starting a degree in adulthood

[mountainboo]

Hi, I commence an undergraduate degree in Geosciences with the Open University in September. I'm concerned because I'm now 25 and haven't studied since I was 17. Also I did terribly in my GCSE's getting an E in both sciences. Has anyone else been in a similar situation? Am I living in a dream world thinking I can do it? Thanking you in advance

[alijangra]

Im 27 and will be starting a Masters degree in Pharmacy at University very soon. I have not studied for years either since I trained to be a nurse. Im a bit nervous but I think I will be alot more determined and focused than I was when I was younger. Good luck and Im sure you will get on great! Alison

[Clanad]

Most of the family or friends I know that started higher education later in life (one was 48 years old) have done amzaingly well. I attribute that success to motivation. They choose to be there rather than just responding to peer or parental pressure as a youth. Additionally, although they may have to reestablish study habits, they seem to have had fewer distractions from a chosen goal... At any rate, best of success!

[agapis]

live the dream mate. go for it. im 27 and starting a foundation degree in applied science and technology.
i want to get involved with the space program! far out? maybe, but you gotta try.
i'd suggest going on a foundation degree though, instead of OU, simply because you get student loans and grants!
hurray!
my gcses werent great, but im going to pay for tuition in maths.
hope it works out for you.

[mountainboo]

Thank you to all above, that gives me hope and confidence. Space program.. wow... go for it, sounds great.

[crete]

you are 25 just a youngster if you are studying something you are interested in you will do well ill send you a wee confidence pill in the post good luck

[saxy_jag]

I've been an OU student for some time now. Although I began with them, I took a break and did a full time Arts degree before coming back to them for the hell of it.

Like you, I left school with very little other than bad memories, and OU study has given me the confidence to branch out and study elsewhere, in turn furthering that confidence.

OU are very good with 'first time' and under-confident students, starting you out with the basics and building up from there, although you'll get the most benefit if you're totally honest with yourself about your existing abilities. If necessary, start with a course that takes you back over stuff you've already done.

True, you don't get the grants and loans with OU, although they do have a fund you can apply to if things are difficult. You can also pay your fees by instalment and defer indefinitely if you need to.

You are not living in a dream world - all you have to do is believe in yourself and not be too proud to seek help if you're struggling.

Oh, and summer school's are mucho fun!!!!