Confronting Ageism When Going Back to College

Are you thinking of going back to college as an older adult? Perhaps you're hoping to pursue a new career, gain new skills, or complete a degree you began years ago. Whatever the reason you're considering college, you may be wondering if you're too old for college, or how your age might affect your overall experience.

Ageism can be an issue on college campuses in that many schools don't have support systems in place for older adults. Adult learners may also feel disrespected or belittled due to the treatment of younger classmates and professors.

Older students can combat these challenges by:

• seeking out support systems
• attending colleges that are tailored to nontraditional students
• developing good academic relationships with their peers and teachers

What Is Ageism?

Ageism is also known as age discrimination. It is considered the most widely accepted form of discrimination in the world. Unlike other forms of discrimination, ageism is one form that almost everyone will experience at some point in their life.

Older people are often dismissed or disrespected based on their age, despite the great amount of life experience they have obtained. Ageism can lead to various difficulties for older people, such as mental health challenges and trouble finding jobs.

For those in this demographic hoping to attend school to pursue a career change or increase their knowledge, ageism can add an extra layer of challenges.

Is Ageism a Problem When Going Back to College?

Adult students often have considerations such as family commitments, mortgages, and job responsibilities when thinking about enrolling in a new degree program. Unfortunately, these students often have to deal with ageism as well.

Ageism is not as prevalent among college students as it is among employers, but it can still come into play. For example, younger students may look down on their older peers, making for a more negative college experience.

What's more, many college classes are designed with traditional students in mind. They may require full-time, in-person attendance that doesn't fit into the busy lives of older adults.

This can make it more challenging for older adults to get their college degree. Though more schools are making the effort to provide flexible coursework options, many schools remain unaware of the needs of older students or unwilling to address them.

How to Deal With Ageism in Higher Education

So, what can you do to deal with ageism as you go back to school for your bachelor's or master's degree?

The first thing you'll want to do is be aware of your strengths. You have life experience and unique perspectives to contribute to class discussions; having a good level of self-confidence will help you if you run into problems with ageism.

Surround yourself with people who will support and encourage you throughout your academic journey. Friends, family members, coworkers, and fellow students who are willing to cheer you on will make your time in college a more positive experience.

Finally, studies have shown that education regarding the aging process and spending time with older adults helps those who are younger overcome their ageist perspectives. If possible, promote relationships with your younger classmates, such as having a study group, so you can get to know each other better. Their respect for you will likely increase over time and their ageist ideas will begin to disappear.