Common concerns

You can’t teach an old dog new tricks: surely I’m too old to learn anything new?

The ability to learn does not diminish with each passing birthday!

If it has been sometime since you last studied, then your local College or Adult Education Centre will be able to offer you an appropriate 'Return to Study' or 'Access to Higher Education' course to get the brain working again. Many mature students opt for this route prior to coming to university. The university also offers its own foundation years for science and technology subject areas which are ideally suited to adult returners.

You are never too old to benefit from studying a new subject both in terms of broadening your knowledge of a given subject and your sense of personal development and satisfaction.

What about my family and friends?

Returning to study will not only affect you. As you develop and evolve, your family and friends will notice the differences in you and your relationship with them may change. You need to consider how they will cope with this and also accept that some friends may be outgrown in the process. Try and include them as much as possible to avoid any feelings of isolation.

There is also the practical aspect of the demands that family and friends will make on you when you’re a student – you may need to be firm with them in setting aside time for study.

When the time comes for you to graduate, your family and fiends, old and new, will be proud to share in your achievements.

Will I be able to park my car on the University campus?

In line with our environmental commitment, the use of cars by students and staff, other than those with disabilities, is actively discouraged. Student parking is not available on the Plymouth campus. To help reduce car journeys to the campus, we have a Green Travel Plan offering discounted fares on local public transport and good facilities for cyclists.

If you are affected by disability and possess a blue badge, please contact Disability Assist before your arrival to make the necessary arrangements.

Will I stick out as the only 'mature' student

A common question – best answered with numbers. In recent years approximately 40% of undergraduates studying at Plymouth were classed as ‘mature’(over the age of 21 in the first year of their course). Although this figure varies from course to course, most students needn’t worry about sticking out like a sore thumb! Many students report that the age barrier becomes less of an issue with time and lasting friendships are struck up amongst people of all ages.

Will I be able to get childcare?

The University's Freshlings Nursery on the Plymouth city centre site caters for 0 - 5 year-olds. As places are in high demand, a waiting list system is in place, so you may need to be prepared to accept that a place may not become available immediately. The Parents Guide to Plymouth is an exceptionally useful resource for parents who are seeking local childcare provision and local Family and Children's Information Services offer a wealth of up to date information on all aspects of childcare - and funding it.

Will I be able to work to support myself?

This will depend upon the nature of your course and how it is structured. – your faculty should be able to give you further advice. We do however ask you to be realistic about the number of hours you are able to work each week, and be careful not to place yourself under too much pressure – not just for the sake of your studies but for your own personal health and wellbeing (and sanity).

Will I cope with the study?

Feelings of anxiety and a lack of confidence are not uncommon. Many people report worrying about being ‘found out’ or being in some way 'not good enough.' In reality, mature students tend to settle into their courses well and are very successful in their studies – often out-performing their younger counterparts.

The key to success at university is about:

undertakiing the appropriate academic preparation for study at university
enthusiasm and genuine interest in your subject
commitment to your studies.

At the Plymouth and Taunton sites, we offer our 'Transitions' days for new students ahead of the start of the academic year in September. Primarily aimed at adult returners, Transitions explores hopes, fears and expectations and simply gives new students a chance to make friends before the Induction Week gets underway.

I understand that I will be given a reading list – do I have to buy all of the books?

The reading list is suggested reading, although you will want to purchase some of the recommend books at some point. Use the library first and you will establish which books you think would be worth purchasing.

When buying books, check the various notice boards in your subject areas as students often advertise textbooks here – a much cheaper way of building up your collection. If you do buy second-hand check that you are buying the correct version or consult a tutor to ensure that it is appropriate.

As well as borrowing books from the library, you could also consider just photocopying the relevant sections of the book as you need it, but do ensure you stay within copyright laws.