Page 11 - TR RVO Extra 2020

ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE THREE RIVERS AND RIVER VALLEY & OZARK EDITIONS OF THE ARKANSAS DEMOCRAT-GAZETTE • EXTRA
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2020 11SS
EDUCATION
Back to class
What to know as an adult returning to school
College campuses are diverse. Newly minted high school graduates embarking on the next stage of their studies might dominate college campuses, but many established professionals who have long since graduated from high school are also among the student bodies at universities around the globe.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, one in five Americans enrolled in undergraduate higher education is at least 30 years old.
“Going to college is transformative and life-changing for anyone,” said Chris Lorch, vice president of Academic Affairs at Ozarka College in Melbourne.
“For adults, it can be challenging, yet especially rewarding.”
The changing face of higher education should be a comfort to adults who may have been apprehensive about heading back to school. Adults considering a return to school should not allow their age to deter them from enrolling.
“Whether you are attending for the first time, finishing what you were unable to at a previous time in your life or looking for a career change, attending college as an adult learner is a new start toward new opportunities,” Lorch added. “College offers a pathway to higher earnings, a better life for your family, a fulfilling career
While mature adults face unique challenges when pursuing a college education, completing one’s education offers benefits at any age.
and a change of perspective on college- going for your family for generations.”
Finding the right fit in regard to a college is different for adults than it is for students right out of high school. Responsibilities to family and employers complicate the decision about where to go to school. The following tips can help adults as they decide where to continue their education.
• Choose a school that meets your needs.
Look for schools that can accommodate
priorities other than academics, such as family and work. Many schools now offer flexible schedules and online classes.
Check out schools with strong reputations for working with adult learners. Convenience, affordability, student services and quality are all important to adult students, said Richard Dawe, president of Ozarka College, who added
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