Facing the unfamiliar can be daunting and uncomfortable, yet, within the realm of learning, this discomfort is a sign of growth. Stepping into a classroom with the mindset that you already know all there is to know begs the question: why are you there at all? The most impactful teachers are those who can admit their gaps in knowledge and return to their students with researched answers and newfound understanding.
On a more personal note, I’ve discovered that returning to school at an older age is not just beneficial, it’s exhilarating. Sure, there are moments when I feel out of place among younger students, but the sense of fun I feel when wrapping my head around a concept that once seemed alien is unmatched. At 45, stepping into the IT world might seem like something impossible, but one thing I’ve got down pat is my ability to learn—and learn fast.
This brings me to a key perk of being a ‘mature’ student: I’ve got a good grasp on how my brain works and the most effective ways, for me, to absorb information. For example, pouring over the same textbook passages for hours on end? Not gonna cut it. But give me that textbook in audiobook format or a text-to-speech option, and I can guarantee nearly perfect recall.
Another strategy that’s worked wonders for me is seeking out YouTubers who can break down complex ideas in a way that just clicks. The beauty of YouTube is its dual role as a learning platform and a search engine, allowing you to cherry-pick teachers who resonate with your learning style.
And here’s a quirky tip: turn tricky concepts into songs. It might sound odd, but it genuinely helps with retention. Granted, the IT world hasn’t seen much of its curriculum set to music, so if any content creators are out there brainstorming ideas, consider this a golden opportunity.
So, to anyone hesitating at the edge of their comfort zone, wondering if it’s too late or too difficult to learn something new: take the leap. You might just find yourself falling in love with the process of learning, just as I did.
