University of Illinois at Springfield Top Questions

I am a non-traditional student returning after raising my family. In my 20s I did not complete my degree in teaching. I am now returning to school in my 50s, very serious about my getting my degree, maintaining a 4.0 GPA and going on for my Master's in Social Work and family counseling. If I could go back in time knowing what I know now, I would have completed my degree in my 20s and had a 30-year career with financial security in my retirement years. Of course, we have autonomy and no one can tell another person how to live life. The wisdom gained from mistakes and curves in the road of my life have built my character and made me stronger.

I would select a major/minor that best suits my passion in life and would know that it's fine to explore different options if I hadn't previously selected my major. I would be sure to develop a four to five year plan that maps out my academic goals and would leave time for extracurricular activities such as athletic sports, music, social clubs, etc. I would devise a realistic plan each semester or two with my academic advisor to make certain that I am meeting my goals. I'd be specific when scheduling study time as it aids in the development of time management, which is crucial to college life and beyond. I would definitely aim high, keeping in mind that maintaining a high GPA will open a plethora of doors for future career successes as well as financial assistance. I would enjoy class breaks, but also utilize them to get ahead in enrolled courses. I'd steer away from procrastination, toxic friends and family, extended social interaction, and substance abuse. I would choose the school that best suits my integrity and keep in close contact with my advisors and professors.

Allow the student to chose where they would be most comfortable. Take a tour of the surrounding area, not just the campus.

I would say that you should decide first what kind of community you would like to be in. I personally do not like big adn crouded areas so I chose a small school in a smaller area of town. Then I would look at these school based off of their credibility. You want to look at a school that has a good percentage of placement of the students after they graduate in either jobs or graduate schools. I would also strongly recomend touring the school because I think that is when you really know if you like the school. Once you are at a school I would recomend being slightly involved in the school in going to some events and to make friends with the people you are living with. My suite mate from my freshman year is now my best friend at school.

Be curious, adaptable and open-minded. Attempt to have a clear picture of your goals, both personally and professionally. The stronger connection you can make between school and your career, the less stressful and more successful you will be.

Both parents and students need to take time to consider all of their options including what type of job they're pursuing, before they start college. Some high schools offer vocational training, which can help when deciding on what to major in at school. Also, students, when picking the right college, choose one that fits you and consider the scholarships, grants and FAFSA EARLY! It may feel like a lot of work, but it helps make things a lot cheaper! Find out what is expected of you by most professors and consider what type of help (Tutors/study groups) is available at school. Both parents and students, consider the local schools in your area, especially the junior and community colleges and what's required of transfer students at the current school you may be interested in. Sometimes it's best to start with a 2- year college since it can provide an associates degree, something you can fall back on, just in case the University doesn't work out. Community college is a good investment because you can live at home, (since some colleges have everything in walking distance), you can keep your car and have home cooked meals daily!!!

Take your time and do your research. One size does not fit all and will make all the difference in the academic experience. Visit the campus several times. Make sure it feels like it fits you. An uncomfortable marginalizing campus environment will absolutly deminish your ability to live, learn, and grow in a healthy and challenging manner.

The college should be selected soley on basis of what the student is looking for in a school. The primary focus should be on if the school offers the degree program of interest or if undecided offers a variety of degree programs. Also, a school that offers special programs or housing situations based on honors designation or type of degree provides a network of people who will be helpful during the college process. This type housing is huge benefit to a school and student. Other important consideration should be on the cost of the college and availibility of financial aid. Never chose a school because of who else is attending or because it offers a very active social calendar. You don't need to pay to go to college if you are only using it to bump up your social calendar. It is a waste of effort on the professor's part and to the other students to have to attend with a student who is not serious about their degree goals.

Don't be afraid to talk to current students at the schools you are interested in, in fact, do it. The admissions offices which high school students coorespond with are designed to pull you in. If you want facts about the important things (what your life will be like outside of the 16 hours of classes you have every week) then you have to talk to the people who know, the people who are going through that now. It's scary to talk to "cool college kids," or at least it was for me, but it's one of those things you just have to do. College students understand what you are going through, how do you think they got to where they are now? They know what is important to incoming freshman because just a few years ago, they were the new kids, fresh out of high school. In order to know what goes on when classes aren't in session, you have to talk openly about your concerns with the people who know best. The admissions offices know the stats, but when they are gone for the day, it's the students who remain and know the reality.

Learn to embrace change. You may not end up at your dream college- it's okay. Choose to learn anyway. Or, maybe you do get into the perfect school, but...your roommate sucks or you decide to change your major. Don't freak out. Embrace change - you'll be surprised how much the EXPERIENCE of college will teach you. It's worth the student loans, I promise. :)