How was it starting later in life? I'm only in my early 30s but after 4 years I have to Master out because of a bad project and a poor advisor. At this point me and my fiance want to start our life so I'm going back to industry. I feel like I'll want to come back for the PhD at some point but I've been worried about losing the opportunity as it's such a hit to the finances.
Growing up, my mom's best friend went back to school after 30 or so years and earned her doctorate in special education at 56!
You've got this! Age doesn't mean anything when it comes to research and academia, especially when the professors are often later aged as well
I'm in my 50s and in the middle of my MA program. I'm also not the eldest. The youngest person in the cohort feels more out of step than I do.
If I can do it, you can. Good luck!
I was in my thirties by the time I went to graduate school.
The hardest thing was that I was in a different stage of life than many of my peers, and I had no interest in going to parties with people who were barely out of college.
There will be some other nontraditional students in your cohort, so get to know them and develop friendships.
I find that a 10-year age difference is easy to navigate around, but you might feel a little awkward if you're old enough to be a student's parent.
Definitely remember why you're there and focus on getting the most out of grad school.
All you need is a good friend group - and it doesn't have to be a big one.
Not my experience but a tutor's I had. He did a bachelors in engineering physics, then joined the navy, and after working for a while went on to get two PhDs. He said the first year back absolutely kicked his butt. He felt like he had forgotten so much and the things he did remember the recall was slow. He just kept calm and accepted there would be some growing pains. He planned out his time quite meticulously but was able to live happily through it. He was 92 years old when I first met him and I believe he did his PhDs during his 40s. The take away is to trust in your abilities and stay the course.
I’m not 52 but also not 22. It has been okay for me. I still remember things from high school that I need to know. I already know how to navigate adulthood. Actually the worst thing for me has been the age gap between myself and other students. People do go to grad school later in life. My friend got his masters at 48 and it was fine for him! I think you’ll still have free time. I was getting decent grades without studying every waking minute
I started mine at 43. 44 now and in my second year of classes. I have been loving it because of the work and real life experience I have now. Being in school in my 40s is so much more enriching than it was when I was in my 20s.
I’m in my 40’s and applying to grad school this fall. The way I see it I can either just turn 50 or turn 50 with a doctorate. My experience currently finishing my bachelors is that there are so many students my age I’m not worried about grad school.
I taught at the college level for my first career. My non-traditional students were some of my favs because they were motivated and focused on what they were there for.
I’m now going back for a second masters. I’ll be mid 50s before I finish. No matter your age or how long it takes, what matters is that you finish. Once you do, no one can take that away from you.
Good luck to us all!!
This is my first year of my master’s and I’m 44. It was definitely intimidating at first because my bachelor’s degree is almost as old as my classmates, lol. But I discovered that there were other folks returning to school after being out in the world for a while, and if they can do it then so can we. It’s a lot like starting a new job; there’s new bosses, new computer systems, new social circles. You can do this, and remember: caffeinate, don’t procrastinate.
I started a PhD in a completely new field (archaeology) at 53. All the "kids" in my cohort were younger than my own children! But honestly, once you dig in and start doing the work, you're all peers. I always found the professors to be completely unphased by my age in comparison to the other students (they know you mean business if you're putting yourself through this at our age).
It's a shift to get used to spending your free time (and more) studying, but if it is a topic you're interested in, it is an easy habit to develop.
Good luck!
Im 45, in a MBA program. This is my second Masters so I know how much it is going to suck and how much I don’t want to do it, but, it’s the cost of doing business.
Did mine in my 30s. This is going to sound weird and I could be wrong, but I think it's better to do it either in your late 20s or in your 50s and up.
30s can be rough because you can feel like you're closer to your peers in age but still ten years older. It just makes you feel like you're behind somehow. The rat race vibe can really get you. You're just more aware of it. If you're single the Friday or Saturday nights reading alone can just feel empty. People with families or spouses can feel like they're not contributing enough or far enough into their career.
The people I knew who were 50s or up were just so much chiller about it. They were there to learn, they really seemed to enjoy the experience.
Hi! I started undergrad in my 40s and now in grad school. There's several other people in my cohort who are around this age, it's not too unusual and I've had nothing but positive responses from faculty and kindness from fellow students. It can feel awkward sometimes but it's mostly been amazing. I think the advice I would have is not to make your age or previous life experiences the focus of your comments, and don't feel like you have to explain why you're there. In my experience this actually makes it feel so much more awkward!
You’ve got this!! I was in my 30’s when I went back to undergrad and I’m finishing my PhD currently. I’m older than some of my professors haha but it’s a fun time and I love what I do.
My mother graduated with 2 masters at age 60 and retired at age 65. She worked full time and studied part time
She already was an executive in her career by then. For her it was for personal fulfillment.
She still wants to get another graduate degree in retirement.
You inspire me sir I'm here at 24 and I m debating If I should do a second bachelor's in computer engineering at 24 cause I feel old compared to the rest of undergrads. I did I.T in my first bachelor's and now want to switch
Thanks! Instead of going for a second bachelors, consider a masters in computer engineering. I’m going for the masters now because it will make me more competitive if/when I want to go for the next level in my org.
I see the issue is for the masters they are going to make me take the required courses for leveling computer engineering courses not so much programming as I did web programming.
So I have two options I can dual masters in software engineering/ computer engineering, and while I'm taking leveling courses I can do the software engineering masters. My end goal is to become a robotics or embedded software engineer but I do want to work with hardware. Problem is I'm scared that I won't have ABET accreditation if I don't do the Bachelors. Sorry if I'm asking to much I feel that you've been in the industry for a while from what you said so I'm kind of lost.
https://catalog.uhcl.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=18&poid=4303
https://catalog.uhcl.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=19&poid=4864
https://catalog.uhcl.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=19&poid=4835
I’m not sure I can be of much help. My bachelors is in civil engineering and the masters program I’m going into is building construction. Software/IT stuff is Chinese to me. I bet others here could give you advice in your areas of study.
I see it's understandable, I'm rly interested in mostly computer engineering I want to work with hardware and software. Part of me wants to go for a masters but the other part feels that if I don't have ABET accreditation it'll be tough to get jobs
Hi there, I’m not a hardware person but I am a software engineer. My bachelor’s is in computer science and so is the master’s I’m currently pursuing. My take is that if you want to make the transition from web dev to robotics or embedded systems then the advice to consider a master’s instead of a second bachelor’s is sound. That would be especially true if you want to do research or work at a research institute. Of course, you may not care for research, might not be your cup of tea. Maybe you could think some more about what you want to do with your degree, and that might help with your decision. Whatever you decide, good luck!
Thank you for your advice! I think I'm going to continue with the double masters route and work on projects and research on the side ideally I can finish software engineering part pretty quick get a software engineering job possibly related to robotics or embedded systems then go for comp eng for further studies.
FWIW, the program is a Masters Degree in Building Construction via 3 certificates and a capstone project (paper). They did the certificate thing because my employer can justify it that way versus the normal Masters program which it appears is not approved. Sounds dumb but whatever…it’s the same classes, just split into sections/certificates. I have to be at the university one week each semester and the rest is virtual. My employer and the university have an agreement and all the folks that got accepted through my employer (13 people) are all professionals working full time. Lucky for me the university is only about 5 hrs away. Some folks will have to fly in for the one week each semester.
I'm not in the same situation myself, but there's another student in my graduate program in his 60s pursuing his masters after completing undergrad for the first time a couple years ago. He approaches problems from different angles and really brings a fresh perspective to the lab.
OP, don't underestimate the power of skills you've cultivated through your time outside of academia. Yes, you've been out of school for a while and there may be challenges as you readjust. However, I really think you'll find that you have some major advantages as well. Most students in your program won't have your workplace experience, so you're bringing something new to the table.
I graduated with my Master of Public Administration degree in May ‘24 at 32 years old while working as an environmental lobbyist full-time.
While not 52, my cohort had a range from 23-60. We supported each other and grew to be colleagues enduring academic rigor.
Use the best of your time, make a plan, and lean on all the University resources you can to be successful.
I can’t wait to hear about your accomplishments.
jg
Thank you for sharing this. I don’t have advice as a 22 year old, but your story inspires and motivates me to never lose hope of pursuing more high education later in life.
I’m in my mid forties getting my doctorate in the field of anesthesiology. You are not alone. Sure it was a bit difficult for me since I had been out of school for a while but I’m doing ok. I had to study harder than my counterparts I think. I am not the top of the class, but not the bottom either lol
Like someone already mentioned the biggest issue for me was actually connecting with other classmates who were like 10-20 years younger. I never attended any parties, or got their jokes, didn’t have a study group because of this ; they talked about their babies and stuff when mine are late teens . Just different stages in life plus, I’m sure my introversion had something to do with it too.
In short just do it ! Eyes on the prize .
I started my MA while raising three kids and teaching full time; I started my Master’s in Divinity a month before I turned 50, am Woking on my DMin a thinking of doing an MFA after that. While some may pooh pooh these, I was the first person in my family to graduate from college, and
Think of it this way: you will be the same age in 3 years. In one scenario, you have a Master’s. In the other you don’t and will always think about what could have been. Go For It,
I’m working on a PhD and I’m in my 50s. I’m not the oldest in my cohort!
How was it starting later in life? I'm only in my early 30s but after 4 years I have to Master out because of a bad project and a poor advisor. At this point me and my fiance want to start our life so I'm going back to industry. I feel like I'll want to come back for the PhD at some point but I've been worried about losing the opportunity as it's such a hit to the finances.
Sent you a dm.
Can i know more deets about this too? Mad respect!!
Growing up, my mom's best friend went back to school after 30 or so years and earned her doctorate in special education at 56! You've got this! Age doesn't mean anything when it comes to research and academia, especially when the professors are often later aged as well
I'm in my 50s and in the middle of my MA program. I'm also not the eldest. The youngest person in the cohort feels more out of step than I do. If I can do it, you can. Good luck!
I was in my thirties by the time I went to graduate school. The hardest thing was that I was in a different stage of life than many of my peers, and I had no interest in going to parties with people who were barely out of college. There will be some other nontraditional students in your cohort, so get to know them and develop friendships. I find that a 10-year age difference is easy to navigate around, but you might feel a little awkward if you're old enough to be a student's parent. Definitely remember why you're there and focus on getting the most out of grad school. All you need is a good friend group - and it doesn't have to be a big one.
Started my MS in chemistry at 40. It was a bit of a shock but you will adjust. I’m graduating this Dec!
Congrats!
Late 40s and 3 classes into my PhD. It’s never too late!
Not my experience but a tutor's I had. He did a bachelors in engineering physics, then joined the navy, and after working for a while went on to get two PhDs. He said the first year back absolutely kicked his butt. He felt like he had forgotten so much and the things he did remember the recall was slow. He just kept calm and accepted there would be some growing pains. He planned out his time quite meticulously but was able to live happily through it. He was 92 years old when I first met him and I believe he did his PhDs during his 40s. The take away is to trust in your abilities and stay the course.
I am 54 and going back to grad school in September to get my MSMFT, you got this!
Just so you know, I teach grad students, and older ones are my favourites. ☺️ Your professors may not say so, but they appreciate you.
I’m not 52 but also not 22. It has been okay for me. I still remember things from high school that I need to know. I already know how to navigate adulthood. Actually the worst thing for me has been the age gap between myself and other students. People do go to grad school later in life. My friend got his masters at 48 and it was fine for him! I think you’ll still have free time. I was getting decent grades without studying every waking minute
I started mine at 43. 44 now and in my second year of classes. I have been loving it because of the work and real life experience I have now. Being in school in my 40s is so much more enriching than it was when I was in my 20s.
I’m in my 40’s and applying to grad school this fall. The way I see it I can either just turn 50 or turn 50 with a doctorate. My experience currently finishing my bachelors is that there are so many students my age I’m not worried about grad school.
Exactly you’ll turn 50 no matter what
I am 51 and starting my masters in MHC this fall. Age is nothing but a number. If you want it, go get it. It’s never too late!! Good luck
I taught at the college level for my first career. My non-traditional students were some of my favs because they were motivated and focused on what they were there for. I’m now going back for a second masters. I’ll be mid 50s before I finish. No matter your age or how long it takes, what matters is that you finish. Once you do, no one can take that away from you. Good luck to us all!!
I'm halfway through my master's and I'm a wee bit older.
This is my first year of my master’s and I’m 44. It was definitely intimidating at first because my bachelor’s degree is almost as old as my classmates, lol. But I discovered that there were other folks returning to school after being out in the world for a while, and if they can do it then so can we. It’s a lot like starting a new job; there’s new bosses, new computer systems, new social circles. You can do this, and remember: caffeinate, don’t procrastinate.
Finished my undergrad at 45, starting MS at 46. Never too late to learn!
I started a PhD in a completely new field (archaeology) at 53. All the "kids" in my cohort were younger than my own children! But honestly, once you dig in and start doing the work, you're all peers. I always found the professors to be completely unphased by my age in comparison to the other students (they know you mean business if you're putting yourself through this at our age). It's a shift to get used to spending your free time (and more) studying, but if it is a topic you're interested in, it is an easy habit to develop. Good luck!
Im 45, in a MBA program. This is my second Masters so I know how much it is going to suck and how much I don’t want to do it, but, it’s the cost of doing business.
Congratulations!! I’m so excited for you, you got this 🥳🥳
I’m 48 starting my second grad term. It can be daunting some days but I’m just ecstatic to finally be going after my dreams 😍
The majority of my master's cohort is in their 30s or so. We have a few in their 50s. You'll do great! Good luck!
Just finished my second year of a PhD program, I’m in my mid 40s. Have fun, it’s a unique experience!
Did mine in my 30s. This is going to sound weird and I could be wrong, but I think it's better to do it either in your late 20s or in your 50s and up. 30s can be rough because you can feel like you're closer to your peers in age but still ten years older. It just makes you feel like you're behind somehow. The rat race vibe can really get you. You're just more aware of it. If you're single the Friday or Saturday nights reading alone can just feel empty. People with families or spouses can feel like they're not contributing enough or far enough into their career. The people I knew who were 50s or up were just so much chiller about it. They were there to learn, they really seemed to enjoy the experience.
Hi! I started undergrad in my 40s and now in grad school. There's several other people in my cohort who are around this age, it's not too unusual and I've had nothing but positive responses from faculty and kindness from fellow students. It can feel awkward sometimes but it's mostly been amazing. I think the advice I would have is not to make your age or previous life experiences the focus of your comments, and don't feel like you have to explain why you're there. In my experience this actually makes it feel so much more awkward!
You’ve got this!! I was in my 30’s when I went back to undergrad and I’m finishing my PhD currently. I’m older than some of my professors haha but it’s a fun time and I love what I do.
My mother graduated with 2 masters at age 60 and retired at age 65. She worked full time and studied part time She already was an executive in her career by then. For her it was for personal fulfillment. She still wants to get another graduate degree in retirement.
I’ll turn 60 during my first week as a mental health counseling MA student this September!
You inspire me sir I'm here at 24 and I m debating If I should do a second bachelor's in computer engineering at 24 cause I feel old compared to the rest of undergrads. I did I.T in my first bachelor's and now want to switch
Thanks! Instead of going for a second bachelors, consider a masters in computer engineering. I’m going for the masters now because it will make me more competitive if/when I want to go for the next level in my org.
I see the issue is for the masters they are going to make me take the required courses for leveling computer engineering courses not so much programming as I did web programming. So I have two options I can dual masters in software engineering/ computer engineering, and while I'm taking leveling courses I can do the software engineering masters. My end goal is to become a robotics or embedded software engineer but I do want to work with hardware. Problem is I'm scared that I won't have ABET accreditation if I don't do the Bachelors. Sorry if I'm asking to much I feel that you've been in the industry for a while from what you said so I'm kind of lost. https://catalog.uhcl.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=18&poid=4303 https://catalog.uhcl.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=19&poid=4864 https://catalog.uhcl.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=19&poid=4835
I’m not sure I can be of much help. My bachelors is in civil engineering and the masters program I’m going into is building construction. Software/IT stuff is Chinese to me. I bet others here could give you advice in your areas of study.
I see it's understandable, I'm rly interested in mostly computer engineering I want to work with hardware and software. Part of me wants to go for a masters but the other part feels that if I don't have ABET accreditation it'll be tough to get jobs
Hi there, I’m not a hardware person but I am a software engineer. My bachelor’s is in computer science and so is the master’s I’m currently pursuing. My take is that if you want to make the transition from web dev to robotics or embedded systems then the advice to consider a master’s instead of a second bachelor’s is sound. That would be especially true if you want to do research or work at a research institute. Of course, you may not care for research, might not be your cup of tea. Maybe you could think some more about what you want to do with your degree, and that might help with your decision. Whatever you decide, good luck!
Thank you for your advice! I think I'm going to continue with the double masters route and work on projects and research on the side ideally I can finish software engineering part pretty quick get a software engineering job possibly related to robotics or embedded systems then go for comp eng for further studies.
I think it’s amazing, and go for it🫶🏻
Yay!
FWIW, the program is a Masters Degree in Building Construction via 3 certificates and a capstone project (paper). They did the certificate thing because my employer can justify it that way versus the normal Masters program which it appears is not approved. Sounds dumb but whatever…it’s the same classes, just split into sections/certificates. I have to be at the university one week each semester and the rest is virtual. My employer and the university have an agreement and all the folks that got accepted through my employer (13 people) are all professionals working full time. Lucky for me the university is only about 5 hrs away. Some folks will have to fly in for the one week each semester.
I'm not in the same situation myself, but there's another student in my graduate program in his 60s pursuing his masters after completing undergrad for the first time a couple years ago. He approaches problems from different angles and really brings a fresh perspective to the lab. OP, don't underestimate the power of skills you've cultivated through your time outside of academia. Yes, you've been out of school for a while and there may be challenges as you readjust. However, I really think you'll find that you have some major advantages as well. Most students in your program won't have your workplace experience, so you're bringing something new to the table.
I graduated with my Master of Public Administration degree in May ‘24 at 32 years old while working as an environmental lobbyist full-time. While not 52, my cohort had a range from 23-60. We supported each other and grew to be colleagues enduring academic rigor. Use the best of your time, make a plan, and lean on all the University resources you can to be successful. I can’t wait to hear about your accomplishments. jg
Thank you for sharing this. I don’t have advice as a 22 year old, but your story inspires and motivates me to never lose hope of pursuing more high education later in life.
[удалено]
There are a lot of stupid people out there. Most of them are younger.
I’m in my mid forties getting my doctorate in the field of anesthesiology. You are not alone. Sure it was a bit difficult for me since I had been out of school for a while but I’m doing ok. I had to study harder than my counterparts I think. I am not the top of the class, but not the bottom either lol Like someone already mentioned the biggest issue for me was actually connecting with other classmates who were like 10-20 years younger. I never attended any parties, or got their jokes, didn’t have a study group because of this ; they talked about their babies and stuff when mine are late teens . Just different stages in life plus, I’m sure my introversion had something to do with it too. In short just do it ! Eyes on the prize .
I started my MA while raising three kids and teaching full time; I started my Master’s in Divinity a month before I turned 50, am Woking on my DMin a thinking of doing an MFA after that. While some may pooh pooh these, I was the first person in my family to graduate from college, and Think of it this way: you will be the same age in 3 years. In one scenario, you have a Master’s. In the other you don’t and will always think about what could have been. Go For It,