Re-Entry or NonTraditional?
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Are you an undergraduate or graduate student who is returning to his/her education after spending time in the so called "real world?" Are you an undergraduate over 24 years old or a graduate student over 29 years old? Are you married? Or, do you have children? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then you are a re-entry or non-traditional student.
Re-entry and non-traditional students come from a variety of backgrounds and cultures. There are re-entry and non-traditional students in all majors. They come to UCSB for a variety of reasons and define themselves in different ways. We all have different life experiences; however, we all share some common concerns. While other students are worried about being invited to parties, we are worried about finding the time between classes and work and family to get the laundry done and finish two term papers. Sometimes, our many roles conflict, and our obligations can be very stressful.
There are many departments and services that provide support to re-entry and non-traditional students. Although re-entry and non-traditional students are often very busy juggling multiple roles and responsibilities, it is important for us to seek assistance and support. Whether it is to attend workshops on time management or stress reduction, or to learn how to apply to graduate school, there are many programs offered which directly benefit re-entry and non-traditional students. In addition, we may need support in order to be successful. Whether it is to talk with someone about a frustrating experience you had with a professor or to learn more about childcare options, there are many staff and faculty who are very supportive of the re-entry and non-traditional student community. De Acker, the Director of the Women's Center, is an excellent resource and can help you get connected to various services as well as other students. She can be reached at 893-3778 or via email at de.acker@sa.ucsb.edu.
In addition to being a successful student, which can be a lot of work, we also need to have some balance. There are many opportunities for social activities at UCSB (see other sections of this handbook) so take advantage of them. It's also important to connect with other re-entry and non-traditional students, whether it is to chat about your experiences or to see a movie and relax. Whenever possible, network with other students--the support groups, various housing facilities, and the Women's Center are good places to start. There is also a quarterly flier of events available at the Women's Center. Pick one up and make time to attend some of the events. The Women's Center website at www.sa.ucsb.edu/women'scenter contains valuable information for re-entry students.
Going to school can be stressful, but it's also very rewarding. Good luck and have fun!
--Sara Lubkin, Geology Re-entry & Non-traditional Students Association
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