Getting Old Does Have its Benefits

I am classified as a “non-traditional” student. Just what does that mean anyway? It makes me sound like a rebel of some kind. That is so not me.

I have discovered that a non-traditional student is one who attends college part time, works more than 35 hours a week, has dependents, is a single parent, does not have a high school diploma, or is financially independent.

None of those qualifications fit me. I go to school full time. School is my job. My kids are grown. I am happily married, and I did graduate from high school. I am definitely not financially independent, but I would really like to try that one sometime.

I am a non-traditional student because I am considered old.

                         

I prefer the word “mature”. And that is a fabulous thing because of all the perks that go with it.

Most people on campus are surprised to discover that I am not a teacher at UVU. And teachers get more respect. I do love it when younger students hold the door open for me. Perk.

A couple of months ago my husband and I were out to dinner. When we went to pay the tab, it was much lower than anticipated so I asked the cashier about it. She replied that she had given us our senior citizen discount. I wish I had a picture of her face when I told her that we weren’t senior citizens yet. She offered to put the discount back on our tab, but we politely declined. Another perk.

Usually I am older than the professors I have. Thus, I sometimes allow myself to be a little sassier than I would be comfortable with if they had a few years on me. And I like sassy. Perk again.

I don’t feel old until I look at my body and my kids. How is it possible for me to have thirty-something year old children?

                         

And who is that old woman in the mirror every morning? It is kind of a shock.

A young lady in one of my classes was complaining how old she felt because she just turned thirty. Then she noticed that I had overheard her and she blushed. I just smiled back at her. Awkward. It is all about your point of view, right?

Recently I rode an elevator with a couple that explained they were on campus to attend a lecture. Both of them were 94 years old. They were young at heart and full of life. I told them I want to be like them when I grow up.

Being a “mature” student gives me a unique perspective. I appreciate youth and age. I understand the joys and challenges of both. And I find that both can be as fun as you make them.

                         

But don’t think of me as old. Just think of me as becoming a classic.