Colleges with Mostly Older Students – Worth Considering?

Hey folks, a friend of mine mentioned some colleges have a higher population of older students. What does this mean for the typical campus experience? Is this something I should think about while shortlisting colleges?

Absolutely, the student demographic can definitely have an influence on the campus experience.

Colleges with a larger population of adult learners or "non-traditional" students (those who didn't enter college straight after high school) often have a different vibe. You may find more classes offered in the evenings or on weekends, more part-time study options, and perhaps a more career-focused, rather than purely academic, approach.

The social scene may be different too. While traditional colleges often have a vibrant on-campus scene with lots of clubs, activities, and events, institutions with more older students may have less of this. This isn’t necessarily a negative though. Older students often bring a diverse range of experiences to the table, contributing to a rich intellectual environment.

In terms of whether you should consider this, it's really about what kind of community you are seeking. If you're looking for a traditional college experience with people roughly your own age, then maybe these types of schools may not be the best fit. However, if you're open to learning from and with people from different walks of life and age groups, then these schools could be very appealing.

The key is to do your research, visit the schools if you can, and talk to current students to get a feel for the campus culture and whether it might be a good fit for you. Don't discount any type of college before investigating what it can offer to your educational experience.