College Targets Non-Traditional Students
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowIn an effort to attract more adult learners, Ancilla College in Donaldson is offering a free course to prospective first-time students 21 and older. The “We Believe in You” program will include academic, registration and financial aid advising opportunities. November 4, 2014
News Release
DONALDSON, Ind. – Adults looking for a way to earn a college degree are getting help from Ancilla College. Ancilla is trying to make it easier for adult learners to come and try out college with a free college course for first-time students as part of the “We Believe in You” program.
“In order for people in Northern Indiana to remain economically competitive, they have to learn the skills employers are looking for. In the workforce today you have to learn more to earn more, and supporting adults who want to come back to school is one way Ancilla can help,” said Ancilla Admissions Director Eric Wignall.
Designed for adult learners 21-years and older who have never attended college, the “We Believe in You” course grant allows a student to take a class with up to three credit hours at no cost (free tuition and fees).
Every student in the program will have an academic adviser to assist with every aspect of attending college for the first time, including help with the registration process, filing a financial aid application, choosing education opportunities and more.
“If you get to college you can learn how to get through college and learn the skills needed to move ahead in a career. Ancilla College provides resources for prospective students and makes it easy for anyone who thought about college but didn't start to go back to school and earn a degree,” Wignall said.
Indiana has projected that by 2020, more than 60 percent of jobs in the state will require a college certificate or degree. Presently, only 30 percent of the state's adults have earned a college credential.
The “We Believe in You” course grant was originally created in 1988 by the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ, the religious order that sponsors Ancilla College.
“Over the past several years over 50 people took part in this program. Many of them have gone on to take more classes, taking advantage of the opportunity to restart their education,” Wignall said.
“Taking a college course in writing, communication, or computer technology can jump-start a college degree at any age. There really is no age limit on college. Every adult, no matter your educational background or career interest, can start a college degree with Ancilla. Our small classes and personal learning environment is a great way to 'get back into school' for people who think they can't go back. We welcome any adult to take that first step toward college and receive up to three credits of coursework for free,” Wignall said.
Ancilla classes begin January 12, 2015 at the school's campus near Plymouth. There is no application fee at Ancilla College, and veterans and their families are welcome to take part in this program as well, Wignall said.
For more information on 'We Believe in You,' please contact the Ancilla College Admissions Office at (574) 936-8898.
Source: Ancilla College