If you have never attended a higher education establishment before, then starting out as an undergraduate when you’re a mature student can be a bit daunting. It can seemingly be easier for those who’ve been to university before and are returning. In such cases, you’ll probably know a bit more about what to expect. However, universities have changed a great deal in recent years. Whether you are embarking on a professional qualification, a new degree course or want to study for a postgraduate qualification, what should you expect?
Study in the Digital Age
Assessments and written work are conducted online more often than not these days. This doesn’t mean you should expect in-person seminars and lectures, however. Nevertheless, many universities support this sort of traditional learning with online lectures and – in some cases – one-to-ones with lecturers and other teaching staff that is conducted online. Essay feedback can sometimes be delivered this way, as it is often more efficient. Analogue techniques can still help mature students, though. Instead of submitting written work via email, as so many undergraduates do these days, consider printing it professionally instead. With a reputable printing service, academic work can stand out from the crowd and come across as more thought-through. Of course, this can still mean you work at your computer to edit and hone your essays. However, when the finished article is ready, it is likely to make much more of a favourable impression when it is presented in a physical format.
Get into the Routine Quickly
Although there is plenty of support for life as a mature student, one thing should be underlined. This is to say that the student lifestyle remains very different from one that revolves around workplace or family commitments. You might only have a few hours timetabled each day and this can seem like you have too much time on your hands. Don’t let this time be wasted, though. Spend it on research, either in the library at home and set yourself daily goals. If not, you’ll end up like so many younger students – cramming at the end of their terms for examinations or dashing off essays without the diligence they really deserve.
Study From Home, If You Can
Keeping the costs of studying down is important for lots of mature students. Consequently, studying from home will make sense for many. However, this approach can feel as though you are removed from your place of study somewhat. Therefore, head to the campus frequently, even on days when you don’t have to attend lectures. Your home should be a base for studying but not a place of distraction.
Conclusion
In the end, getting started as a mature student is the biggest hurdle to overcome. Once you have dipped your toe in the educational waters, so to speak, the commitment to learn should already be there. Virtually, no mature student would ever say their studies had been a walk in the park but this is what makes them so satisfying when qualifications have been achieved. The best advice, therefore, is to just get on and do it.
