It's Tough to Be A Nontraditional Student

Being a non-traditional student is not for the faint of heart. In fact, it is an extremely tough row to hoe. When you need to study most is when little Miss Sunshine will inform you that she needs three-dozen cupcakes for the class party tomorrow, or the dog will decide to have puppies. Your spouse will act pouty, because you haven't given them any attention, and you only talk about your classmates anymore.

You'll feel guilty for locking yourself in the bathroom with your textbooks, because that is the only way you'll be left alone in peace to study. You'll grapple with deciding whether or not to take the extra hours your boss offers you, as you will really need the money, but already don't have enough time to do all of the things you need to do.

You'll wonder how you can ever afford this, when some of your textbooks are over $200, and no, there aren't any used ones available. You'll feel overwhelmed when you realize that the two final exams you need to study for the most are scheduled back-to-back.

You haven’t written an essay since back in high school and don’t even know where to start. You’re thinking about sitting in a classroom with kids not much older than your own and quaking in your boots at the prospect.

You've thought about taking online classes, but how do you know if an employer will accept an online degree or not? You're also wondering if nontraditional students qualify for any financial aid. Should you take out student loans?

These are but a few of the things you will grapple with as a nontraditional student.

But believe it: This is do-able!