We interviewed a couple of mature students on going back to study and their reasons and experiences of being an older student. Sally, 29, from Chester is currently studying A2 Human Biology and next year is hoping to do a full-time degree in diagnostic radiography. Pete, 32, from Hoylake recently completed a Creative Writing Masters (MA) while working part-time.

Why go back to study?
‘Variety of reasons – need to have a proper fulfilling career rather than a job that I just fell into many years ago, coupled with a strong sense of not living up to any potential I may have. I will become an acknowledged technical professional in an area where there are chronic shortages worldwide.’ Sally

‘I wanted to stretch myself creatively and judge how far my writing had got and how much further it had to go before I could make a living from it. I gained confidence in my writing ability but also an insight into how difficult it is to become a reasonably paid artist. I remain a happy amateur.’ Pete

Have you studied before?
‘Yep – A levels 13 years ago (groan) and I already have two degrees.’ Sally

‘At my school University was considered to be ‘the next step’ and a ‘must’ but looking back I was too young at the time to appreciate the opportunity. Life has since given me more valuable lessons than my first degree in social sciences.’ Pete

How is it different being a mature student?
‘Well I’ll be living at home first of all so the experience of being at uni will be quite different. Also 60 per cent of my course will be hospital-based so I guess it will be much more practical/vocational than my first degree and it’s all geared up to a career. Last year when I did my AS I found that the older people on the course were more dedicated as the course was a means to an end.’ Sally

‘I was able to combine the office work I still enjoyed with an appreciation of the extra time and space available to think and create.‘ Pete

Bernie
February 2007

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