Released August 13, 2009
MADISON, Wisc. - Faced with an uncertain economy or a major lifestyle change such as divorce, job loss or "empty-nest syndrome," more and more adults are thinking about returning to college.
"Overall, studies show that college graduates are happier and more satisfied with their jobs than workers without college degrees," says Lisa Devine-Barribeau, an educator with the University of Wisconsin-Extension in Oconto County. "But going back to school when you're an adult can be like entering a whole different world."
Devine-Barribeau's own background as an adult student and a parent with three children made her aware of a lack of resources for people coping with the responsibilities of school and caring for children or family members.
To meet this need, Devine-Barribeau and her UW-Extension colleagues worked on developing an educational resource that spoke to some of the major concerns identified by adult students.
"We wanted to address the issues specific to their situation," says Devine-Barribeau. "Things like how to choose good childcare, make sound financial decisions and handle changing adult relationships."
For example, Devine-Barribeau found that many adult students felt guilty about spending less time with their children. "People said they needed to do school work but wanted to hang out with their kids," says Devine-Barribeau. "Having a partner who is really supportive can help with this."
For single parents, Devine-Barribeau recommends enlisting the aid of family and friends. "Adult students shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help," she says.
"Don't forget that you aren't the only one who benefits from getting a degree," adds Devine-Barribeau. "Celebrate the fact that you are improving your situation--and your family's--through education."
"Family Matters for Adult Students"—a series of eight publications on topics identified by adult students is now available from the UW-Extension Learningstore at http://learningstore.uwex.edu/Education-C318.aspx
For more information on becoming a student in the University of Wisconsin System, go to http://UWin.wisconsin.edu. To learn more about issues that concern Wisconsin families, visit the Family Living Programs website at http://www.uwex.edu/ces/flp
--30—
http://www.uwex.edu/news/2009/08/adults-returning-to-college-face-unique-challenges
Source: Lisa Devine-Barribeau, (920)834-6846, lisa.devine-barribeau@ces.uwex.edu
