Fitting In
Who Is Considered A Non-Traditional Student?
You may be considered a non-traditional student if you are: 24 years of age or older,
married or divorced, have dependents, enrolled in college part-time, have been away
from college for a period of time, or a veteran of the military. Non-traditional students
come from a variety of backgrounds and cultures. There are non-traditional students
in every major. They come to NSU for a variety of reasons and define themselves
in different ways. Everyone has different life experiences; however non-trads share some
common concerns. While other students are worried about being invited to parties, nontrads are often worried about finding time between classes and work and family to get
the laundry done and finish two term papers. Some times the many roles conflict, and obligations can be very stressful.
There are many departments and services which provide support to non-traditional
students. Although non-traditional students are often very busy juggling multiple
roles and responsibilities, it is important to seek assistance and support. Whether
it is to attend workshops on time management or stress reduction or to learn how to
apply to graduate school, there are many programs offered which directly benefit non-traditional students.
In addition, everyone may need support to be to be successful. It is also important to
connect with other non-traditional students, whether it is to chat about your experiences
or to see a movie and just relax. Whenever possible, network with other students.
Important Facts
Things Every Non-Traditional Student Should Know
- Most student services are free of charge to enrolled students.
- You are assigned an e-mail account through Academic Computing and you should check it at least once a week.
- Most university events are free or very inexpensive and are open to your family.
- The University Post Office is a U.S. Post Office with priority, registered, and certified mail services.
- Many university office’s information and forms are available on the web @www.nicholls.edu
- Family housing is available.
- The University Bulletin (lots of Scholarship info) and the Code of Student Conduct Handbook are available online under the Current Students section.
- Fitness/Wellness equipment and programs are available on campus at the Recreation Center.
Coping
Non-Traditional Student Survival Tips
Managing Stress
Stress can be combated, especially during midterms and finals, with preparation and sleep. Often, just talking to someone is immensely helpful; another non-traditional student, a family member, or a University Counselor can be of tremendous assistance.
Managing Time
Prioritizing tasks and learning to say no is paramount. Other tactics are: making to-do lists, avoiding procrastinating by breaking a big task into smaller ones, trying to do things right the first time, setting aside time for yourself to live and dream, celebrating your successes, padding your schedule to accommodate interruptions, working when you are most alert and utilizing time between classes or pockets of time in life to study, clarify goals, or just breathe! Also, keep an eye out for time management workshops.
Forming a Support System
Take a moment to speak with other nontrads as well as traditional-age students,
spend time with friends and attend non-trad functions and support groups.
Making Time for Family
Families are defined in many different ways. Involve your family in your student
life when your are able. Take them to many of the free University events and ask them to
help you study. Keep your family informed about your schedule; often, families want to
support you, they just depend on you to let them know how to best do it! When scheduling for school and work, don’t forget to schedule time for your family.
Making Time for yourself
It is imperative to make time in your schedule to take care of yourself. You need
and deserve this time for relaxation and rejuvenation so whether you enjoy long walks,
reading a good book, taking hot bubble baths, or other activities be sure to do these for
yourself on a regular basis.
Resources Available for Non-Traditional Students
University Counseling Center
224 Elkins Hall
448-4080
University Health Services
Betsy Cheramie Ayo Hall
493-2600
Office of Disability Services
137 Peltier Hall
448-4430
Career Services
110 Polk Hall
448-4517
Student Life
Student Union
448-4525
Advising Center
234 Elkins Hall
448-4088
Victim, Survivor, Empowerment and Prevention Resources
224 Elkins Hall
448-4080
Family Resource Center
448-4307
