Not everyone follows the traditional educational route of attending college straight from secondary school, for all sorts of reasons. This means that, though the majority of new college students each year will be aged 16-18, some will be older.
If you are 19 years old or over and thinking of starting a college course, you might have some unique concerns due to being older than your peers. In this article, we will aim to dispel those concerns and share our top tips to help you settle in, feel comfortable, and get the most from your course.
Equip yourself with information
You can help yourself to feel calm, prepared, and in control about starting college by learning as much as you can about the process in advance. Learn about the enrolment process (including online enrolment), induction for new students, any reading or upskilling you will need to do before the start of term, and what support is available to you on site should you need it.
You’ll be able to find all this information on your college’s website. You might also receive informational emails or be invited to attend informational events such as open evenings and taster sessions. Take advantage of these opportunities if they are available.
Seek out opportunities for mature students
Colleges understand the unique pressures and challenges that mature students (usually defined as someone who is 21+) face, and may have dedicated services, support, and opportunities available. Your college may also have events or a society specifically for mature students, allowing you to connect with others who are starting college later. This can help you to feel supported as well as giving you another opportunity to make friends.
Remember the positives of being an older student
Being an older student comes with challenges, but you also have some advantages. As an older student, you have a few more years of life experience and all the things you have learned along the way, even if you have been out of formal education for some time. You may also have skills you’ve picked up in the workplace, more confidence and self-knowledge, or a more defined career plan.
Remembering all the positive sides to being a mature student can help you to feel more confident about starting college later.
Use social media to get to know people in advance
Most colleges now have Facebook groups or other social media channels for incoming students to get to know one another. Joining one of these channels can give you an opportunity to get to know your fellow students before term starts. You’ll be able to introduce yourself, find others with interests in common, and comment on other students’ posts. By the time you get into the classroom, you’ll already feel as though you are friends.
Why not say in your introduction that you’re an older student and keen to meet others in the same position?
Remember: you’re all peers
Age matters far less than you might think in further and higher education. You are all there to study the same course, and you might be surprised at how quickly you forget that you are older than many of your fellow students. In the college environment, you are peers.
Connecting with other older students can be tremendously valuable. However, don’t forget to take the time to get to know everyone on your course, regardless of age. Making friends with people different from us enriches our lives in so many ways, and that includes people of different ages.
Where to find additional support in the West Midlands
The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) is dedicated to making the West Midlands a better place to live for everyone. No matter which area of the region you are in, there is support available to help you find the perfect college course for you and settle in smoothly.
Life Pilot is a resource aimed at adults looking to progress to further or higher education. You’ll be able to search courses and vacancies, learn more about the various education providers and qualifications on offer, get inspired through success stories, and boost your skills.
If you have specific questions about your particular college or course, contacting the college is usually the best place to start if you cannot find the answers you need on the website. You may be able to phone, email, or fill in an online contact form.
