You dutifully undertake extra responsibilities at home. You’re a steadfast support, homework checker and study buddy. You’re the piece that really completes the whole puzzle. And you are appreciated.

Generally, the families and support systems of students aren’t recognized until graduation day. Sometimes in the grind of starting and completing a college education, the focus is so dialed in on the student, that the importance and vital support from the family can be overlooked or even taken for granted. So, on behalf of your student, and in advance, you’re the best.

You’re the best because you’re going to deal with a lot, and will still hold it all together.

1. Be understanding

Supporting your spouse’s decision to go back to school might seem like a one-time decision, but you will have to wake up each morning and choose to be understanding. You might even have to make that decision multiple times a day. Going back to school is stressful and can be intimidating. Be reassuring of your partner’s capabilities and understanding of the feelings, emotions, and responsibilities they’ve undertaken. You are the lighthouse in the storm.

2. Allow them to focus

Stepping up to the plate and shouldering more responsibility at home so your spouse can buckle down on their studying and school work will make all the difference in your spouse’s academic success. Ultimately, academic success will result in professional success that will benefit your family for years to come.

3. Celebrate the accomplishments

The best part of being a fan is watching your team win. The best part of being a spouse when your partner is in school is seeing them get an A, pass the class, graduate, and just be excellent overall. Break out those pom poms, boys and girls! Celebrate those achievements! Remind your spouse you are proud of their accomplishments - no matter how small they might be.

4. Stay connected

School is in session and everyone is busy. Dedicate yourself to making time to regularly connect with your spouse. It’s a running theme for any married couple - make time for each other, date your spouse, communicate. But it’s worth repeating. Stay anchored in your relationship. Don’t allow the research papers, presentations, and finals to take over your lives completely.

5. Remember it’s only for a season

College won’t last forever. Eventually, your spouse will complete the graduation requirements and earn their degree. The routine will shift again, and you’ll live more like you did before they enrolled. You’ll have made it through the hardship together. Seasons are temporary, and even though you might not know exactly when graduation day will be, it will come. When choosing to be supportive is harder, remember it’s just a short season of life.

You are special. You are valued. And when graduation day comes at Amberton, it’s as much about you as it is about your student spouse. So put on your game face, and rock this school experience together.

Making the decision to go back to school is nothing to be taken lightly. You’re investing a lot of time, money and sweat into completing your degree. Ask yourself these five questions to figure out if it’s the right move for you.

1. Why do you want to go back or start now for the first time?

Everyone’s reasons for going to school as an adult are different and they’re all valid. First, identify the root of why you’re considering going back to school. It could be that you want to go back as an example for your children, or to fulfill a promise to your parents, or to better your career, or for your own personal achievement. Figuring that out can help you determine if you’re making the decision for the right reasons.



2. What is your motivation level?

Finishing your degree requirements is a marathon, not a sprint. This is especially true for the adult learner. At Amberton, courses are 10 weeks long. This means you can take more classes throughout the calendar year, and the curriculum is slightly condensed compared to the standard college semester. Your motivation level is typically highest when you’re at the start of something strenuous. Are you mentally prepared to work through the grind until Graduation Day?



3. How is your support system?

Adult students have more to deal with than just going to lectures and completing their course assignments. Many of you have jobs and families that demand your time and attention. They cannot be slid to the back burner. Before you make the decision to enroll in college, evaluate who your closest supports will be. How will they help you? Which additional responsibilities and tasks will they adopt? Can you share the load with others during this season of your life?



4. Will having a degree bolster your career?

This is a big question to answer. Will your promotional opportunities be dependent on whether or not you have a degree? If you can definitively say you have reached a roadblock in your career (or will eventually) without a bachelor’s or master’s degree, then you should certainly pursue continuing your education. Make moves to improve yourself and set yourself up for the best successes possible.



5. Can you afford to go back?

With that college education comes college tuition. It is an investment, but it can be a sacrifice to make the payments. At Amberton, our goal is to provide quality education at an affordable price. Many of our students graduate with little to no student debt. Additionally, we offer plenty of options on how you can pay for your education. Employers also recognize the value of having an educated workforce. Check with your human resources department about tuition reimbursement benefits before enrolling.

There will always be reasons not to go back to school. It’s easy to put off. But if working towards your degree is the right move for you, reach out to our advisors. They are ready and willing to help you get started on this exciting path! We are here to support you as you work to reach your goals.

Going back to college as a working adult can feel intimidating. Questions about your capabilities and competence might bounce around in your head. How will you fit in? How will you manage the workload and perform at your best? And most importantly, how will you handle everything else in your life?

Returning to school as a working adult comes with added pressure. You’re balancing real responsibilities—paying the bills, working a 9-5 job, possibly raising kids, and maintaining relationships. However, it’s important to remember that working through college is just a season in your life. You can achieve your goals and fulfill your dreams with determination and planning.

You’re not alone

As a working adult, you’re not the only one returning to school. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), 33% of the 18 million undergraduate students in the U.S. are over 25, and 22% are over 30. 

Additionally, research by UCLA’s Professor of Education Mike Rose shows that nearly 45% of U.S. postsecondary students did not enroll directly after high school. While everyone’s path is unique, being a non-traditional student is far more common than you might think.

Build a Support System

In any long journey, having support makes the process easier. As you begin your coursework, identify the people who will walk alongside you. This could include your spouse, parents, professors, or advisers. 

Additionally, connect with your classmates within your degree program. Lean on one another and share your challenges. Remember, you don’t have to do this alone.

Develop Camaraderie

If you only show up to class, turn in assignments, and check the box, you’ll miss out on a lot. Your peers are a valuable resource, both personally and professionally.

Take the time to engage with your classmates, build connections, and learn from their experiences. Just like you, they bring unique insights and perspectives that can help you grow.

Learn to Study with Distractions

Distractions are a part of life, especially for a working adult. Whether it’s text alerts, Facebook notifications, or looming work deadlines, staying focused can be challenging.

Lean on your support system to help manage responsibilities. Dedicate specific times to schoolwork, even if it means early mornings or late nights. Stick to a routine that allows you to focus on your studies without interruptions.

Focus on What You Can Control

Balancing work, school, and life is a marathon, not a sprint. Focus on what you can control and avoid stressing over things you can’t. Manage your time wisely, complete your assignments, and do your best.

Don’t let tomorrow’s worries rob you of today’s progress. Your coursework may feel overwhelming, but the results are worth it.

Take Time to Relax

Your well-being is crucial as a working adult. Take mental health breaks and allow yourself time to decompress. While your friends and family will understand your busy schedule, don’t neglect your relationships. Remember, going back to school is a life-changing decision. By focusing on one step at a time, you can conquer the challenges and achieve your dreams.

Amberton University is designed for the working adult. Our flexible courses create a supportive environment for non-traditional students to thrive. For a glimpse into how Amberton worked for one alumnus, click here to watch the video.

 

Finals are tough. No one enjoys taking them. But they’re a necessary evil for every college student. Studying for the big test is important -- of course, you know that. As finals approach it’s important to maintain consistent study sessions. When you’re getting those study juices flowing, remember these tips to maximize your time and efforts.

1. Make a Schedule

You’re a working adult student. You’ve had to carve out time to go to class, write papers, create presentations, study for tests; making time specifically to study for a final is not anything new to you. Don’t overlook or take for granted the time needed to study for the biggest exam of the semester. What’s the best way to eat a whole elephant? One bite at a time. Think of your study sessions the same way. You’ll retain more information if you divide up the material into manageable chunks, and spread out the units over the number of days you have for studying.

2. Find a Quiet Place to Concentrate

No matter what your study and homework sessions looked like throughout the semester, you have to devote your time to studying without distractions before finals. Generally, it’s the biggest portion of your grade for the class. Do you really want to risk anything less than your best because your little one chucked macaroni at you, or the line at Starbucks wrapped around your study table?

3. Ask Questions

Your professors are here to help you learn, grow, and retain the information so you can apply it in your career. If you’re unsure about a topic, ask for clarification. Make sure you set yourself up to understand. Pro tip: if your professor provides you with study guides or a practice final, complete it! Mark it up. Write all over it. And take the practice test a couple of times.

4. Cater to Your Learning Style and Preferences

By the time finals roll around you should be familiar with what works for you during your study sessions. Stick to that game plan. It’s not the time to deviate and try something new. Do what you do, and then knock it out of the park!

5. Take a Break and Rest

This is a biggie. Don’t get so bogged down studying before finals week that you kill your energy and have nothing left in the tank. Have faith that you’ve prepared yourself throughout the course for this last moment. Study and do your thing, but then take time for yourself and relax. Finish the race strong! Finals week sounds daunting and demanding than it really is. It is rigorous, but you’re a working adult student. You’re a rockstar! When you’re walking out of your exam know that you’ve accomplished a lot in taking and completing the course. Savor the feeling and know you’re thriving in college.