Going back to school as a mature student can be challenging, but it's also an incredibly rewarding experience. You bring a wealth of knowledge and life experience to the classroom, and you're fully capable of succeeding in your studies. However, there are some things you need to know in order to thrive as a mature student in Canada. Here are four tips for making the most of your return to academia. Listen to one of our Filipino students who successfully manage their academics while working.
1. Get organized from the start.
One of the challenges you'll face as a mature student is that you have other commitments outside of school. You may have a job, a family, or other responsibilities that take up your time. That's why it's important to get organized from the very beginning. Make a schedule and stick to it. Dedicate specific days and times to studying, and make sure you factor in plenty of time for breaks. There will be times when you have to miss class or push back your studies, but if you're organized from the outset, it'll be much easier to stay on track.
2. Find a study group.
No matter how great your organizational skills are, there will always be some material that's tough to understand on your own. That's where study groups come in handy. Find a group of students who are taking similar courses and meet up with them regularly to discuss the material. Not only will this help you better understand the coursework, but you'll also make some great friends along the way.
3. Don't be afraid to ask for help.
There are plenty of resources available to help you succeed as a mature student in Canada. Take advantage of them! If you're struggling with a particular course, talk to your professor or TA about getting some extra help. There are also tutors available at most schools who can provide one-on-one assistance with specific subjects. And if you need help with anything outside of school, don't hesitate to reach out to your fellow students—they're usually more than happy to lend a helping hand.
4. Take care of yourself.
One of the most important things to remember when returning to school as a mature student is that taking care of yourself is essential for success. Make sure you're eating well and getting enough sleep; both your body and your mind will thank you for it later on down the road. It's also important to find ways to relax and destress; otherwise, all the pressure will start to wear on you eventually. Exercise, meditate, read—do whatever helps you unwind so that you can come back refreshed and ready to tackle whatever comes your way next.
Mature students have plenty of wisdom and life experience under their belts—and this makes them excellent candidates for success in academia! However, there are some things mature students need to keep in mind when returning to school after many years away from the classroom learning environment by following these simple tips: getting organized from the start, finding (and participating in) study groups; asking for help when needed AND taking care not forgetting important self-care habits! See? You got this!
If you're an aspiring student and you don't know where to start in your journey, get a mentor. A mentor can help you figure out what steps to take and what resources are available to you. International students often face additional challenges, so it's especially important to have a mentor who can relate to your experiences and offer advice. In addition to providing guidance, a mentor can also be a source of motivation and encouragement. So if you're feeling lost or uncertain about your future, reach out to someone who can help you find your way.
Here are some of the mentors that will help you make the perfect choice for you, click here to fill out an application and speak to a real human (ex-international student - Mc, and Dex) - and see if we're a fit to work together inside the SLE Premium Coaching Program.
We will be highlighting one of our successful students and how they overcame various challenges while attending college. No matter who you are or what you're facing, it's always inspiring to hear someone's story of success. Without further ado, let's hear from our students!
