Good Evening,
I just have a question regarding college admissions. I don’t know where to start so I’ll just explain my situation. I graduated high school in 2002 and attended a community college for about a year. I stopped attending after the first year and went to work. I then enlisted in the military at age 25, and spent 5 years in the service.
I am now out and am trying to attend college. I want to attend a 4 year University. Is there a special program colleges have, or are there special circumstances for me sin e I am not a traditional student? Do I have to go back/speak with an advisor from my old school? Is it possible to just apply for another college? And, also, what do the colleges think about me since I have been out so long and have some military background? Thanks.
Google “non traditional degree”, “continuing education” or military friendly schools. Some colleges have extensions called “School of Proffessional Studies” (Like Georgetown & NEU). There is a plethora of of programs of those with a military background.
You need to call or email the veteran’s office at the college you hope to attend. They will help you return to school and how to get your degree. Each college should have an office.
“Show you” how to get your degree.^^^^^^
Sorry for the late reply but I don’t check this forum as much as some of the others.
Colleges will think highly of your service and be lucky to have you. Because of the time since you graduated HS you’ll have to take a standardized test (SAT/ACT) to gauge your current academic aptitude. That shouldn’t be a huge deal- my reading/vocab sections improved in the 5 years after high school while I was in the military- yours might have as well.
As far as applying, it will depends on the school. It seemed that most will want you to apply as a “transfer student” because you undoubtedly have some credits from the military. That’s how it was for me, even though none of my Navy credits transferred. It’s a shame, really, because I was never an actual college student, and applying as a transfer meant I missed out on some of the orientation-type stuff that would have helped me adjust to college life. This is something I recommend you inquire about when talking to prospective schools.
Feel free to shoot me a message if you have any other questions!
Thanks a lot for the response. I will try researching and contacting the admissions offices of prospective schools for more information.
I am really excited to go back to school, especially to a University, and hopefully it will be a great experience!
Thanks! I’ll take all the information and help I can get!