Mature Students Society

Going back to college is undoubtedly an exciting prospect; but it can also be an intimidating one. Thoughts of taking notes, revising and doing exams might have you throwing the prospectus out  with the junk mail but keep in mind that hundreds of mature students take the plunge every year and not only do they survive; they prosper.

Support is available at every corner; most universities will have a Mature Students Officer and colleges will provide an Access Officer who can assist you with any queries you may have. A recent phenomenon is the growth in popularity of Mature Students Societies which are popping up in educational institutions around the country at an impressive speed.

Mature Students Societies don’t involve sitting around drinking warm milk with Zimmer frames stacked up by the door; so leave that stereotype behind you when you go to sign up. The aim of these organisations is to support, inform and guide those returning to education through the new and unfamiliar environment of third level education. A wide range of activities are included on the agenda; everything from meetings with guest speakers to social nights out are available to members.

Practical advice will be given in the form of revision tips and study groups; the various discussions will provide a welcome forum in which you can voice your opinions or questions; if you’ve been in college for three weeks and can’t work out the library catalogue system you won’t be shunned for seeking help!

Aside from the obvious benefits of this support there are considerable social advantages to joining up. It can be difficult to meet people in college; especially people who aren’t in your course so the Mature Students Society will give you this outlet in which you can interact with others; share your experiences, worries and the all important notes; so if you fit the bill keep an eye out during Freshers Week for the Mature Students Society and make your college experience easier and more enjoyable.