Students returning to school after several years are often concerned about keeping up with academics. If you are an adult that has recently gone back to college to finish your degree or is contemplating going back to school, you are not alone! The Degree Completion Program at Arizona Christian University incorporates a course in the beginning of each of the degree programs to help adults sharpen their skills. No matter where you are in the process, however, these five tips will set you up for success and prepare you for becoming a college student as an adult learner:
- Develop a Support System. Pull together support from family and friends and ask them to pray you through each class and any times of struggle.
- Be patient with yourself. The more time you’ve spent away from school the more difficult it may be to feel comfortable.
- Adjust your schedule. Carve out an hour or two every day for reading and writing. Our favorite saying in the DCP office is “short-term sacrifice: long-term gain.”
- Make good use of on-line tools. Look for free resources on the internet that will help with study skills, grammar, and writing.
- Don’t be shy. The more you interact with others, the more comfortable you’ll feel and the more success you will have. This is your time. Own it.
If I were to add a sixth tip it would be to reward yourself – and to reward yourself often. You are embarking on a good and noble adventure. Completing your degree as an adult is an incredible undertaking, be proud of what you’re doing, who you are, and who you are becoming.
Fill out the form below to contact Lisa Beaman if you would like more information on the Degree Completion Program and how you can get involved in one of our community focused cohorts. You can also visit our web pages for more information on the program and degree offerings.
Lisa Beaman at ACU 