Tuesday, Oct 3, 2023
How Rider can help you adjust to your new role as an adult learner
When you picture the typical college student you likely think of a recent high school graduate, living on campus and taking in-person classes. However, student demographics are quickly changing, and turning non-traditional college students into the new normal. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, as noted by The Education Trust, nearly four million college students are raising children. Many are likely also balancing full-time or part-time jobs. Today’s students need flexible and affordable programs designed to meet the needs of busy adults.
There are many reasons that adults choose to return to the classroom. Obtaining a college degree can help you increase your earning potential, make a career change, or improve your job security. Although prioritizing your education while balancing your other commitments may seem difficult, Rider University offers a variety of resources for adult learners to ensure your success. As you begin your journey, consider our advice for parents going back to school.
1. Define your goals and prepare ahead
The idea of incorporating a college education into your already busy work-life balance can be daunting to parents. Though this challenge may seem intimidating, it is not impossible. At Rider, we believe in personalized attention from the start.
Our team of admission counselors offers individualized counseling to help you define your reasons for returning to school and decide which academic program, and study options, are best suited for you. By outlining your goals before you enroll, we’ll help you identify the path you need to take to achieve them and show you how to plan accordingly.
2. Build an academic plan that fits your life
As a working parent, you understand the importance of time management. Before you decide to go back to school, it is important to evaluate the amount of time you’ll have to devote to your studies.
Our counselors are available to discuss Rider’s flexible and accelerated learning options that can help you graduate in less time and on your own schedule. By reviewing your professional goals, learning preferences and time commitments, it is possible to select an academic program and course plan that sets you up for success.
If you’ve already taken college courses, take advantage of our free transcript evaluations so you can find out how your existing credits apply towards a Rider degree before you apply. Completing this process can help you effectively develop a timeline and time management solutions to stay focused while earning your degree.
3. Focus on effective time management
As a student, you may have the option to choose between fully on-campus, hybrid and online learning modalities. Once you begin classes, make a to-do list of your assignments each week and note roughly how long each one will take you to complete. Many students find that setting aside at least one or two hours per night helps keep them on a steady pace.
No matter how long or short, having dedicated time when you know you can work on your assignments will help make your tasks more manageable and reduce your stress levels. Having everything in one place will help you visualize how much time you need to study and where you can fit that time into your schedule.
4. Don’t be afraid to ask for support
Earning a college degree is a major commitment, however, as a parent returning to learn, having a strong support network is crucial to helping you complete your academic journey. This support can come in many forms, from family and friends to your employer. Rider is also here to help you navigate the unique hurdles that adult learners face.
As a Rider student, you’ll have access to layers of academic and social support. The Academic Success Center offers free tutoring and other forms of academic support both in-person and online. The Office of Career Development and Success additionally provides students with resume evaluations and one-on-one career coaching to help them prepare for their next step.
For women seeking to continue their education, Rider also offers a variety of interpersonal and financial resources including scholarships through The Charlotte W. Newcombe Foundation and The Philanthropic Educational Organization.
5. Get involved and network
When you become part of the Rider community, you’re nothing short of family. Like any family, we have a long, rich history of events and traditions and we want you to be part of it. With over 500 events annually, there is something for everyone. Events like Cranberry Fest, Homecoming, Eggcellent Egg Hunt and more provide fun for children and adults of all ages. Families are welcome to participate in these events and enrich the fabric of our campus community.
In addition to events, our over 150 clubs and organizations play an essential role in the vibrancy of our community at Rider. By immersing yourself in these student-led communities, you can make meaningful connections, develop valuable career and leadership skills, and build friendships with fellow students.
Rider’s Office of Career Development and Success also hosts various workshops, programs and events to help students discover their interests, prepare to enter the job market, explore their intended career paths, and find opportunities.
Don’t be afraid to take the first step
At Rider, we know making the choice to go back to school is not a decision you’ve taken lightly, and we commend you. Let us help you reach your goals. Take the next step and contact us to learn more about our degree programs, flexible scheduling and study options for adult learners.
