And To Continue

This Blog was created as part of this years Journalism Skills unit (University of Lincoln BA(Hons) course). As such it is part of my marked work for the year.

BUT...

I am continuing with this Blog as I find that writing about my experiences as a mature student helps me to make sense of the academic environment that I now inhabit.

Today I had my last seminar of the year. Well worth attending as we received some excellent tips and advice for our last assignment. Only four people turned up but I'm now getting used to the idea that most of my peer group don't turn up to a lecture or  seminar unless they consider it absolutely necessary.

I have recently received an email from one of the academic staff in the Lincoln School of Journalism appealing for students returning for their second or third years to work as "study buddies". To mentor and advise the new intake of students next September. I must admit that I'm very tempted. I remember clearly what it was like during my first few weeks at university. If I hadn't been briefed by my wife, and others, concerning the attitude of the students towards a mature student then I might have taken some of their behaviour personally.

Perhaps what I need to do is create a FAQ/Briefing document for mature students? A crib sheet that can aid the mature student to navigate the Byzantine world of drunken parties, negative attitudes and half empty lecture theatres. Why do this? Well I know of at least one example of cyber bullying that has occurred at Lincoln. It was targeted at a mature student. Why? Because that person wanted to learn, to contribute in seminars and to squeeze the maximum value from their course. A small group of "younger" students didn't like that and so Internet based unpleasantness followed. As far as I know this situation has been remedied, the university authorities were involved and took action, but for it to occur in the first place is very concerning. 

If another mature student were targeted like this then it might make all the difference if they have someone to turn to or a crib sheet with tips on what to do. Being a mature student can be a lonely experience, especially for those who might expect a warmer welcome to academia.