Information for Non-Traditional Students

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.
• SGA provides free legal 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