Why Nontraditional College Students Should Engage With Campus Life
For nontraditional college students — those juggling jobs, family life with partners and children, and other commitments with a degree program — getting involved with campus life can seem less than intuitive. After all, many nontrads are older, wiser, and have more settled lives than their fresh-faced 18-to-21-year-old counterparts. Yet making connections with peers and building an on-campus social life in college offers numerous benefits that can significantly enhance your college experience, academic success, and personal well-being.
Building a Support Network
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Emotional support. College can be stressful, especially when you’re balancing multiple responsibilities. Yet no one understands your academic workload better than your fellow students, and connecting with them provides a moral support system of people who can offer advice, encouragement, or just a listening ear.
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Academic support. Participating in study groups or academic clubs can help you stay on top of your coursework. Fellow students can offer different perspectives, share study tips, and help you grasp challenging concepts.
Enhancing Academic Success
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Increased motivation. Being a proper part of a campus community can boost your motivation to succeed academically. When you're connected with people who share similar goals, you're more likely to stay committed to yours.
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Wise use of resources. Campuses typically provide resources such as tutoring, workshops, and academic advising, all of which can support your academic journey. Besides helping you with coursework, these resources also connect you with peers and staff, providing opportunities for collaboration and more meaningful learning.
Professional Development Opportunities
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Networking. Participating in student organizations, clubs, and events offers opportunities to network with peers, faculty, and industry professionals in your areas of interest. These connections can lead to internships, job opportunities, and valuable references.
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Skill and resume development. Getting involved in campus life can help you develop soft skills such as communication, leadership, and teamwork, which are highly valued by employers. For nontraditional students, these experiences can bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application.
Personal Growth and Well-Being
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Balancing life. Engaging in campus activities can promote a healthy balance among your academics, work, and personal life. It offers a break from your daily responsibilities and an opportunity to explore new interests and hobbies.
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Feeling a sense of belonging. Being involved with your peers helps you feel more connected to the college community as a whole, reducing feelings of isolation and improving your overall college experience.
Get More Out of Higher Education With On Point for College
On Point for College helps traditional and nontraditional students in the Central New York region overcome the barriers to higher education and careers. We support our students from application through graduation and beyond, empowering them to fulfill their dreams and achieve their potential, which ultimately benefits both the individuals and our community.
Our Education Services team provides a range of services designed to help On Point students and graduates find the right college or university for them. Join us to get comprehensive assistance with your college experience, including guidance on how to transfer colleges. Contact us today to learn how!
Ready to become a part of On Point for College? Fill out our new student interest form here.