For many of us, learning is consigned to our university years; that mentally draining yet equally thrilling period of time in our lives before we entered the real world of work. But for some, the desire to learn new things never really goes away, and with financial stability comes the chance to re-enrol on a new course without having to worry about income – sometimes, to fuel a change in career, and others, for sheer enjoyment.
If there’s a subject you just can’t get enough of, and would love to dedicate some time to delving into a little deeper, then studying as a mature student could be for you. It might feel like an intimidating prospect to return to university later in life, but it could be a great choice in the long-run – and best of all, you won’t have to give up the luxurious lifestyle you’ve come to love. In fact, learning as a mature student is a luxury in itself – look at it like this, and it should fit right in.
Whether you are 10 or 20 years a senior to the majority of the freshers who have started this year, studying as a mature student is not as much of a rarity as you might think. Better yet, there are a multitude of benefits associated with furthering your education later on in life that may convince you to take up the challenge – not just in the sense that you’ll enjoy a boost in knowledge and potentially, your career, but also in the sense that you’ll be at a distinct advantage when compared with those choosing to learn younger in life.
So, read on, then get ready to immerse yourself in the luxury of learning once again – this time, without the stresses and concerns that come with doing so aged 18. Here are four great reasons why studying as a mature student will put you at a good advantage to your peers – so get ready to don that cap and gown.
A mature view of your education
While younger students may be more focused on socialising as one of their top priorities in life, older students often find themselves at a distinct advantage, considering this time-consuming aspect to university life may no longer be a relevant priority. Being able to approach your education with a mature viewpoint will mean that you are easily able to dedicate more time and effort to it than most of us ever did the first time round. The result? A more fulfilling and enjoyable learning experience, rounded off with some pretty impressive results.
Financial stability
Making ends meet on an income from a side job or a part-time job is often not the most straightforward task in life – but as a mature student who is financially comfortable, it’s no longer a worry you’ll have to contend with. Heading back to university without any money worries at all will leave you free to enjoy the experience without the stress – and to enjoy the live a life of luxury that is simply not afforded to younger students.
Self-awareness
The aspect of self-awareness is far more beneficial than it may seem. Knowing yourself and feeling comfortable in your own skin – as we commonly tend to at a more mature age – means you can avoid the years spent seeking the approval of your peers and educators that many young students go through.
This will allow you to assess your university options with solid confidence rather than settle on an institution only because your friends will be attending – as you perhaps once might have. When determining the best institution for you, you should search for universities in the UK and evaluate all that your shortlist institutions have to offer before selecting your course – and with time, experience and maturity on your side, you’ll be much better equipped to make a good choice.
Experience and understanding
Mature students who have gained significant life experience before heading back to university are able to enjoy a broader sense of understanding. There’s no doubt that you will be able to apply your general life experience toward your navigation through university – a luxury that is just not possible for those entering straight from school.
Granted, students who are fresh out of high school may have the upper-hand in terms of social trends and events, but this aspect of university life is not what really matters when it comes to achieving success.
Should you ever find yourself feeling somewhat overwhelmed initially, or slightly out of place, you should keep in mind your reasoning behind your pursuit. Knowing yourself and why you are seeking to further your education is often more of a realistic concern for mature students, and this aspect is often what keeps them from falling off track.
