Adult Phase Blog

D5.1 Adult Phase Blog and Discussion
Challenges
I started college as an adult which created many challenges for me. I was a single mother raising two teenage daughters. I worked during the day and went to school at night. First, I had the fear of not succeeding. After I completed a few courses and passed, I started to relax and enjoy what was learning. I found my biggest challenge was having time for the required assignments and coursework, my job demands and spending time with my children.
Joys
I think one of the joys of being a learner at my age was teaching myself how to learn. When I went to high school we were not taught how to study, prepare for tests or conduct research. I remember lots of worksheets. I have become a critical thinker, problem solver and a lifelong learner. I enjoy the thought of learning new things. I feel I have accomplished a lot as a student. I have finished many degrees and have bright plans for the future.
Hopes
As an adult learner, I hope that my love of education encourages my children and grandchildren to follow in my footsteps and become lifelong learners. My daughters know that education is important and both are continuing their education. I only hope they do not stop and continue on to become adult learners.
Advice
My advice is there is so much to learn, never think that's it! Never think you cannot do it, or complete it, just take a breath and keep going. Learners coming into this decade have so many more skills, especially in technology; use it to your advantage to enhance your learning; become that lifelong learner.