<p>I am really torn after reading the posts on this forum.
Let me explain.
I am planning to go back to school after a ten year hiatus. My grades in my former LAC were A's and one B+, I was Phi Beta Kappa, and in the honors program.
I would like to go to a top school, but the non trad programs at the ivies (especially harvard) seem to have such a bad rap.
What I am asking is twofold: 1) What are the "well reputed" non-trad programs, if any?
2)Am I better off applying as a transfer student?
I am trying to stay on the east coast, and my plan is to pursue post graduate studies (PhD) after I complete my undergrad.
FYI: The reason I did not finish first time around is because I had a baby.
Thanks in advance!</p>
<p>There seems to be some confusion about non-traditional students. The non-trad programs that you and others are referring to are designed to meet the needs of those who are already working a career (i.e. a 9 to 5 job) and need to take evening or weekend classes (when most traditional classes are not offered) or mothers who have (a) child(ren) to take care of. So, since these programs have been 'specially created' for adults who for one reason or another cannot attend college during regular business hours, they have limited program options, but there is nothing stopping you, or any other adult, from registering full time with all of the other 'traditional' students, doing their same programs, and graduating with their same class. </p>
<p>So it is up to you. I am a non-traditional student, but only because others label me that. As far as I am concerned I am about as traditional of a student as anyone else (well, my parents do not support me financially anymore). </p>
<p>One thing that I got to say, which is extremely annoying, is that for some reason most college-based scholarships and grants are not offered to non-traditional students. Which is ridiculous since something like 67% of all college students in the US are non-traditional.</p>
<p>Really? That poses a problem for me. I will need financial aid, and I do have a child. I wish there was a resource out there with all the different programs.
I know how you feel. I also do not have a problem taking classes with individuals right out of high school. I am sure they can learn a thing or two from me.</p>
<p>You can still receive the same federal financial aid as everyone else, and a few other forms of fin aid. There are some scholarships and grants for the older students, do a google search. Yeah, I am not sure why the majority of scholarships and grants are only available to those who are twenty-four and under, and merit based scholarships for transfer students are even harder to come by (double whammy). It sucks indeed.</p>