I’m a returning full-time student going into what will be the equivalent of my sophomore year… I left in 2003, had a family, a career, etc. I’m much older than your typical student. I’m kinda nervous. How do people view older students? Do you notice at all? I’m super excited about taking classes in the fall again after so long, but I am dreading being the oldest person in the room. Sure, this is a stupid thing to worry about, but I pretty much missed out on the college experience when I was young, and I’d like to make the experience I do get to have a really good one.
I am in the same boat! Returning after being gone since 2002 and having the same thoughts!
In my experience, older students usually do very well. Older students tend to do a better job of keeping ahead with the homework, attending all classes, and avoiding unproductive behavior.
You might have a bit of stuff to catch up on. Math strikes me as a particularly obvious area where you might want to make sure that you are caught up and up to date on your prerequisites. You might want to inquire about summer tutoring or classes.
Partying and dating is likely to be very different compared to younger student (if it exists for you at all).
Otherwise I wish you luck and expect that you will find the experience quite rewarding.
For me personally, as a current UMD student, I see older students the same, if not a bit cooler/more respectable than the average student (in a “wow this is cool that they’re continuing their education!” kind of way). Some people (usually immature people) will find you being older “weird,” but most won’t bat an eye to it. I have a few older people in my computer science courses and it feels completely normal.
Thank you - I’m feeling much better after registering for my classes, getting my ID card, etc. Can’t wait!