Tips for Adults Attending College for the First Time or Coming Back

Earning a college degree, whether it’s a technical certificate, associate, bachelor’s, or higher, can be a rewarding pursuit, with numerous benefits.

If it’s work, family, finances, the coursework and schedule itself, or some other form of other commitment, the process of beginning college and sticking with it can be daunting.

If you are considering attending college after a previous experience or are attending for the first time, here are a few tips to increase your likelihood of success while in school and post-graduation.

Research

It’s important to formulate a game plan for attending college. What are the financial costs? What types of scholarships and other forms of aid are available? What programs, degrees, and certifications are available? If I have previous work or life experience in my academic area of study, can I get college credit to save me time and money?

Do Credits Transfer?

This is an important question to ask as you look to transfer into your chosen college and as you look to continue your higher education journey after graduation.

If you’ve taken classes elsewhere, don’t let your credits go to waste. Save time and money by transferring your credits from previous institutions to Nashville State.

As you look to continue your education post-Nashville State graduation to seek a bachelor’s (and potentially higher), you will want to see your options for being able to transfer earned credits.

Find Your Interest

If you’re unsure about what career path is right for you, you can take a YouScience Career Assessment and visit Candid Career to listen to real people talking about their work. Career Services is available to assist with all types of preparation.

Don’t Take on Too Much

We all have busy lives with countless demands. Adding classes, coursework, and time involved isn’t always a walk in the park. Starting as a part-time student can help you get used to the pace, build confidence, and allow you to work out a doable schedule.

Take Advantage of Student Support Resources

Before or after enrolling, be sure to learn about academic and non-academic resources available to you.

What type of academic support do I get outside the classroom?

To be successful in the classroom, most students need non-academic support outside the classroom. Be sure to take advantage of the free support (food, textbook, transit assistance, etc.) available to you.

Nashville State does not guarantee a job, salary increase, eligibility for a position, or promotion as they often depend on numerous internal and external factors, not within the College’s control.