Handy Studying Tips for Adult Learners
Adult learners who are going back to school after time away can struggle with studying if they haven’t had to do it in many years. Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, a Lasallian Catholic university, provides academic programs for adult learners online and at our campuses in Minneapolis and Rochester, MN. Here, we discuss tips for learning to study again as an adult learner.
Build a Support Network
When you have to start studying, completing homework, and attending classes again, it can be a culture shock, especially if it’s been years since you’ve been in school. One way to ensure you can study and learn effectively is by building a support network that can help you during this time. Lean on family and friends for help with babysitting, making dinners, and other tasks that can distract you from your studies. You can also interact with other adult learners you can study with for additional guidance.
Create a Comfortable Study Space
Since adult learners often have families, children, jobs, and other obligations, it’s essential to create a comfortable study space that is as free from distractions as possible. This allows you to focus on studying without getting sidetracked with family or work tasks. Having your study space equipped with a comfortable chair, proper lighting, headphones, and other useful items can help create a place where you want to spend time and study without getting distracted. If your home is too loud and distracting, consider studying at a library or study room on campus.
Establish Set Study Times
If you find it difficult to stay motivated and focused when studying, it can be helpful to establish set times for studying and stick to them. You can set a timer for a certain amount of time, have a break, and then set the timer again until you’ve studied what you need for your next test or assignment.
Take Advantage of Resources
Adult learners, especially those in online programs, may not know about all the resources available to them through their colleges, local libraries, and other places. If you’re having a difficult time with a certain class or subject, talk to your professor about tutoring or see an academic advisor. If you are struggling with paying for college, reaching out to the financial aid office can help you learn about available programs for adult learners that can help with costs.
Adult Learner Programs at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
At Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, we know adult learners have responsibilities and obligations besides academics, so we offer a range of program types to meet different needs and schedules. We welcome adult learners of all backgrounds, whether you have started a bachelor’s degree previously and need to complete it or are looking for a graduate program. Our School of Graduate and Professional Programs features programs designed specifically for working adults. Our options include:
Online
Our online programs allow adult learners to learn from anywhere, which is especially convenient for people who must be at home with kids or work before or after classes. We have over 50 online programs that make learning accessible from virtually anywhere. Our online students receive the same support services as those on campus, so you don’t have to worry about missing out on certain resources.
Minneapolis – In Person
Our in-person programs for adult learners at our Minneapolis campus include bachelor’s completion programs, graduate certificates, and master’s and doctorate programs. Whatever type of degree or certificate you’re looking to pursue, our Minneapolis campus has resources to help you through the process, including a library, writing center, academic services, and more.
Rochester – In Person
Our in-person programs at our Rochester campus offer hands-on learning, state-of-the-art facilities, and more. Some programs are offered in hybrid models, so adult learners can attend both in-person and online classes, making it easier to fit learning into a busy schedule.
At Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, all our programs feature a person-centered education taught through a faith-based lens, empowering learners to lead ethical lives of service upon completion. Learn more about our admissions process.
Adult Learners Can Thrive at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
If you’re ready to go back to school to finish your degree or complete a new one, trust the high-quality, faith-based education offered at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota. With campuses for adult learners in Rochester and Minneapolis and an undergraduate campus in Winona, we are here to guide students throughout their education and help them lead ethical lives of service and leadership. For more information about our programs for adult learners, request more information today to speak with a counselor.
