Going back to school in your 30s, 40s or beyond can be a somewhat daunting experience, but McHenry County College in Crystal Lake is hoping to make things a bit easier for the returning adult student.
MCC offers two free seminars, one from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, March 22, and a second from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 11, addressing the “special needs” of the older student.
“The returning adult has different questions than the younger students at age 17 or 18,” according to Helen Jost, adult recruitment specialist. “They have unique needs as far as times they are available to go to school and they want flexibility in the way classes are delivered.”
Jost said adult students — many of whom have jobs and families — worry about getting back into the swing of attending classes, studying and taking tests. They also worry about feeling conspicuous in a classroom full of younger students.
While not unfounded, those worries are usually put to rest the first day of class, Jost said. In fact, MCC’s largest student group is 25-plus, and the studying thing, well, that’s like riding a bike, she said, adding that MCC also offers free tutoring and academic advising.
“I’m especially showing students a fast track way to get an associate’s degree,” she said.
She also said she provides information on financial aid, including many different scholarships available.
“Oh, yes, we want our older students to have access to these opportunities, as well,” she said.
Jost said she has found that older students are usually A-students, since they have conquered time management skills and are more focused. She said if they do not have immediate test-taking skills, they can pick that up.
“Older students are very goal-oriented,” she said. “It’s gratifying to work with these individuals.”
Refreshments will be served at the “getting started” seminars that give returning adults a chance to meet other students like themselves, learn about degree and certificate requirements, start the financial aid process and tour the MCC campus. Call (815) 455-8914 to reserve a seat.