Adult Learning: A Positive Experience

A little over a year and a half ago I enrolled in University of Phoenix. I signed the papers to become a student with a major in Criminal Justice. I have to tell you that I was terrified that first night. What would be expected of me, a late bloomer in the world of education? What type of students would I encounter and how would I manage this after all these years? These were important questions for me since I was going to college for the first time at the age of 33.

I scarcely recall that first night of class, though I can say with clarity that there was a lot of sweating on my part. My instructor was nice enough and the criteria for the class seemed overwhelming, but workable. (Now as I look back those classes were so simple.)

UOP has one major requirement, you must work in teams. You read that correctly. For those of us who have never been team players (or just singular workers), this seemed like a leap. How could I work with people that I'd never met? Let alone trust my assignments to? I have to say that I had to take a leap of faith and trust these strangers. This trust has paid off; I have not only kept my GPA up, I have made new and lasting friendships as well. Getting to know these wonderful students and staff has been well worth my time and effort. I do not regret one moment of my career as a student.

Today, I am one class away from entering my major and I am excited to say that the experience with University of Phoenix has been a pleasurable one. I have worked with several different partners (though some I have stuck with all the way until last week) and I am currently with a whole new group of students and I am looking forward to the experience. This new group of students reminds me of how excited I was those first few classes and my excitement has not diminished in the many months I have attended UOP.

My instructors have proven apt and perfectly capable of teaching adult students (another great perk of UOP - we're all interested in moving forward with our lives and occupations without the stigma of parents pushing us along). I have had very few negative experiences with the staff of the university and considering the many months of enrollment that is awesome. The advisors have all led me without ulterior motives and have encouraged and cheered me on with each new class, even if the class was one that I was desperately not interested in.

I can only say that being an adult student has proven to me that I am not the quitter I once was in that long ago past life. I can succeed and I am NOT too old to learn new things. I have discovered new passions and interests (particularly Greek Philosophy and English). Being an adult student has been a positive experience for me and I would recommend anyone who wants to go to college to improve his or her career or knowledge to seriously consider online, flex-net, or on-ground classes for adults, and in particular with University of Phoenix. You will not be disappointed; besides, the classes are short and addictive enough to keep most interested. We're talking about personal success here - well worth your time if you're interested.

I hope that those of you who are ready for a change will consider my words and if you do, I wish you nothing but the success education can offer you.