Research what kind of learning institution is best for you. The college experience is no longer limited to traditional classrooms with instructors and set meeting times. Depending on your major, there are countless options for your learning experience. While you may need to complete certain degrees through a traditional in-person program, many majors are now available completely online. Consider and pursue what is your best environment for learning. Even experiment with both until you decide.
Arm yourself with everything you can learn about computers and technology. If you haven't taken any classes since you left high school, a lot has changed in the delivery of course material. You may feel lost compared to younger students when it comes to computer technology. Rather than feel insecure about any deficiencies you may have, brush up on your skills before you attend your first class. Solicit the help of your daughter, nephew or younger next-door neighbor to get you more computer savvy beforehand.
Use your past experiences to narrow down a field of study. One good thing about being an older student is plenty of personal and professionally history to draw upon for choosing a major. When a student starts college right out of high school, it's almost impossible for him to know the many career options available. By age 50, you have met more people, had more jobs and just generally participated in more life experiences that show you what you like and don't like to do. For example, an administrative professional in a typical office setting may find a sales representative's job exciting and go back to school to study marketing.
Anticipate how the demands of life may interfere with your new college commitments. Whether or not you have a family of your own, by your 50s general life commitments play into your availability to study. An older student may need to work while going to school, take care of aging parents or keep up the maintenance on a home. All of these are time consuming and cut into your availability for class and assignments. Work out a plan for coping with these commitments and ask for help from others, especially as you get started.
Relax and enjoy the experience. The college atmosphere can be really fun, so embrace it. Few places promote open thinking and the feelings of community like a university setting. Even online programs attempt to bond students by having them utilize chat rooms and social networking sites. Remember that connecting with others and gathering wisdom from your instructors, as well as professional networking, are important parts of your college experience.