Note: The primary keyword for this article is “going back to university,” and the secondary keywords are “mature student,” “education,” and “personal growth.”
Introduction
Embarking on a new academic journey later in life is an exhilarating and transformative experience. As I find myself back in the hallowed halls of university after a hiatus of two decades, I am filled with a sense of anticipation and excitement. This time around, at the age of 41, I am embracing the opportunity to expand my knowledge and delve into a new discipline called Environmental Humanities. In this article, I will share my personal story of returning to university as a mature student, the challenges I have faced, and the invaluable lessons I have learned along the way.
The Decision to Return
Making the decision to return to university was not a hasty one. Last spring, I applied to study an MA in Environmental Humanities, a field that encompasses various disciplines such as art, philosophy, social sciences, and history, with a particular focus on the climate crisis. The aim of this interdisciplinary program is to explore alternative ways of addressing the urgent environmental issues we face today. Warwick University offered me a place, and with a newfound determination, I embarked on this educational journey.
The Journey Begins
Walking onto campus during freshers’ week, I couldn’t help but notice that there weren’t many “mature” students like myself. Attending a mature students’ coffee morning, I quickly realized that the definition of “mature” had shifted, with most students considering anyone over the age of 25 as mature. However, this did not deter me from pursuing my academic aspirations.
According to data from Warwick University, there are 857 postgraduate students over the age of 30 this year, out of a total of 6,087 students. While national figures are harder to come by, a government briefing paper from 2021 reported that there were 202,805 mature (defined as over 25) postgraduate students in the UK for the 2018/19 intake, accounting for 50% of entrants. These statistics indicate that there are more of us “mature” students than meets the eye.
The Value of Education
For someone like me, who hails from a working-class background in north Lincolnshire, education has always been a catalyst for change. My grandparents, Irish immigrants who arrived in England in the 1960s, instilled in me the importance of seizing opportunities through education. Being the first person in my family to pursue higher education, I experienced firsthand the transformative power of learning.
My undergraduate years at Oxford University opened my eyes to a world I had never known before. Although I had some struggles initially, I eventually found my footing and completed my degree. However, the desire to continue my education further, particularly in pursuing an MA, remained unfulfilled due to various constraints. I had to prioritize finding a job and establishing financial security, as is often the case for individuals from working-class backgrounds.
Rekindling the Passion for Learning
Throughout the years, my love for learning never waned. As a journalist, I constantly delved into different subjects, accumulating knowledge only to move on to the next topic. However, a nagging feeling persisted that I hadn’t fully appreciated the value of education during my undergraduate years. This realization prompted me to consider returning to university, to delve deeper into subjects that piqued my curiosity and to challenge myself intellectually once again.
Education, contrary to prevailing narratives, is not solely about economic usefulness. It is about expanding our horizons, fostering critical thinking, and nurturing our innate curiosity. Iris Murdoch, the renowned novelist and philosopher, once stated, “We are men and we are moral agents before we are scientists, and the place of science in human life must be discussed in words. This is why it is and always will be more important to know about Shakespeare than to know about any scientist.” Murdoch’s words resonate with the essence of education – it is about broadening our understanding of the world and enriching our lives.
Navigating Challenges and Sacrifices
Returning to university after a significant gap comes with its own set of challenges. Balancing academic commitments with personal and professional responsibilities requires careful planning and prioritization. As a mature student without children, I am fortunate to have more time and flexibility compared to my peers who are parents. Living close to the university allows me to commute, keeping living costs manageable.
Financial considerations also play a significant role in the decision to return to education. While I am able to cover my fees with the government’s postgraduate loan, many students face the burden of substantial debt upon graduation. The average debt for a student graduating in England in 2023 is projected to be £44,940, a staggering figure that would have deterred me from pursuing a university education at a younger age. The financial burden should not hinder individuals from pursuing their educational aspirations, as education is a fundamental right that should be accessible to all.
The Value of Arts and Humanities
In recent years, arts and humanities subjects have faced funding cuts and skepticism regarding their value in an increasingly profit-driven society. However, it is crucial to recognize the intrinsic value of studying subjects beyond the STEM fields. While STEM subjects undoubtedly contribute to technological advancements and scientific breakthroughs, the arts and humanities provide a deeper understanding of the human experience, foster creativity, and encourage critical thinking.
As a student in the field of Environmental Humanities, I have the opportunity to explore alternative ways of addressing the climate crisis. This interdisciplinary program allows me to draw from art, philosophy, social sciences, and history to communicate new perspectives on environmental issues. By combining scientific knowledge with artistic expression and philosophical reflection, we can inspire change and encourage a more holistic approach to solving the challenges we face.
The Power of Education
My return to university has reaffirmed my belief in the power of education. It is not merely a means to an end or a pathway solely to financial success. Education empowers individuals, broadens horizons, and fosters personal growth. As a working-class individual, I have experienced firsthand the barriers that can hinder access to education. It is essential that we recognize the value of education and strive to make it accessible to all, regardless of background or financial means.
The journey of going back to university as a mature student has been a transformative one. Despite the challenges and sacrifices, I feel more awake and alive than ever before. Immersing myself in the study of the environment and the pressing issues we face has given me hope and a renewed sense of purpose. Education should be cherished and protected, as it holds the potential to shape a brighter future for us all.
Conclusion
Returning to university after 20 years has been a profound and life-changing experience. As a mature student, I have embraced the opportunity to expand my knowledge, challenge myself intellectually, and contribute to important conversations about the environment and society. Education is not solely about economic usefulness but about personal growth, fostering creativity, and nurturing a deeper understanding of the world. It is imperative that we value and support education, ensuring it is accessible to all, regardless of background or financial circumstances. Let us cherish the power of education and strive to create a society where learning is celebrated and cherished by all