When picturing the average college student, you may envision a recent high school graduate who is pursuing their first undergraduate degree. However, that is no longer always the case, as a growing number of students are considered “non-traditional students.” There are many reasons you can be considered as such — like taking classes online instead of on-campus, or working full-time while going to school — but parenthood is one of the most significant factors. According to the Institute for Women’s Policy Research (IWPR), 26 percent of all undergraduate students have a dependent child, which amounts to almost five million students. […]

Few experiences are more exciting — and nerve-wracking — than starting college. Graduating from high school and moving on to college presents a set of thrilling academic and social challenges. Those social challenges may be more troubling than the academic ones you are about to face, especially if you are an online or non-traditional student. However, just because you are an online student does not mean you can’t be involved with your school. Even if you never set foot on campus, you can still get to know your classmates, connect with your professors, form rewarding relationships, and feel like a […]

Studying abroad is a quintessential college experience for many students in the United States. Each year, thousands of students pack their bags and take their studies to different locations around the world, and this number is only growing. According to the National Association of Foreign Student Advisors (NAFSA), the share of students studying abroad for college credit grew by 3.8 percent during the 2015-2016 academic year. While students who attend their classes on campus may be informed of the various options available for studying internationally, online students may not be aware that there are also similar opportunities open to them. […]

Without guidance, transitioning from high school to your first year of college can feel like a complicated experience. There’s no doubt that a bachelor’s degree is becoming more of a necessity in the job market with each passing year, but getting accustomed to new schedules, peers, and academic expectations can prove to be a challenge for college freshmen. Fortunately, when armed with freshman advice and information about available resources, this transition can be made as smoothly as possible. If you’re a high school senior or recent graduate, the following guide can help you as you begin college. It features advice regarding choosing […]

When you’re busy applying for college and preparing to earn your bachelor’s degree, it’s easy to let student health insurance take a backseat. Yet the truth is student health, or lack thereof, can mean the difference between graduating or dropping out. If something unexpected happens such as a car accident or natural disaster, you’ll need an insurance safety net to avoid healthcare debt. This guide will give you a complete rundown on college student health insurance. Here, you’ll learn how the Affordable Care Act relates to you, how to interpret important health insurance jargon, your options for coverage, student health […]

The internet is a defining factor of modern education. In fact, education has become more accessible and widespread than ever before because of the internet. From using digital textbooks to earning a degree online, more classroom functions and student experiences are moving into cyberspace — including, unfortunately, bullying. Despite all the good that the internet has brought to students, parents, and teachers alike, there are people who use it with malicious intent. And just as bullying has existed since the dawn of time, virtual bullying has existed since the beginning of the internet. This guide on what cyberbullying is from […]

Starting college requires a shift in priorities, and coping with mental health issues can be a challenge. When it comes to managing day-to-day life while attending college online, students need to prioritize their well-being. This means adopting healthy habits, avoiding stress-inducing activities, and communicating with others about how they’re feeling. Anxiety has become a serious challenge for people of all ages and backgrounds, and college students are no exception. This guide will help you examine your concerns, determine where you can get a mental health screening, and learn how to access additional resources. Times of transition demand that individuals learn how […]