I am really interested in studying political theory. I don’t really have a career path in mind, I just really like the subject matter.

I don’t think that I could get into a top 20 school at this point (unless I get several incredible internships). Should I go to graduate school? What schools would be a good match?

This is kind of a new idea for me. I never thought that I would want to go to graduate school before this year.

Any advice is much appreciated!

Thank you!

When I apply to graduate school and if I do not put that particular school in the application or give any inclination I attended school during that period of time, will the graduate schools still find out about the school that I had 4 F’s in?

I would just say I was taking a break for that semester and hence didn’t attend school if they were to ask on the application.

What is the minimum GPA for the following Graduate Schools:

1. Columbia University
2. New York University
3. Georgetown
4. Harvard might as well set my ambitions high.

A job well done on making the decision to return to school and attain your degree! Mature age students, also known as adult learners, go to college on a part time basis because of family and career obligations. Mature age students are generally very passionate about what they are studying and that passion brings a wealth of life experience to the learning environment and that benefits the whole class. They have sound time management and communication skills and they aim to be high achievers and that adds to their level success as a student.

Economic, demographic, and market trends have reshaped the landscape of higher education, particularly for adults. However, the important thing to remember is that learning at higher education is as much about taking control of your learning as it is about attaining your qualification or credentials.

Research has shown that mature age students face various challenges when they are ready to apply to college. They have to made balanced decision with the family about living expenses, keeping their current job, and maybe even childcare. They may ask themselves questions such as: Will l fit in with my classmates? How can I manage my family with my new schedule? I don’t like exams. How will I perform? How will I pay for college? Can I learn just as well online? Will I get a better job when I graduate? Will my employer give me that raise and promotion that is long overdue?

Some approaches you can take to get you comfortable in the learning environment are first of all clarifying what is expected of you as a student, connecting with all sources of support that you have access to. Getting to meet other students will create a support network for you must also focus on applying effective time management skills. A big part of being a college student is keeping contact with their professors.

As a rule, most colleges and universities assign all students an advisor to assist them with career decisions and course selection. Many instructors are empathetic of non-traditional students and they understand that they have multiple obligations. This however does not mean that students should expect not to do their work and still get fair grades – the instructors expect them to be self-directed and self-motivated. This means that you should be as organized as possible. Try setting up a calendar, to-do list, or checklist. Although not all students are the same, there are some things that are basic when it comes to learning. When you figure out your learning style, adjust your study habits to fit your needs and your schedule.

Remember that time is a valuable commodity. Organize your reading assignments and learn more about the most effective research and study techniques. Also, become savvy on accessing educational resources on the Internet.

In all this however, do not lose sight of life outside of school. Take the time to step away from the books and relax. Take a Friday evening off. Spend time with you friends and family. Take your dog for a walk. Anything to relax your mind. You will feel more stress free and ready to take on that assignment. Most of all, you will be happy with the decision you made to get that degree.