Hi there! I just started reading your blogs and I’m now convinced you’re the perfect person to talk to about my situation!
Perfection is a high bar to clear, Steph, but I will give it my level best. 🙂
I read you’re getting a lot more e-mails than before (Congrats!) so I’m hoping you get around to answering mine soon. Let me not waste anymore time…
I’m currently working full-time and not taking classes. I went to a community college as a full-time student right after high school and received my AA with a 2.91 GPA.
Congrats!
After yet another summer break (I’ve never taken summer classes), I attempted to go full-time at a state university while working a full-time job at a law firm.
Ballsy!
What I didn’t know at the time was that working full-time & going to school full-time at a university as opposed to a cc, were completely different monsters. Long story short, due to some personal circumstances, in addition to the unexpected work load both in school & work, I fell behind and caught up in only 3 of 4 my classes. In the end, I decided to withdraw from the entire semester. Well, yet another semester later and still at the law firm, I realized I’m 22 & I can’t believe I only have 2 years of school to show for it.
Well, let me stop you right there and at least interject this — 22 is still a baby as far as I and most of the full-time job grinders of the world are concerned. You may be a couple years behind the prototypical straight-to-college-from-high-school, graduate-in-four-years type of student, but honestly, those seem to be more rare than ever.
I look at my job and while I really like what I do (far more than any other job I’ve had) I kind of regret not going the traditional route of full-time schooling at a 4-year university. Plus, I know I don’t want a life-long career as a legal secretary. Attorney, maybe…but not a secretary.
Again, looking at your situation, you definitely still fit the role of “traditional college student” vs. the non-traditional old lady who’s going back to school among a bunch of young hooligans who don’t relate to her. You’re not Drew Barrymore in “Never Been Kissed.” 🙂 And believe me, there’s plenty of time to go to law school if that’s what you want to do. If you finished school two, or even four years from now, you’d still be younger than your average law school classmate upon entry.
The good news is that I’ve been offered an amazing opportunity to attend any single university in the nation (that will accept me, of course) for the remainder of my Bachelor’s degree at no charge –tuition, books, room & board, it’s all covered.
Holy shit. How’d you swing that? One of my personal pet peeves these days is the gross overuse of the word “amazing,” but you get a complete pass on this one — that is pretty damned amazing, you’re right.
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I’m dying to get back to school, go full-time, get my degree, & hopefully start a promising career, as soon as possible! After seeing a glimpse of my future without a degree, I’m more determined than I’ve ever been to get it! Here’s my question: Is it too late to live that college life I feel I’ve missed out on?
Oh my goodness. HELL no. Really. With emphasis on the “HELL no” part.
What can I expect for a college experience as a 22 year old transfer with mostly a professional background?
You can expect to be around thousands of other 22-year-olds, 23-year-olds, 21-year-olds, 20-year-olds who have completed roughly the same amount of schooling that you have and share a great deal in common with you. You can probably also expect to be approached by a lot of 18-, 19- and 20-year-olds asking you to buy them booze.
No, really — all kidding aside, I see zero chance that you will not blend in perfectly with your classmates at a traditional university. I imagine the comments below will support me on this once they start to roll in.
Also, I’ve looked at a couple of schools but I’d really like to know what the best way to search for colleges is. I’d like to find a place with a lot of transfers who are serious about studying and minimal partying, ’cause I could really go without the distractions.
Well, at just about any four-year university, transfer students are going to be in the minority (this is educated speculation on my part — please correct me in the comments section if you guys know of some exceptions). Honestly, I wouldn’t recommend you make the transfer-student population a part of your decision criteria.
Once you transfer in — well, you’re just a student like everyone else. I was a transfer student (from Boston University to Southeast Missouri State), and while I was serious about my studies, I was also serious about my partying. And regardless of transfer status, you’ll find that a lot of students are that way.
However, if you want to avoid hard partying, then I don’t think that’s really hard to do, and I also don’t think it’s hard to find like-minded people. Not everyone — and not even a majority of students — want to get drunk three times a week and walk to class with a mind-bending hangover, even if that’s how you crazy college kids are often portrayed.
If you want to find the students who don’t party, it’s pretty easy. On a Friday or Saturday night, hang out in your dorm or the library or the student center or whatever. See any students? Yep, those are the ones who don’t party much. 🙂
But just to clarify, you may find some very, very serious students among the party-hard crowd. I’ve since gracefully retired from boozing myself, but I did graduate summa cum laude after taking my university exit exam while still legally intoxicated from the night before. (NOT that I recommend this, because I don’t, but you know, honesty is the name of the game around here and I can’t perpetuate the stereotype that hard boozers can’t also be excellent students).
I’ll be majoring in Economics and minoring in communications. The problem I find most with this criteria is a college with plenty of commuters and a lack of campus-life/community. Ideally, I’d still like to have somewhat of a social life.
The whole commuter-college or “suitcase school” thing is a legit phenomenon. I attended one of those (the aforementioned Southeast Missouri State). But a couple of points here:
a) It’s not too hard to find a social life if you really want one, even at a suitcase school. Depending on the size of your school, even if half your school goes home to Mom & Dad’s house over the weekend, that still leaves the other half on campus. And you have to ask yourself, how many people do you really need in order to have a decent social life? I mean, it’s not like you’re going to hang out and socialize, individually, with hundreds of people each night. If you’re like me, a few handfuls of good friends make for a more-than-satisfactory social life.
b) If you’re averse to a party culture, then a suitcase school might actually fit your needs better than the opposite. Despite what I just said above about being able to find a social life anywhere, it does stand to reason that if half the school is gone every weekend, then there will be a lot less going on than if they weren’t. So, in terms of distractions, there should be fewer of those.
Can you recommend any websites or other means of searching for the “right fit”?
Well, the best way to find out anything about anything is to ask the people who are already there. If it were me, of course the first thing I’d do is ask the people I know who attend the school what it’s like. After that, I’d probably do some guerrilla Facebooking — find people who go to that school and send them private messages. Introduce yourself briefly and ask if they mind answering some questions. Some will blow you off — no big deal. The ones who say yes will probably give you great information. Done.
I’m puzzled and could really use some words of wisdom. Thanks for your time, doc! I look forward to hearing from you! By the way, I’ve spread the word about you & shared your website with my Facebook friends! Hope it helps!
-Steph
Thanks, Steph, for the email and the love-sharing.
OK, plenty of comment fodder in this one. At 22, is Steph too old to fit in on a college campus? Will she be derailed by a party culture? Can she find a social life? Let her know in the comments below.
Dear Stephanie, I’m a 31 yr old pre med student. The key is that you will still look pretty young for a very long time. The only way your fellow classmates will know your true age is if you TELL them your true age. Not 1 single classmate one mine even can tell my age and last year it came up in class because of my professor knowing and addressing it and the whole entire class of literally 16 teenagers were shocked! The only person who will notice is yourself, and it’s only because you are more mature and will feel older as they will be childish and you are ther for business and not a play thing! So my advice is relax! no one will even be able to tell and you just might even act 17nish one day.
22, are you serious? Your still young. Finishing college at 25 or 26 is the perfect age for competing in the work force for top jobs. You still have 25/26 year old people hanging out with entering freshman and you would never know their age until they tell you.
22? Try 32! That’s how old I’ll be when I, God-willing, move to Pennsylvania in order to attend college full-time this fall to get my second bachelor’s degree. (Having no spouse, kids or mortgage to worry is a blessing during transitions like this!) Even though I’ll be living off-campus (to avoid the party culture), I plan to make efforts to “fit in” by joining clubs pertaining to my academic discipline and becoming a member of a local church which has a ministry specifically for 20 and 30-somethings.
There is no reason why a 22 can’t fit in! Especially with the great opportunity of a free ride! Don’t let your age hold you back, the later you go the more you’ll doubt fitting in. GO! Enjoy! Live it up! 22 is nothing 😀
Well, I think I have everyone beat! I will be turning 61 on June 28th. I started working on my degree in 2006 completed a diploma in 2008 and have been full time work and part and full time university. It is definitely hard doing double duo. I started university for the first time at 58 years old. I am lucky and look about 10 years younger, I question that I am too old but no pension or supporting spouse (acutally diabiled spouse to support) what is my alternative. I want to work at something rewarding, with a wider possibility of better salary and more job options. I am taking summer courses and plan to be finished in one year. If only I had not thought I was too stupid to go to university when I was 21, my parent would have paid for it. I do not stand out like a sore thumb, there have actually been two others the same age and quite a few in their 50’s and many in late 30’s and 40’s. Age after all is only in one’s mind. Be an example for those who are fearful like yourself, show them the way. See if you can get a leave of absence from your job. Do what ever it takes—you are being shown the route to follow. Face your fears and go for it! Most likely you will find, your fears are unfounded. Best Wishes
Maybe you think that twenty two is too old because you can’t imagine being surrounded by a bunch of youngsters having spent your time in a professional environment of a law firm all day but there are plenty of twenty two year olds on a normal college campus and if you continue on to law school after, you will find yourself right in the thick of it, age wise. The University of Santa Clara Law School, Where Leon Penetta, the former Chief of Staff for Clinton and current head of the CIA, went to school, lists their median age for first year students at twenty four. Also, if you want to go straight on to law school there are schools such as The Monterey College of Law, (Which Mister Penetta works with)on the Campus of California State University Monterey Bay, that will admit you with only an AA, given you have the LSAT scores. This is a four year night school, taught by practicing attorneys and judges from the Monterey/ Santa Cruz area that you could attend while holding down a job at a law firm during the day and working in your J.D. at night.
I myself have gone back to school at the age of forty four and those two schools are the directions I am looking in. Don’t even think twice about going back to school, you don’t want to get involved in all the things that life throws at us to keep us from school, only to look back in regret twenty two years from now like I do.
Do it. There’s people of all ages at college. I started after getting my aa at 23, and now I’m working on my masters degree. You do feel kinda old, but you’ll have most of the general Ed stuff out of the way (ie freshman classes) so you’ll have classes with more mature students regardless. Best of luck my friend!
I took 2 years off before I started college and I honestly thought I was one of the oldest people in my class at 22. Like you, I started out at community college and then transferred to a four year private liberal arts university. Honestly, at first I kind of distanced myself from people, assuming they all had different agendas than I did since I worked full time and went to school full time and they were all just young and partying. It was not the case. Once I actually started talking to people, I realized that I was actually younger than half the people in my classes!! I was shocked that I was right in the middle and there were loads of people in their mid to late 20’s who I thought were younger than me.
People are going to school later and later, so you should be fine. I absolutely loved my school. It was a private liberal arts college exclusively for women in Pennsylvania. It’s really easy to find your niche there no matter what age. Email me if you would like info about it!
Are you kidding me?? I’m 24, and I just graduated from a private university. After I graduated from high school I took a year off to work, and then it took me 5 years instead of 4 to graduate since I worked my way through (that’s right, I put myself through college at a private university–you better appreciate the heck out of that full-ride scholarship! Talk about easy!!).
22 is a perfect age. Maybe half of the students will be under 21, while the rest will be 21+. There is no way you will stick out–absolutely no way! Relax and enjoy your last years in college!
I’m 18, also have a full-ride scholarship to any school in the US (I will be attending UCLA). I think that regardless of your age, the opportunity alone is a great incentive to go to school. At 22, I think you are at a great age and will definitely fit in. College isn’t made up of only 18, 19, or 20 year olds. You can still have a social life and you can still party, but of course studying will always come first. Good luck! :]
How did you bank the full ride anywhere? Most of the large scholarships I’ve looked at are school-specific (Presidential or Alumni Scholarships). I’d be very interested to know – I’m qualified for a shot at something like that (4.00 GPA, 27 AP and college credits coming in, 33 ACT, National Merit, extremely involved in music, athletics, academic clubs, leadership, church life, employment). Money is easy to find, but big money like that isn’t.
I’m not sure how the NM program works now – but as a National Merit Scholar (’97), I received a full ride offer to something like 19 different colleges. Full Ride: Tuition, Room, Board, Book allowance, and monthly stipend.
May I recommend my school? I attend Southern Oregon University in Ashland, OR. We have a high percentage of non-traditional and commuter students, a very active student government (a great way to have a social circle without partying), over 100 campus clubs, great Economics and Communications departments, and resources for anyone and everyone. Our community is small, around 22,000 people, situated in the southern end of the Bear Creek Valley in central southern Oregon. It is also home of the world-renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival, and is close to many points of historic interest. If you are into the outdoors, there are hiking, biking, swimming, climbing, skiing, snowboarding and rafting opportunities, all within less than half an hour’s drive. You can check us out at: http://www.sou.edu
Many congratulations to you on your financial prospects, that is a large relief for anyone. As a very mature 23 year old who just finished a dual-degree undergrad, I understand your dilemma. However, my advice to you is to not get hung up on your perception of the social life present at these schools.
Anywhere you look at a four-year university, you will find a full range of slackers to busy-bees, but there are always ways to keep yourself in check. For instance, a lot of schools have some designated “freshmen only” dorms. I don’t know that this would even be an option for you as a transfer student, but it may be a good idea to identify and avoid them. You can guess what typically goes on there; a whole lot of noise, slacking, and bad influence except on the very strong-willed. Try looking into “honors dorms/floors” or university-owned apartments. My experience has been that students living in apartments rather than dorms are more likely to be paying for more of their school expenses, and therefore have a more immediate stake in their success.
For the social aspect, if the housing situation doesn’t take care of it completely, the best thing you can do is get involved with student groups. At the larger universities there can be several hundreds or more groups formed around everything from people-watching to athletics to foreign culture societies. Identifying groups with similar interests will be key in weeding out the bad apples and keeping your focus.
As far as schools go, most major universities have comparable communications studies programs. To be honest, the communications field is in a HUGE flux right now, and schools’ funding is getting cut left and right. Everything is moving away from traditional communications and toward social media, and guess who is the expert? I’ll give you a hint: it’s not middle-aged and senior university professors…
Basically, choose your school based on the economics major. To get you started (if you haven’t seen this already), here’s the National Research Council’s top 10 programs for economics as ranked in 1995 (the most recent study done; still should be a pretty good indicator):
1. Harvard
2. Chicago
3. MIT
4. Stanford
5. Princeton
6. Yale
7. Cal-Berkeley (public)
8. Penn
9. Northwestern
10. Minnesota (public)
Having gone to undergrad at Minnesota myself, there are abundant student groups to choose from as well as a wide variety of housing options and opportunities to find like-minded people/roommates. Hope some of this is helpful, and good luck!
Do you know how many 25-40 somethings are in college today? 22 is looked at as a kid now-a-days! Best of luck and work hard.
You’re afraid of the party life? Who cares about the party life, be yourself. If you have a full ride, why would you worry about the school (if it’s a good school, then take them up on the offer).
Sure, everyone wants a social life, but I am going to a school that has the 2nd highest work load in all of the USA. I have very little of a social life, yet I am still getting by. Honestly, just focus on your work; you will succeed in life if you do that. Besides, what does 22 have to do with anything? I’m almost 21, I’m going to be a junior. That doesn’t effect me, it’s just another day in my life.
Honestly, I don’t know what you’re so worked up about. I know an 80 year old that just graduated from my school as a fine-arts student. I know a bunch of 50 years olds too! They all fit in. Just find your little click of people to be with. Stressing out over your age is stupid.
22 is not old at all! I think she should choose a campus in a place where she think she will be happy and able to focus. From there she can join a number of student organizations. My favorite activity would be intramural sports. There are so many opportunities to social that don’t involve partying at all! I think there will be many opportunities to meet people who are just as focused as she wants to, and will be.
I am currently working a FT job, a PT job while taking 3 classes a semester while earning my bachelors. I graduated from a CC with my AA in 2008 and transferred to a private college with a large amount of commuters and transfers for my bachelors. For the first year I lived on campus, and did not fit in with the vast majority of the students. I had about 5 friends I hung out with on a regular basis. I hated the lifestyle, attitude, and immaturity of my so-called peers. I am not a partier-I have never attended a college party, nor do I have any desire to do so during my final year. I don’t think you would want to live on campus if you don’t like the party atmosphere. I didn’t fit in because of that, and I was only 18 when I transferred there. You are better off going to a school consisting of a lot of commuters, as I have found them to be of a higher maturity level, and ones that are not into the party scene. This is often the reason why they don’t live on campus in the first place. Granted, I did have high standards for my peers when I transferred. Because of my line of work, I wanted nothing to do with druggies, underage drinkers, general law-breakers etc. I did not find it funny or cool, nor did I embrace the whole ‘kids will be kids’ or ‘everybody does it’ attitude. I may be wrong, but it sounds as though you will be in the same boat as me when it comes to this. If a school that has a lot of commuters and transfers interests you, I can tell you about my school. It has a good law program, and it is surrounded by good areas with off-campus housing. I wish you luck in finishing your degree, and I hope you find what you are looking for in the college experience!
I suggest you go to a school that has many alternative students. Nicholls State University is one of these schools, It is in Thibodaux, Louisiana and there are many people from the surrounding cities who go there at a different age to continue their education. It isn’t that far from New Orleans and they do have apartments near and on campus.
That might as well have been my story. I had went to GWU straight out of highschool for about 2 years. unfortunately I was severely ill during that whole period, so I went home and continued in community college, hoping I was biding my time until i could go back. Well, that time turned into an AA degree, and a couple state championships as starter (volleyball yea!). That took 3 years, where the first year was simply getting healthy again.
I got to my present school SPU, this past fall. I was 22 (turned 23 in October). So I was a little worried about being too old. But, as a matter of fact, I’m not the oldest here! I’m housed with a lot of other transfer students, all juniors, and they all have these amazing stories as to how they got here. We’re all around the same age (about half are older). Plus i hang out with seniors, and frankly it is a blast. Don’t worry about being too old, because, quite frankly, there is not much difference between 20 year olds and 23 year olds in college (well, one group can legally drink but that’s irrelevent). If you have your AA, you won’t be seeing too many 17 18 19 year olds if you come in and go to your upper division classes. Good luck! And a word of advice: be a serious student, but enjoy it while you can; join everything, be involved, get around. You only have 2 years. I regret not going here for four years, so I cherish every second. You can only stay up past 3 am talking philosophy and quantum mechanics and physics with a complete stranger down the hall from you in college. Well, after you sort of could but that would be a little unsafe, and weird. ENJOY IT!
My sorority Dad and my sorority Mom are both non-traditional students. Allison is 24 and Katie is 23. We all live in student housing at a very small college. Most people I know who do very well in their studies are people who are very focused on school work (going to class almost always, doing homework, and putting in the hours of study required to do well) who also take some time to go and hang out with others. Getting drunk constantly isn’t the best way to succeed in college or in life. I think your fine. Go for it!
Try 30! I had joined to Army so I can afford college. I also have a family, I fit in with the students who really want to learn, not just party. I guess it depends where your priorities are.
I have close friends that are 22, 25, and 27 that are in college with me (I’m 21). In one of my classes I’ve even met a woman that was 65 years old, and she fit in perfectly fine. Twenty-two years is definitely not old. You’ve got a full ride to go to college and should take advantage of that.
I work as a tutor for a scholarship program for student parents, and when I think non-traditional student I think AT LEAST 30. I doubt most students will give you a second glance, and even if they did happen to notice you’re a couple years older, it’s hardly a generation gap. It seems campuses are starting to diversify (age-wise) as high school graduates who would normally go straight to college are looking for work instead, and those who have been working for several years comfortably are forced to pursue higher education after finding that their job skills are now obsolete.
Wow, kudos for that uber awesome scholarship.
Josh is right though. B/c the way the economy are these days. A lot of us are having a harder time starting our lives. Most of us won’t really start it till mid 30’s. So the trend of late or extended goers to 4 year colleges are a growing population. Also, being older gives u the advantage of knowing better and being more wise to what u’r priorities are. I rather waste my 2 year of college at a community college and learn my mistakes from there then make mistakes at. A 4 year college who charges u for thousands of dollars!
So congratulations again! And I hope u get into a great school. *towson university has a great law program ; ) *
Bc people I go to school with are in their 40s with their own families, and have an easy time fitting in. Most people in college are in their mid 20s why would you think that you wouldn’t fit in?! you’ll be just fine! Be social!!
I was 26 when I started at a university after finishing my 2 year degree. I have found it easier to gain opportunities because many of the staff would rather work with an older more responsible student. The older students (usually) are harder workers. I have also made many lasting friends. A few years age difference for you will not make college difficult at all
Wow– well done on getting such a sweet financial aid deal, Steph!
Now that I am 20 and just finishing my junior year, I think that I would have benefited from taking a year off (or more) after high school to let myself mature a little before starting school. I think I’m fairly mature person, but I think that period of waiting to start school and exploring my options a bit would have given me an edge over my classmates. In either case, I’m happy where I am now.
With that said, I know a guy that just turned 24 that just transferred to a great school in LA (after being at a CC for 6 years, trying to figure out what he wanted to do) and he is happy as a clam 😀
Don’t worry about picking a “party school”. College parties can be quite overrated AND distracting, especially if you’re living on or near campus and you’re trying to sleep/study/have a quiet moment to yourself. You can go to school in a non-“college town” with otherwise epic nightlife and still have a thriving social life.
I agree with Judge Josh– go to a school (when class is in session, if you can) and see if you fit in there. Make a list of pros and cons of what you want to see in a school. Is diversity important to you? Do you want to attend a religious or secular school? As a commuter student (and a student with a full-time job…wow!), how much time do you think you’ll really spend on campus, anyway? I’d pick a school that is strong in things that you are interested in– economics, and maybe even the humanities in general in case you change your mind. At my university, there are several mentoring programs that allow you to shadow students and encourage undergrads to open up their dorms to prospective freshmen to give them a taste of what living on campus is like. If living with a random student doesn’t bother you (hey, you’ll be doing it anyway at some point if you end up living in student housing), then I’d check that out. Call the admissions office and ask.
At my school, there are quite a few post-bac premed students (students that have finished their undergrad but are coming back and taking premed classes at a 4-year college) and they seem to blend in just fine. Don’t worry about it! Sorry, everyone for the long post, but I hope it helps! Best of luck!!!!!
She will fit in perfecly finr at 22. Theirs a student at the universuty i attend who took time of and revived her AA degree. She is 37 years old and she fits in perfecly fine you barely even know her age unless u ask her. In the university and college level being a older student is not a bad thing its an advantage since u are fully aware of what needs to be done and have had more life exprince them a majority of your counter parts. Your experince at 22 will be what u personaly make it. for instance my Friend lives on campus and her roomates were in their 20s they joind clubs and sports teams together and evrything was fine. Some ppl were put off but eventually came aroud. And u ur in u tewnties apposed to this woman who is in her late thirties so im sure u shall be fine
Im going to be 22 for my entire senior year of college, and went through our entire grade school normally. its just where my birthday fell in relation to our cut off dates for grades. there are plenty of people that go for five, six, or seven years depending on what their degree is in, or how many they are pursuing. so yes there are many people on college campuses that are older than 22, and you will blend in. its more when you are coming back to college from a twenty or thirty year hiatus when people really start to notice. but hey your not, so live it up, get what degree and college experience you want. and thats all you should care about.
22 and a full ride to attend ANYWHERE in the US they want that’s a damn sweet deal. I’m not seeing why this was chosen to be answered and published when thousands, actually MILLIONS of college students are struggling just to get in anywhere and find money. Seems like there’s a plethora of more pressing issues to be addressed…
Stephanie,
Pick a commuter school and take a slightly heavy courseload. You will meet friends for study time but not waste time partying too much (breaks and after finals – different story).
You can fit in.
I quit my full-time job to go back to finish at 47 and am really enjoying it (I still work 20 hours a week though). If someone is offering you the money, look for a school where you would like to live and just do it. You are NOT too old, you’ll fit in fine, you’ll have fun, and you’ll get a free degree. Can’t beat that with a stick. Unless it’s with the big lottery win, which is esentially what you have here!
HA HA ! The woes of a 22 year old in good ole U S of A.
lol.
I’m 22 and I havent even graduated high school. I’m working and saving up for an air ticket here in Manila to get back to me homeland, and that’s the ONLY time I will worry about college. Social life? Bah! Humbug.
Now here’s one question that’s bugging the justinbeibers outta me: How the HECK did you get that scholarship — NO CHARGE on ANYTHING????
If I wasn’t so suspicious, I’d say that’s a line from the book of a typical flimflamming con artist..
REALLY??? No charge? WOW.
At age 22, Steph will be in the same age category as the 18 and 19 year olds who are fresh out of high school. Age is nothing but a number. She should take the work ethics and personal standards she has acquired in her employment and apply them to her study habits and attitude about the importance of a college education. I am 56 years old and agree that on-campus living can be a distraction, but only if you let it. I believe Steph has gained the maturity of mind and body to excel in her pursuits because her decision-making process is probably more fine-tuned than her potential classmates. I, too, was a legal secretary after my choice to leave the college environment. I realized at that time that I was not taking advantage of all that college had to offer me because I wanted to party. (Frankly, I think Secretarial Science should be a college degree program because of the specialized knowledge that is required to be a GOOD secretary.) Remember that not all college students prefer to party. There are probably more who, for whatever reason, take their aspirations to be college graduates seriously. College life has a great deal to offer. You will want to be part of the positive group of people, who learn from the mistakes of students with negative study habits. If you are concerned about living on campus, perhaps your room and board can cover the expenses of an apartment off campus. Another alternative would be to contact students who are in your age range, maybe 20-24, as potential roommates. There are plenty of social activities that do not include the immature behaviors of some college lifestyles. Most importantly, be apart from — not a part of — those things that would hinder your achievements.
22 is not too old to fit in!! A 22 year old doesn’t look mch different than an 18 year old! I am 34 and just graduated with my nursing degree, I have 2 kids and a husband. The youngest person was 22! She was the minority!
Wow… Really? I’m 22 now, just finished with my bachelor’s and am going for my master’s.. and I’m the Youngest in my classes… it is totally acceptable nowadays to return to school, and in many cases, almost required… My mother, at 50, is taking some of the same classes as I am, and she’s not ashamed to say shes going back to school… She said when she was my age, not many people were able to go off and afford school, but now, you need it. She works in Human Resources and just received her PHR Certification… At 22, I’d say your crazy NOT to go back given the opportunity… Go For It!
i m 23 years old, 4th year of biopharm. I wanna continue for 6 more years in pharmacy school..
i think for studying , the age never matters. its just a number.
Now at 38, I’m not trying to socialize w/the kids (your age group) on campus cuz I’m doing things a little different in my life than say the average student (F/T job, F/T student, Single mom of 4, ages 21, 18 and a pair of 4yr old twins). I attend UT San Antonio and from my observations, you will not be in the minority… I’d say if you were coming in as a Freshman living on campus, then yes, you’d probably be viewed as elderly to a bunch of 17 and 18 yr olds but not as a Junior or as a commuter student. If anything, I’m willing to bet you’d be in the majority and would fit right in on campus…
Heythere folks,
That shot of Animal House – it going to be me this fall as I have a full ride at Central Washington University. I am 41 and back in college (chose the print side of graphic design 22 years ago and went from $40 an hour to barely minimum wage today with the affordability of color laser printers and the ease in which graphic software and the shear power of Word has removed the need for a high paid graphic artist for most firms)
So at 22 you say you have concerns of fitting in??? Don’t be concerned at all, the non-traditional student is common on today’s campuses. The hardest part for me (being a bachelor) is that I am as old or older than most of the fathers of the women on campus.
Socially speaking, that is where I see my difficulties… however I am not attending to party all night and chase the skirts. I am attending to get a new degree in a new field that will allow me to return to a lifestyle I had as a young man but as my previous career’s need and value decreased so did my salary and lifestyle accordingly.
However, the above paragraph is my situation, you’re half my age and will fit in just fine – both socially and in terms of appearances.
I was 23 when I went back to school; I’m 25 now. There are times when I see my high school classmates earning their master’s degrees and I feel a little left behind, but I never felt that way on my college campus. There are schools with a high percentage of non-traditional students; ask schools for their demographics. I never felt that my age was anything but an advantage as I still looked young but was more studious and mature than most of my classmates (even the older ones lol). I never had any trouble avoiding partying; I just gravitated toward career-focused, intellectually serious people like myself. With the financial part out of the way, there is not one single thing that should stop you from having a great college experience. Don’t hold yourself back due to hypothetical fears. Just decide what you want, and be sure that you get it.
I started a 4-year program at 22, and it isn’t so much a challenge to fit in, but you definitely notice the difference between the maturity of a 18 year old and the maturity of a 22 year old. I will be 25 when I graduate with my bachelors, but I feel that being older actually has it’s advantages. First off, future employers will take you more seriously because you are a few years older. Also, you will take your education more seriously because you are more mature than the other students so you tend to focus more on school than the partying. And as far as socially, I have no problem fitting in. There are always students that are a bit older, especially those that are doing the two-year degree first. I think she should go and make the best of it.
…full ride to anywhere that will accept you??? Congratulations! I am completely and utterly jealous!
As far as age/life experience, I am in a similar situation. I’m 21, and transferring to a 4-year university after completing most of my general eds. at a community college (no debt!). I’ll be 22 after the first week of classes. For the past 3 years, I’ve worked full-time and attending community college full-time – and have managed to keep up a 3.3 GPA!
I’ve found many times that I don’t fit in with many of the other students just because of their socio-economic status. When you have to worry about money, you have less time to spend on studying, partying, and doing extra curricular activities. Most of my friends & classmates still lived with their parents and had everything taken care of for them (some of them were very wealthy). Others had parents that provided for them but still worked part-time jobs for their own bills and fun money. I’ve been self-supporting since I was 17. I also work a supervisor position (I even manage some that are older than me that have families and more life experience than I), so I find myself caught right in the middle! I’m also very thankful though, because I know that the average college student my age doesn’t have as much work experience as I do. And I’ve made great friends from school and work! I’ve never really had time to “party,” but it’s never really interested me anyways! I have great friends and we all have fun doing things that don’t get us off track from school/work. And when we do drink, we only do so when nobody has to get up early the next day. =)
So, to conclude – being 22 won’t prevent you from fitting in.
As long as you have will-power and self discipline, partying won’t be a problem for you. And anyone can have a social life, just make some new friends! Joining clubs or just introducing yourself to classmates is easy.
Best of luck to you!
I hear where you are coming from. I entered college at 20, mostly because I fooled around in high school. Then about 2 years in I decided to switch majors to Computer Science. To make a long story short am now 23, in university, and have about another 2 to 3 years left (am also a transfer student, community college to university). By the time I graduate am going to be 25/26. This thought depresses me, especially when am going to class with 18/19 year olds who will graduate in 2 years. To make this even worst, I would really like to do an after degree in Physics. This means I would finally be done when am 28 year olds. This really depresses me when I think my brother was 28 when he got married, started a family, and had a good paying job while I would just be starting out. Through all this, a few thought keeps me in school. I really like what I study. When I learn something cool I want to tell everyone about it. What more, am sick of the shitty jobs I have to work and I DO NOT want to do them my whole life.
So I say go for it, at times you will feel a little left out because of your age, but NOT most of the time. You will meet friends, and yes some will probity be 18 (I have a few of these) but your also going to meet people your own age and older. The greatest thing I have learned from going to school is the differences in people. I know people from Kenya, Iran, France, New Zealand and a dozen other places. There ages have range from 17 to 51! It has been a wonderful experience and I wouldn’t want to miss it.
Hey Steph,
I just want to let you know that you are definitely not too old for school. You will fit in fine. I just finished my first year of college and the majority of people were in their early twenties. Also, as I am sure you experienced at your other school, age is so much less of an issue in post-secondary than it is in high school.
As far as the social life goes, it is so easy to have a social life. Just get to know the girls in the dorm rooms around you.
🙂
Blessings,
Teresa
I know exactly how you feel. I did 3 years at my first University, and then took a year off before I transferred, so I was 22 when I still had two years left, and my new school was literally full of 20-year-olds. As much as it’s true that a lot of people nowadays go to school later on in the game, it does really blow to be the odd one out, and I felt that way at my school. Even though it’s only two years difference, I’d lived for a year in a completely professional setting, and I felt that I had way different expectations than most of the other students because of that. Also, my school is DEFINITELY a party school, and though I can definitely appreciate a good college party, I feel as though I got my fill when I was at my first school.
My advice to you is this: go to school. Now. Do it, for sure, because it’s probably your last chance and you’re not getting any younger. Having said that, be careful with the school you choose to go to. Find a school with a lot of diversity, particularly in the ages of the students. That way, you can make a social life for yourself without having to subscribe to any specific party culture. Also, the comments others were saying about visiting a school you’re interested in were really smart. That way, you can judge the atmosphere yourself, and decide if you belong there. Do the classes foster an open, accepting environment to learn in? Are their lots of cliques? It’s a tough decision, but the more information you have about each school, the better decision you’ll be able to make. Good luck!
I’m 33, though I went back to school at 30. I fit in just fine with my fellow students. The great thing about having selected a major and being focused on doing your major requirements (as opposed to the general ed you do in the first two years) is that you take most of your classes with the same general group of people (obviously there’s some variation here, but overall people at this level of education have the exact same requirements to fulfill, so you get to know your classmates by default). This provides the opportunity for you to get to know the students in your class and to form bonds with them. Because all of you are focused on the same area of study, you have some common ground from the get-go and age becomes less important. Most (though not all) of the people I go to school with are 8-10 years younger than I am, but we’ve still got enough common ground that I’ve had no trouble forming a social group in these circumstances.
A quick word about commuter schools: I attend a commuter school (University of Houston), and one of the things I love about it is that almost no one I go to school with lives on campus. Because we don’t live on campus, we’re not forced to be around each other when we’d rather be at home studying, but we’re still able to coordinate activities that some or all of the group is able to attend. For me personally, this is far better than living in a dorm and associating routinely with people that I might not have any commonalities with (but whom become my social life due to proximity). Commuter schools offer the advantage of allowing you to retain your individuality and independence while still making it possible to have a social life with your peers.
And lastly, congratulations on securing such an incredible opportunity to further your education!!
One of my good friends in my state school undergrad was in a similar situation. She ended up thriving as an “older” student (at the ripe old age of 21 or 22) and went on to get a Master’s degree and now has a fantastic job. I’m pretty sure she’d tell you that it was the right choice, to return to “normal” college!
This entire letter is…dumb! Since when is 22 to old to go to school? What planet does this girl live on? The only smart question she asked is how to pick the right school. And why the hell is she worried about OTHER people wanting to party? Those people have nothing to do with you! Girl pick a school, work hard, have fun, and chill out!
Hey Steph!
I am 22 years old, and just finished getting an AA degree from a community college. I have been in school the last 5 years and I’ve done it all, I started out at the big state university with 500 people per classroom, ended up at a private college (which wasn’t much of a difference cost wise) that had 20 students to a classroom (more of a community college feel) and came home for a year to get more gen eds out of the way and got my AA out of the deal. I am finding that age is just a number, nobody really notices you’re that “old”, and it’s true you are more or less a role model to the others or their hero, because yes underage kids do beg for alcohol sadly, but it’s up to you to say yes or no and give your personal experiences.
We are still young. I’ll be 23 in a week exactly, and I’m going back to my private school for my last year. It’s taken me 6 years to figure out what I wanted to/could do, and I haven’t quit yet. This journey started with a bunch of failed music education major auditions at a state university and finished with getting the music ed major at a private college, only to find out “I didn’t really want that after all”, came home got the AA in psychology and am graduating with Psychology as my major, because it’s always been my minor.
So my advice through my journey is that the big universities can be more “affordable” (but it seems that you have the $$ part covered) yet, ineffective toward you being a productive student. 500 people lecture halls have too much going on in them and it’s hard to make friends outside your major surprisingly. (At least that’s what I discovered). My college is very small like 1,200 or 2,000 total, I love Clarke College, but I don’t necessarily think they have an awesome program for what you’re going into 🙂
I do see that the private colleges (at least in Iowa where I am) are very small and surprisingly just as affordable. The dorms sometimes can be nicer than the public colleges, but the education is what is important. When you have a smaller class size it’s easier to focus. If you learn better with less distractions, I would suggest looking into private colleges because they are smaller and sometimes that’s a benefit to your education. I know you definitely make more friends that way, you get to know everyone else and form long lasting friendships. I transferred to Clarke when I was 20 and it was awesome. I’m 22 and I’m going back this fall, still going to school after that as well, for my MA and PhD.
All in all, you CAN have a college life now. Plenty of people in schools right now are our age! 🙂 I think it’s cool that you have the experience you do also, you could look into being an RA for your dorm room floor even, since you are older and the “younger” students will look up to you, sometimes that has perks. Definitely go back to school… now especially because you know what you want your major to be, that sometimes is the hard part, and the average college student changes their major 7 times at least. There is not a doubt in my mind that you will not fit in with the other students. I think you’ll fit in just fine 🙂 I say go for it!
As for searching for a school, what I did was search for “location” first because that’s what mattered to me, then I looked for schools close to “home” or at least in the mid-west and narrowed down my results from those. Once you find schools in a location you like, you could go to their website and ask them to send you information about their school and your program of interest. I did all this by a google search by the way 🙂 Good luck to you! ♥
Robbyn
Go for it!!!!!!!! you are never to old to learn and if you have the opportuniy to recieve a full sholarship to advantage and get your education, Do IT! Going back to school at 22 or 52 is the smart thing to do.
Check out Northeastern University in Boston! We’re traditionally a 5-year school because of our Co-op program, but there’s still an option to graduate in 4 years, or just take the classes you need. The social scene is pretty good, but your social life definitely isn’t dependent on going out to parties or bars around campus. We have a great number of transfer students, and because a lot of people live on campus while they’re on Co-op, they’re all working full time jobs during the week and don’t want to get blitzed on weekends anyway! There are so many people here from anywhere from 4-6 years based on their majors that the age range on campus is incredible! I won’t have senior status until I’m 23, so being 22 on this campus is totally normal. The communications and economics programs are both great too — you can get tons of practical experience while you’re in classes and the professors are all engaging. Definitely be sure to consider it while you look at schools! Besides being in the center of New England, Boston has tons of colleges in the greater Boston area, the Red Sox, Celtics, Patriots, and Bruins, Head of the Charles, and the historic surroundings, there’s no better college town to be in.
I’m 27 and married and moved from South Dakota to Chicago to finish up a Bachelor’s Degree after getting an AA like you. I’m also going to a commuter type school and find that socially it’s actually pretty easy to get along. Just find some students who are more serious about school than partying and work with them. I have a couple friends I met school who are a few years younger than that wanted my help just because I have a few more years experience than them. I wouldn’t worry one bit about it and just go that free ride would be incredible.
I have to say that this is a tough question. For undergrad, I went to a Florida International, commuter school in the suburb of Miami as a “professional student”. I did not have a great college experience because all of the student’s lives were outside school. I did meet great friends all of these years later, but my bonds are not as close. When I was 28, I went to graduate school at Florida State. Florida State was so different than Florida International. Most students live off campus and it is a hard partying school. However, it was great for me because there were so many experiences that I could have with other students.
I was in a program that range from students ages 20-50, most were in their 20s though. Even at Florida State, there was the ability to party and find serious students interested in their studies and has rich lives outside of class.
The best thing is to find a group of people who share similar interests and some who share different interests. Even though I was older than almost everyone I hung out with, to them it was no big deal. We all had the same trials and tribulations because of our shared experiences such as balancing studying with jobs, partying, friends, dating and other extracurricular activities.
You are lucky to have a lot of options. You should make the choice based on the quality of the education you will receive. That you will never regret.
Go to BYU! There are many older students at BYU because many took 2 years off of school when they were 19 to go on church missions. There is also a great social atmosphere and many hard working students.
I went back to school when I was 24, and while I wasn’t the oldest in my class I had a number of years on most of them. If anything I’d say it had a positive impact on my social life, as I had a greater level of maturity and confidence in myself making it easy to cross social boundaries that some of the younger ones still held onto from high school. Now going into my third year I find myself in the center of a large, diverse social group that knows how to have fun without interfering with our studies (ex. drinking night after the last of our exams).
Use your experience to your advantage and show those young ones how they can have both fun and good grades.
Let me echo the HELL NO!!! I am a college student and I am a very young 57,All of my children are older than you, I suspect I have shoes older than you!
When you get to college, you will meet lots of 20 somethings, but also many 30 somethings, 40 somethings and if your lucky 50, 60 and 70 somethings. Get out there,it is a great experience at any age!
I have to agree with Ash. This “is 22 too old” question does not seem to be a valid concern. If anything, 20-somethings have a definite edge over teenagers in terms of maturity (an asset when seeking a college degree), and based on my own experience as a 22 year-old undergrad, other students seem to recognize that maturity and treat you with a bit more deference than their younger peers.
Not to be a jerk, but my recommendation is for J. J. to tackle tougher questions in the future. Responding to questions like this one are akin to hitting a baseball off a batting tee… anyone with an ounce of coordination should have no problem hitting off a tee just as anyone with an ounce of common sense should be able to answer this girl’s question (including herself).
Hey-I was at a community college part time up until I was 23, then moved to a campus this year. At first, it’s a little overwhelming to be around people that are a few years younger than you, but I think it’s a great experience, even if you are a little bit older than the people around you. I linked up with seniors and grad students that were closer in age and had a blast this year!
Steph, I was almost 22 when I transferred from a community college to a university as well. I got my Associate Degree in 3 years, even though I had to reverse transfer a math course back to my community college a semester after that; then I got my Associate in Mathematics.
I would say yes, you will fit in. The majority of my friends at the university either party or don’t, and either way I don’t party; and the people that I know that do party, they understand why I don’t party. Its because of my epilepsy and that if I drink alcohol, I will have a bigger chance of having a seizure.
So yeah Stephanie, just take a big stride forward, and you will fit in to a traditional school, I promise. Good luck 🙂
Duh??? Try 49 yrs old getting a bachelor’s degree and pulling a HIGH GPA while working f/t. In fact I’m doing so well I just won a biology scholarship (there’s only TWO of them at my university for the bio department). I can’t believe what a silly and superficial (and insensitive) question this is. Is 22 yrs old too OLD? Where have you been? Current statistics say that 40% of the university population are OVER 25 years old across the U.S.. Geez…
I agree with Ash… this shouldn’t be a concern at all. We determine how our experience in college by our own choices, not by external factors– just like everything in life.
I dont want to offend anybody, but I kind of wish Judge Josh would have picked another letter to answer, something that would need a more insightful response.
22? Trust me, that’s not too old at all. I don’t see any problems with that age– thousand of people transfer from a community college at that age, and still more people stay for a fifth year to stay at school and avoid unemployment. I myself am the type that went to a four year college right after high school– hey, I’ll probably still be at school by age 22.
being 22 years old does not mean that you can’t go back to school. im in college right now, and there are tons of people who are in their 20’s and 30’s that are doing great in school…it’s never too late to go to school
Wow. How did you get a full-ride scholarship with a 2.91 gpa? My son has a 3.8 and he just got a couple of small ones. You need to write a book for the rest of us!
33 here and in my first year of a four year grad school program. Also a single mom. You’ll be fine. There are groups to get along with and hang out with for everyone at most schools. Pick a school that has a program you like and let your personality take care of the rest.
Take it from me. The life of a non-traditional student is preferable to that of most college students. I am 32 years old and spent my college years in uniform serving in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other places I would rather forget. Going back to complete my four year degree was the best decision that I ever made. I had the opportunity to meet new friends and participate in activities that I never would have thought of before. As a senior with one quarter left I look forward to a happier and more successful life than I would have realized before. Go back, buckle down, and live your dreams.
Steph,
I am a 27 year old single mother and go to ISU. I do not live on campus so the everynight party culture doesn’t derail me, plus it’s cheaper. Most people graduate around 22 and since you have your 2 year degree you’d be entering as a junior more than likely. You are absoultly not too old for campus schools. Any college in the country has plenty for students to do that don’t envolve alcohol or partying. I say go for it because a free ride for a BA how can you pass that up. Since you can go to any school you want look for one with a little higher non traditional student population and I’m sure you will find one that fits your needs
Okay, first of all, first commenter, I don’t know what the non-Mormon population at BYU is, but I can’t imagine having different values than what I will “guesstimate” to be at least 90% of my class, and I think that is a fair assumption. I live in AZ so I have a few Mormon friends, but that is the key, a few, because there are only a few who are still willing to associate with me despite our different value systems and lifestyles. I’m not being discriminatory here, I’m just saying, it would be hard to make friends in an environment like that, but who knows, maybe she has the same values as most of the people at BYU. Okay, anyway.
How did this girl manage to get a full-ride scholarship? I am 24, just graduated from community college with a 3.3 GPA and had to settle for an in-state school because I could not find sufficient scholarships and did not want to take out $30,000 in loans. Congratulations to you, by all means. Josh is right, this is amazing, and I wish I were as lucky.
If you want to find a non-party school, just ask around. Use sites like the Princeton Review and studentsreview.com to get a good idea from the student body perspective of what the college is really like. I spent 2 years at community college in my twenties and my classes did have a lot of young and immature people, and sometimes that could be frustrating. Inevitably I did end up befriending some of my younger classmates, but I also made a few friends who were my age, if not older than me. The older students are definitely there, and though it may be a smaller pond to choose from, you will very likely identify with many of them because, like you, they know what they want to do. They chose to go to college for a reason rather than just because they think they are supposed to. Older students ARE serious and DO party minimally because they have real goals, and have to support themselves while trying to finance an education.
In my opinion, if you are looking for a school where the majority of students are more studious and less into partying, look for a smaller school, not necessarily a private school, even a public university in a small town will probably have that.
It sounds to me like you have been suckered into conventional thinking about college, the “real world,” the “rat race”, etc. There is no standard path. You make and follow your own. You are only 22. I don’t think you realize how young that is. I was 22 when I started community college. In my opinion it is better and makes more sense to go to college when you are older, wiser, and more mature. You have your whole life ahead of you. So what if you are 22 and have only 2 years of school to show for it? What if you were 30? Then you would have 2 years and a lot of life experience to show for it. It doesn’t matter. Just live your life. Stop comparing yourself to other people.
First things first, You are 22 not 32 or 42 half the individual in college or from 20-23. Yes the freshman maybe 18,19 and they may be childish but you many not have to encounter them. You should try to talk to students who will have the classes you have because the freshman wont be in the upper level classes you will take. Also the individuals who are in your class will be as mature as you are and you will feel at ease. You can have a social life, pledge, party etc. its just your drive. Also visit some school because every college doesn’t fit everyone. you should pick the college that you will feel comfortable and at ease. I suggest you should go on some college tours. Well I hope I helped you dear.
Be Blessed
With love
Charne (-_-)
HEy…Education has no age limit! I am 37…going on 38, yet looks 21! Working full time, abandones by husband, taking full load classes and pulled together 3.8GPA at this age. On top of that…I am the most active student at the campus joining all clubs ang organization and serving the community.
No …no…age doesn’t hinder you from going to college! COLLEGE is the only institution that ACCEPTS anyone at any age. Go for it.
Check out Hillsdale College
Hey y’all!
Wow…thanks for all your advice & well-wishes! Reading your stories and comments really put things in perspective for me & I really appreciate the positive input.
I’m definitely going back to school as that was never a doubt in my mind. What I initially wanted some insight on was on-campus v. off-campus living at 22. Although I didn’t make that clear in my question, you all definitely answered it…& then some!
For those that gave suggestions for schools, THANK YOU! I’ll be checking them out!
Thanks for posting Judge Josh, it’s made a world of a difference.
I don’t think you need to worry about fitting in! I had three classes (same major and teacher certification program, haha) with a lady who was at least in her mid 40s, judging by the fact that she has a daughter already out of college. She definitely got along well with people in all of our classes, so there’s no reason someone as young as you should experience problems! I’ll be 22 my entire last year of school (turning 21 this year), so you’re definitely not going to be alone in your age group. Besides, not everyone finishes in four years, so there will definitely be people your age.
Congrats on the scholarship! That is absolutely fantastic!
At my commuter school, 80% of the students work part to full time off campus, are not the “traditional age” (typical spread: 16-60, averaging in at probably 25-28), and are incredibly mature and dedicated to their studies (probably because they’re paying their own tuition!). If you go to a school with a high commuter population, or avoid the noob dorms and hangouts, you should be fine – I speak from experience with a year at a dorm only school.
In the case of the commuter campus social life question, there is quite a social life to be had if you get involved. Don’t be shy and talk to people! I highly recommend making friends with profs, tutors, upperclassmen (on a typical university) and anyone who asks questions a lot in class.
And remember, age doesn’t matter – willingness, interest and involvement does. One of my favorite classmates just graduated Suma Cum Laude at 63, so don’t let anything stop you! Best of luck!
If Steph is serious about her studies and determined to succeed then nothing- even the so-called “party culture”- should be able to get in the way of her goals. The campus is a diverse environment and residence is filled with a variety of very different individuals. That being said, Steph should have little problems meeting people who share her values.
I also think it depends on her maturity level. Just a personal reference: My boyfriend is 22 and during my first year of university we were both unsure about how he would fit in when he visited me. He is very laid back and roommates immediately accepted him (mi casa es su casa).
However, some 22 year-old are married, have children or a career, and others don’t even know what to do with their lives. Steph is in school like the rest of the people on residence and is not too far ahead of the others to make connections.
Steph, if you never give it a chance you’ll never know! Don’t pass up a great opportunity because you let your nerves get the best of you. Trust me, they will pass!
i didn’t read any of this but the title. i just want to say that it’s ridiculous to even consider this. unless you happen to have grey hair at 22, nobody’s going to notice or particularly care that you’re 22. 22 is not old. and i’m not trying to be an a-hole, but you’re too concerned with yourself if you really think being 22 is an issue. people have other things to be concerned about.
by the bye, i’m a 32 year old grad student. i’m older than most everyone in my program and of those i hang out with. it’s never a topic of conversation, much less an issue.
Steph;
I am a 31 year old, married, mother of 3. I understand about the “party culture”. My hubby just graduated from a state university, where he went to school with young adults who only cared about the next buzz. He was the oldest person in the history of that college to graduate from his program at 35. I believe that older you are, the better your grades are. This is due to the maturity to know that you are spending alot of money for an education. It is disheartening to see that people waste a lot of money to go a 2 year party. The key here is focus, direction, and shear maturity. If you have the drive, you can stay focused to achieve your goals. As you age, you mature. More and more adults are going college now days. I currently attend college. I choose to attend a more adult centered college. This helps to ensure I stay on track, and don’t have to worry about people who only want to party. And I am not the youngest in my classes, by far. You just need to research where you are intested in going to school and look at age ratios, if that is really a big concern for yourself. Everyone over the age of 19, has this fear in way or another. The maturity part is when you make choices to ensure your success. It is also when you push forward with your goal inspite of a fear such as this. Good luck, I believe that you will be able to accomplish your goals.
Hey Steph,
I’m only 19, and just finished my freshman year at a four year university, and let me tell you- at 22, you’ll fit right in. I have a few friends your age at my particular university; not only could nobody tell they were 22, nobody CARED. So don’t worry about that! I’m sure you’ll do fine. It’s not like you’re that 60 year old lady who randomly shows up amongst the teenagers in freshman seminar courses.
As for the social life… Well, I’m sure you know this and have been told this before, but your experience is what you make of it, and you don’t have to drink or party to have one. I spent my last two semester sandwiched between the off-campus apartments, and two frat houses. Every day of the week there was a party going on, and many off my dorm-mates would attend and wander back drunk around 3 or 4 in the morning. As somebody who doesn’t drink or like parties, I stayed in the dorm or visited the library or coffee shop every time- and met some of the other people who didn’t party. I made some great friends that way. And, of course, you’ll meet some great people through your classes, I’m sure.
I wouldn’t worry too much about it- I’m sure you’ll be fine!
Wow! What kind of scholarship did you get? I just finished community college and graduated with a 3.93, but I cannot afford to transfer. (Parents wont sign the FASFA) I have been looking for merit based scholarships but I could not find any full-ride scholarships for transfer students.
Well, I just wanted to give you kind of an opposite viewpoint. First of all, congratulations on your scholarship! I can tell you from experience that scholarships change your life and allow you to really put your all into your studies…they also derail any excuses you can put up about financial difficulty, etc, so they make you work. But more importantly, about your age, I am 19 and I just graduated with my BA and am doing my MBA in a program where the mean age is around 35. Also, I’m applying to doctoral programs for next year where the mean lies even later in life. From experience, you can make your age an issue or not…but it’s your decision. Likely, no one will notice and beyond that, no one will care. If people care it will only be due to their respect for you for willing to stand out. So, good luck with your studies and stop worrying. School will bring you many obstacles, but try not to create them from nothing…and I assure you that your age disparity is NOTHING. I started college when I was 14…no one cares…life is what you make it.
I read this letter and all I can think is that maybe there is some other reason that you are not taking a free ride to accomplish your dreams. Get off your butt and get back in school, or regret it for the rest of your life!
Hey,Its more interesting at 22 than my age of fifty. Plus,you do have an advantage by being older. The average student who returns to college is thirty years old and older.
Plus, there is a change in what you want in life at 22. No one is forcing you to go this time not a bit of pressure. Do it while you have the full scholarship or regret it later.
I transferred to a four-year university when I was 21… almost 22. I had earned my AA and was working full-time. Just like you.
I ended up going to a branch campus of a state school. There were no dorms, but that was OK because I lived with my fiance. Even at a school where there is no housing, there are plenty of things to be involved with socially. We have clubs, a student newspaper, a literary magazine, ping pong table, fitness center, and outings and activities sponsored by our student government.
For me, this was a perfect fit. The school had the major I wanted (not to mention the grad program I’m in now), and most of the students were older transfer students. For a while, the average age was about 35, until a couple years ago when we had a large influx of freshmen.
Anyhow, what is really important is that you find a college that is a good fit educationally… then look at the social aspect. You are still young. Your options are open. 🙂
22? are you kidding? the average university students is 30 something
just because students usually enroll after high school, it doesn’t mean 17-18 year olds make up the entire population
OMG! I so friggin’ luv this website… Thank you Josh! ya rock! 🙂
I know there are about 3,000 (I’m given to exaggeration, can you tell? lol) comments, but I wanted to put in my 2 cents as well.
I’m 22 and starting my B.A. in the fall, and I’m so excited! I’m going to Metropolitan State University in St. Paul, and about 93% (not exaggerating this time) of the students there are transfer students. And actually, Minnesota schools are super good about working with transfer students because of our extensive community college system (there are 47 across the state).
Seriously, don’t worry about fitting in and all that, most of my friends are in the same boat I’m in and we’re all having a blast with our experience!
BTW I go to the University of Maryland. Check it out! And it’s a metro ride away from DC…. PLENTY of nightlife there. I commute from off campus too. Not a problem!
22 Years young with a full scholarship and this kid’s priorities are;
“Fitting in”
and
“Is it too late to live that college life I feel I?ve missed out on?”.
WTF?
I think a facepalm is definitely called for here.
Youth IS wasted on the young!
I know exactly what you’re feeling but at 22?? No way, there is no chance that you wouldn’t fit in. I went straight into the work force after high school and didn’t go back until I was 25. I’m now 27, married….. totally not the traditional student. You will be wiser, more mature, and you have an arsenal of experience that no 19 year old could ever match. You should walk into this university with your head up because you are WAY ahead of the game! Not behind! I’m proud to be older and more mature with tons of experience to back me up. And even the 19/20 yr olds still find me fun and invite me to parties and clubs and crap. Also I found a lot of other students my age too and you will do the same. Don’t let it be a complex that you are slightly older. It was a complex of mine at first until I started realizing that nobody gave a sh*t how old I was. Now I’m proud! Go to school! Aim big! Age is nothing, ESPECIALLY at 22!!
Steph,
One of best friends and one of the most amazing people I have ever met is 27 and going to college with me right now. He is involved with almost everything all over campus and has one of the best social lives that anyone could ask for. He takes over 22 credits a semester and still finds time to be in student and professional stage shows. I think the secret to his success is being able to keep a positive attitude and to never make anyone feel like he is too old to still have fun with us or to make me (I’m 20) feel too young. I would not trade knowing him for anything and he is an inspiration to me. I hope that you can have the same successes and just remember to have fun and not over think the age problem. Hope this helps!
There is nothing wrong in that!mu elder sister is 33 years old and she just gained her admission in to a university here in Nigeria..so my dear there is nothing wrong in that just keep your studies up!
I’m a 40 year old married mother of 3, and I’m also in my third year of a Bachelor’s program. My auntie graduated from my college last year – at the age of 67 – exactly 50 years after she graduated from high school! It’s never too late to get an education, and who cares what anyone else thinks anyway? Go to college to get a degree, and stop worrying so much about the social part of it!
It will not be so weird that you will be 22 when you enter a four-year university for your junior year. At my college, which is a community college, a good portion of the student are your age and much older (30s-50s+). Most of the classes I have had there have had students of that age group, and they did not really seem any more different from students of the traditional college age. If you want to avoid partying, do not go to a party school (find out this fact out beforehand), avoid clubs and bars (especially those that contribute to the college crowd), and avoid the students who like to party (get to know the students’ personality before committing to spend a lot of time with them).
I’m almost eighteen, going to University in the fall, and as a possible representative of that agee group, if you were a nice person, I’d befriend you regardless of the age difference. I find that as far as social code, age begins to matter less and less as time goes on. Twenty-two doesn’t seem to me to be too old at all to be in University. I’ll be older than that by the time I graduate.
As far as being distracted by the party-hard atmosphere, that’s all about focus, really. Even in high school, I’ve known plenty of partyers who’ve done fine for themselves as students, and I can’t imagine University being much different. There is no reason why you should be pulled into the party scene if you don’t want to be there, and even if you do and you do, then there is still no reason why your studies should suffer.
Also I’d like to point out that partying doesn’t necissarily have to involve alcohol; I’ve been to some great parties and had a wonderful time, and done little to no drinking at all.
My word is, go for it!
My art teacher was in College in her forties, and she did fine with that.
22 is never to old. I am 50 and am still working on getting my degree. My university created a club just for people like us who are not the traditional age.It is called M.I.N.T.S.Iit stands ror Mature Independent Non-Traditional Students. If the college you are thinking of joining does not have a club such as this start your own. You will be surprised at how many people there acutally are who have the same ideals as you do.
Steph, if you want to have the full college experience, go to a moderate sized school that noted for the major(s) on which you’re concentrating. And, if you choose to live on campus – and you should since they’re paying for it – see if you can get a spot in the Honors Dorms. You don’t always have to be an Honors student to get into them but there’s far less partying going on there. Or find a college where the dorms are divided by major (I’ve heard of a few here and there but alas cannot remember any names). That way, you’ll have people around you who are interested in the same things as you.
Stay far far away from known “party schools”. Examples in my area would be University of Massachusetts, Amherst (aka “ZooMass”) and UNH (University of New Hampshire). Also, stay away from universities inside of a large city – there’s usually limited parking anywhere and limited dorm space – leaving them to put you up in a hotel or crammed into a 2 bedroom apartment with 5 other students. That’s my experience around the Boston, MA area anyway.
And, BTW, I’m almost 35 and currently having my third attempt at finishing school. This time, I only have 1 semester to go and it starts in 2 weeks. (Part-time R.N. program) Nobody at school is going to know you’re 22 as opposed to 19, trust me.
Good luck with whatever you choose!
Hey Steph! You are so young! No worries! I turn 41 this summer and am heading into my senior year at a small liberal arts college in Oregon. Last year I transferred from a community college and besides dealing with the culture shock of differing educational types, when I checked in for orientation, they asked me where my child was! I was not deterred though and adjusted nicely to the new transition. I attended classes and went home, not really participating in extra activities. After all I had four children and a husband who needed me! The second semester I decided to get more involved by joining clubs and working on campus. I even pledged into a sorority! I received notoriety for being 40 and pledging. So what? This is my college experience and I am loving every minute of it. I am lucky to have the support of my husband and children. I landed a great summer job at the University helping to plan next years new student orientation for transfer students and creating the student planner that is given to all students at the beginning of the year. I have been voted in as an officer to three of the clubs I participate in. It is what you make it, and NOW I have a social circle that is fantastic to aid in my academic pursuits and assist me when those Grad school apps have to be sent out. You can do it. Follow your heart and passions. But most of all have fun!
Good Luck to you!
Liz
Am a student in Nigeria am 28 years old and I am still looking forward to finish my medical school, leaving in the hostel or not should never be an obstacle to achieving any body?s dream of becoming what we all dream to be.
There are always people and associations that you can associate with in school? that will keep your mind focused in what you really come to do in the school, keeping in mind that a good environment and a good mood is very important to keep your state of mind in perfect way to focus on you studies?
To me I feel age is just a number and the real age is our state of mind, we can do what ever we wont to do at any age all we need is just determination and drive ?impossibility is only in the dictionary of fools ?by Abraham Lincoln?that Is my drive ?.
i think you have to be open mind and think in everything from a logical point of view in my opinion 22 is not old there are many people who are over 30 years the most important thing is to take it easy . with my best regards
asefhazem
22 is not to old for the campus life, I know several people who won’t graduate until they’re at that age or older. And not everyone in college parties into a drunken stupor every night. If your really worried though, you could always join community groups as opposed to campus ones.
Of course not, I am 21 and I attended a community college straight out of high school also. I now tend a university and still I work. The transition from community college to the university will be difficult though, not academically but socially. Unless, of course, you go to a university near home or near your community college. I found it hard finding other 21 year old”ers” to hang out with that did not already have their set group of friends. I still maintain a 3.0 its not hard but I do have to apply myself more at the university than I did at the JuCo! You’ll be fine.
Steph, 22 is not too old to live on campus. If it makes you feel any better, I am turning 22 this August and transferring to William Paterson University. I went to a community college for 2 1/2 years but spent some semesters as a part-time student and other semesters as a full-time student. I had to take 6 remedial courses, and also completed my entire freshman year at the community college. I don’t have an associate’s degree, so I am transferring as a sophomore. 22 is still young in my book. My stepsister’s boyfriend is 26 now and he lived on campus at Rutgers University when he was 25. He is still doing his undergraduate studies, and has 2 more semesters left to go. After I met him, I thought to myself, “If Arron can live on campus at 25, then I can do it too.”
I don’t think Steph, that you would be derailed by hard-partying life. As long as you say no and try to get involved in activities/areas on or near campus where you find people who study more and don’t party much, then I think you will be fine. All schools contain the high frequency of hard partiers, but please don’t get yourself involved in anything you don’t want to. Get yourself involved in campus-based clubs/activities that fit your interests and I think you’ll do great!
I will finish my undergraduate studies in 2015 at earliest because I’m a double major. According to NJ state law, it is mandatory for all education majors to have second majors. I’m an elementary/special education major with a secondary major in English. Good luck with everything Steph!
OFF CAMPUS. DO NOT, I repeat, DO NOT live on campus if you are over 21. Unless you like baby-sitting, or partying. Most of the people who live in the dorms are TEENAGERS. They will behave like teenagers, and you will have to live with them. You may share bedrooms and bathrooms with these obnoxious, immature loud-mouths. They are just being themselves, but you will have to deal with it. There is a reason older people generally don’t live in dorms.
No, 22 is not too old to fit into college. But fitting in is not important, you will be there to excel in your classes in order to prepare you for your desired career. If getting involved and hanging with the students is something that is extremely important to you though, 22 is an age where a lot of people are still in college. You will not be the only 22 year-old at a university.
Stephanie,
I finished my Associates degree in 2005, and I went back to college 2 years ago in 2008 to finish my bachelor degree. I was 25 years old. So you’re definitely NOT too old to go back.
As a transfer student myself (almost 2 years), I found it very easy to balance my social life and academic life. I was very set on my academic priorities before “partying.” It was easy for me to join a student club on campus that catered to my needs. It’s your decision to be a dedicated student and be responsble for your own education or just have a heavy social schedule.
At the age of 22, you’re going to blend in well at whatever college you decide to attend. At my university (UA,AZ), there is diversity of students including baby-faced freshmen, transfers to non-traditional students. There is a center here dedicated to transfer students. As mentioned by previous comments, no one will no your age unless you tell them yourself.
I’m a “traditional” student, having gone straight from high school to undergrad, and starting vet school this fall:) (I’m 22). Because I was serious about school from the start, I found myself developing friendships with the people in my program who were in their late twenties and early thirties, and if anything, I felt like I was the young’n!
There are lots of “older” students nowadays – my boyfriend is 26 and he’s starting a bachelors of psychology this fall.
I would say 22 is a pretty average age for a third year student – just go for it, enjoy the free ride, but definitely live off-campus (I started in the dorms in my first year and ended up moving out after 3 months).
Good luck!
What I want to know is how the HELL did you get that kind of finacial help? And how can I get me some of that? Lol like really
Wow…I am amazed. This is an older post but once I saw the title in my email I almost laughed out loud. You seem like a nice girl with a great head on her shoulders. But your concern shouldn’t be if your going to fit in, 22 is SO YOUNG! I have worked and gone to a 4yr university full time because I don’t have any other way of supporting myself and lots of other people on here would die for a full ride!!! ps: how did you get that again??? So I would take advantage of a KILLER oppurtunity and not worry about a social life at all, everything falls into place. And the only people I have ever met who were 18-22 in college and have or almost are about to graduate can only do so because someone is fronting the money, there are plenty of students of varying ages, from 18-70yrs old, don’t let this concern deter you! Good luck!
ps: I’m a junior age 28…if your concerned if anyone asks how old you are “say its rude to ask a lady that” lol 22 is young!!!!
dude I’m 27 I must be the dinosaur on campus…lol
Hey…well, I’m 22 as well, entering my third year of college. Not only that, but I’m having to transfer to a new college this year for the second time in my college career. I’m not too worried about fitting in…I think the key is to spy out people with similar values to you. It’s not snobbish; it’s just being smart. Your college experience is partly defined by who you spend time with. Don’t like the party culture? Me neither…and I never have. Just don’t hang with the partiers, or not exclusively. Make sure you have a solid base of some friends that share your thinking and values. Don’t worry, 22 isn’t so much older that you’d have a serious time fitting in. I wouldn’t worry! And remember that you don’t have to stick with people younger than you just because you entered in the same class (although a mature 19-year-old can be great company!). Meet those in the classes above you…seniors, even graduate students if there are any. Also, not all schools are party schools…try to pick one that focuses less on that–you know…serious academics, students that are there because they want to learn and talk to each other. It’ll be easier to find fellow students that like to be social without getting drunk all the time (I’d recommend looking into Hillsdale College…I almost went there, and I was very impressed by its academics). Try to build some lasting relationships if you can…you know, a few people that you really connect with well. It’s really quite valuable!
If I may, let me recommend a site that I found particularly helpful when it came to picking a good college. They provide completely independent reviews on some really good colleges, ones where you might have an easier time avoiding the party culture and getting a good education (and hopefully social life!). You can read three reviews of your choice for free; however, I paid the $25 it took to have a year’s full access to all their reviews…I’d recommend that. Hope it helps!
http://www.collegeguide.org/
22 is WAY too old to start anything new! Give up and die.
I have a book coming out in October dealing with this subject. My subject model (myself) is a lot older than 22. I’m back in school at the university that I attended 30 years ago and I’m having the time of my life. Go for the gold Steph!
There is very little physical difference between 22 and 20, or 19. Even if your “fitting in” were contingent upon your age, which it wouldn’t be, it is very unlikely that the miniscule age difference would even be noticeable; and if you are not ‘perceived’ as being different from the horde of young undergrads, then you will fit in just fine. You will see that there are going to be a few students in almost every class that may be in their late 20’s, 30’s or even beyond, so 22 is nothing by comparison; and these figures will increase as your get into the upper level undergrad courses.
In my opinion one of the major fallacies with the said and so-called “college experience” is that college, by its very nature, is meant to be a learning experience, i.e. a preparation for the quality of experiences to follow after an individual has been released with the institutional stamp of approval. If college were meant to be an experience in and of itself, its degree of selectivity could be considered nothing but social hubris or elitism rather than merit-based.
Girl, 22 is not old. I have people in my classes who are 40+ and manage to find friends their age. Trust me your social life will not be jeopardize.
22, are you kidding. You are too young. I go to UMD in the business school and most of my classmates are in there late 20’s and early 30’s working on there BA. So it never too late
in short…no.
i agree with josh this time. you’ll be just a tad more mature than some people on a traditional campus, and there;s no harm in that; you have a bit more worldly experience than they do and they may look up to you. I took time off of getting a traditional BA to ;get it together’ and it was 123 years before I applied to be readmitted, so one year or so behind seems like no Big Deal. for one reason or another, mostly having to do with money availability,. access to all classes needed etc…a LOT of students are starting college right out of high school and taking an extra year or two or more to graduate…OR they are taking that “gap year” and also in their early twenties when they are seniors.
22…. too old to “fit in” on campus?
Are you ****ing kidding me?? I am 24, thanks…. I’m pretty sure I fit in just fine…
Sounds more to me like this young lady is trying to give herself excuses not to go… because maybe part of her doesn’t want to?
To even consider not going to school because you’re all of 2 years older than most students is just plain stupid.
I’m 27 and I’m applying to 4-year colleges for the first time. I think I have way more to worry about than you.
Just curious, but how did you manage to get that full ride scholarship deal to any school in the US? i’m currently struggling to pay for school and had to take a year off because i couldn’t afford it, my parents have bad credit too so loans aren’t much of an option either. I would appreciate any advice on scholarships and such.
Thank you for this article. I, myself, am a 22-year-old with just an AA degree that is transferring to a CSU (by this Spring!). It’s good to know that there are so many others in the same situation–I don’t feel so alone anymore.
I just turned 22 and this is my Senior year of college and 5th year. I would say I was a little weirded out at first turning 22 and still in college, but then I realized most of my friends that I’ve been with since freshman year are turning 22. And trust me being an RA at my college and working with student’s from of all ages you really don’t notice the difference at all…Freshman yes there is a little bit of a difference because they are pretty immature. but most of my friends from college range from 19 to 27 so you will deffinitly not have to worry about not fitting in. Good Luck! You’ll do great!
Tell Steph to holla at me..I’ll help her out
I am 21 years old. I am heading to OKCU in the fall of next year. I will be 23 years old. My mother is 41 and working on her master’s. I would tell Steph to reach for her goals. that is what I would do
I graduated HS in 2003. I was a really big trouble maker and had a major issue with authority. I spent a little over 5 years in the work force(and overcam drug addiction!) before going to a two year school. I am now 26 and graduating this semester. I am very active on campus and have made MANY! friends. I am President of the honor society, a member of student govt. and part of several committees and boards (and work 20+ hours/week). I have an extremely open and welcoming personality. I am actually attending a four year institution in the fall and strive to teach! Bottom line is though, you just have to want it! Congrats and best of luck to you.
I’ll be four months shy of 27 when I start my Freshman (technically Sophomore) year. I screwed around a lot after high-school, had a few false starts at my local community college, and rode my bicycle from Virginia to Kentucky. All in all (except the bike thing) I wasted a lot of time.
I think, in a way, this gives us an advantage. We know (usually) exactly why we’re going to college. We know our major, our interests, and where we want to be. We also understand more exactly what we are burdening ourselves with (as far as finances go), and how to deal with life after mommy and daddy.
To me, it seems we’re approaching college with a more mature attitude, and are better prepared to face college life. I would say we have a far smaller chance of becoming overwhelmed or mismanaging our priorities.
And of course, among the predominantly younger crowd, we get to be the cool older kids.
Honestly I don’t know where people between the ages of 20-25 get the idea they are old. Especially 21 and 22 year-olds; realistically almost all of students who go to college straight after high school are 18 turning 19, so sophomore year they’ll be turning 20, jr. year 21 etc. Now if you’re 22 and going be entering as a junior. You will only be a year older than students who started off with the 4 year school route, and now a days it’s not uncommon not to go that route. Relax, you are completely 100% normal. As for the stereotype that most kids are partying it up, it’s really over exaggerated. If you live in the dorms you’ll have to deal with it a lot more, but the economy is shitty and most kids no longer have the privilege of having Mom and Dad pay for everything while they flunk classes because they party too hard. Don’t get me wrong, we have a good time, but I think you’ll be surprised; most students are very serious about they’re studies, and most have some sort of career to help pay for their education. If you think you’re so different you’re going to alienate yourself, which is completely unnecessary because most students are exactly like you. Enjoy school honey, and know how jealous I am about your full ride opportunity =)
Oh jeeze, excuse my spelling errors. I should never write immediately after waking up, I end up looking like a tool.
Here in Denmark I live on campus (granted it’s in a grad school dorm) but I’m by far the youngest in the building. by 7 years. 22 is so not too young for school
I don’t think 22 will be a bad idea. My friend was starting her first year of college when she was 20. Even my grandpa was going to college when he was above 60. He was a teacher and He loves to study. I thinks it’s better late than never.
I transferred to a 4 year university at age 28 (graduated at 30). When I transferred in, the professors and students in my major at first assumed I was just another freshman. Yes, that’s right–they thought I was 18. But even once they found out I was 28 they didn’t care. The real thing that makes people “fit in” or not fit in is sharing similar likes, goals, etc. The social scene in college is very big, of course. Your age will not be an issue. However, if you’re married or you have kids… that’s another thing. If you add marriage or kids to the mix you’ve got different priorities, etc. than your classmates. As a single 22 year old there is nothing different about you than the students who started at the university at age 18.
Pam is 32? I’m 33 and just went back to school for my 1ST degree. I wish at 22 I would’ve just done it and been done with it. Then i’d be far into my career and working my way up the success ladder.
Well, this article looks like it was originally posted some time ago, but it just showed up in my Inbox today (I’m a relative newcomer to the Judge’s site). Which leads up nicely to my input on this topic.
Looks like this has been said very often already, but: 22? Seriously? Try being an entire *generation* apart in age from your classmates! Now that is a weird place to be, and the weirdness has not lessened as the terms go by. Especially when one of your old grade-school classmates (an utter tool, in this case) is an instructor at said school! Yeah, that’s not messed-up at ALL.
Finish your degree and get rocking with your life… you are making a mountain out of a molehill. Trust me.