actionable advice to take if you are worried about your status as an adult student.

Nerves are Natural

That’s right. Being nervous is completely natural, especially when entering a new situation. You do not know how your status as an adult student will affect your experience. In many cases, we tend to think of the worst possible scenario and worry about that being the one thing that happens when, in reality, it is unlikely. What specifically triggers our anxiety will be different for everyone. For example:

• Some students worry about sticking out because they may be older than their classmates. Then, you worry about how others will judge you. But why does this matter? It doesn’t! Be yourself. Everyone has their reasons and life story. In fact, get to know the other students, and you’ll find that everyone has something in common. You are all different. Yet, you may all have anxiety about going back to school and being judged by others.
• Many adult students have a lot riding on their success as an adult student, such as family responsibilities, personal reasons, or work. This can cause fear of failure before you have even stepped into the classroom. Do not let the pressure get to you. Take one day at a time while setting goals for the future.
• Some adult students may be closer in age to the instructor, or the instructor may even be younger than they are. Use this to your advantage in connecting and building a professional relationship with your instructor. But also let your guard down a bit with younger students so that they find you approachable.
• After being out of school for such a long time, many adult students experience a lack of confidence in their ability to keep up with the coursework. You can overcome this by making daily and weekly plans that all guide you toward your goals.

These are all completely valid concerns. However, in deciding to return to school, you have already demonstrated your bravery. Do not let a little fear or worry keep you from achieving your goals. It is never too late to pursue your dreams.

Tips for Anxious Students

When returning to school as an adult student, you might find yourself among younger students. Perhaps some recent high school graduates, even. That is okay. Although no one wants to feel like the odd one out, you cannot change your age or the age of your classmates. Unless someone says or does something that makes you uncomfortable, it is very likely that your age will not be a significant discussion topic. So, abandon this insecurity as fast as possible and dive into the class discussions with energy and enthusiasm.

With that knowledge, walk in with your head held high. You are back at school working to earn your degree. Here are a few more tips to help you overcome your anxiety about returning to school as an adult student. 

Take Some Refresher Courses

If you are worried about being a little academically “rusty” for your return to the classroom after so many years, there are many tools available that will help. You can take refresher courses before enrolling to jumpstart your brain. Start with Khan Academy, the free academic site that offers detailed courses and practice questions for students of all ages. 

Get First-Hand Advice

If possible, research the experiences of other adult students that have attended your chosen school. You can connect with your school’s student life team or alumni organization to try to set up a meeting or call with alumni to better understand what to expect as an adult student. Or, you can visit the school’s social media pages, such as Facebook, to connect with existing students and alumni and solicit their thoughts.

You can also speak to the administrators and instructors at your school for advice. Ask them for their tips when it comes to returning to school after a long absence. You might be surprised at how eager they are to help!

Choose How You Will Address Age Differences

Your age may or may not come up. That said, it is a good idea to be prepared if it does. Will you lean into the age difference by mentioning it during introductions? Will you never mention it unless someone else does first? Does it even matter?

Having a plan of action can help you feel less anxious about any perceived age difference when you walk into a classroom because you will know how to address it in a way that makes you feel comfortable. You can talk about how you went into the workforce, decided to raise a family, or even if you had to take care of someone or be cared for yourself. Your story makes you who you are. Own it and be proud. 

Remember, It’s Never Too Late to Pursue your Dreams

Do not waste time lamenting on the fact that you waited to return to school — be happy that you are there now. You made a wise and brave decision to earn your degree. At the end of the day, you will be walking away with new knowledge, experience, and connections that you did not have before, regardless of your age. 

Treasure the Unique Perspective You Bring

With age comes wisdom, social, and career experience. Even if you are in a class with younger students, you have experiences they do not possess. Connecting with your classmates can provide a valuable opportunity for you to share your experiences and advice. You have a lot to offer your peers. Do not forget that. 

Know that You are Not Alone

Studies estimate that non-traditional adult students, including those who are over the age of 25, make up around 47% of the U.S. college and university population. Therefore, it is unlikely that you will be completely surrounded by 18-year-olds fresh from high school. You will likely be in a classroom with students of various ages and backgrounds with unique experiences and perspectives to share that will broaden your horizons. In fact, at a trade or vocational school, the average age can sometimes top 30 or more. This means that the 20-somethings are the ones that stand out. See, age is merely a number or state of mind. You are all in the learning process together.

Research the Resources Your School Provides

If you are a military veteran or dependent, you may benefit from programs to support you as you earn your education. Additionally, do not make the mistake of thinking that you will be ineligible for traditional financial aid packages such as Pell Grants because you are an “older” student. You may be eligible at any age for grants, loans, and scholarships.

Adult Students Value Schools like IMBC

The Institute of Medical and Business Careers has graduated many adult students into fulfilling careers. At IMBC, every student is empowered to take full advantage of every resource the school offers, from financial aid to career assistance. Staff members work hard to ensure that all students, regardless of age, are able to Discover their S.P.A.R.K.™ and are encouraged to find yours. Want to learn more? Get in touch today.