Current GVSU Adult Learners
Michael Presson
What inspired you to begin or return to school, and how did
you decide to pursue your current major/program or degree?
After spending several years in a demanding field with long hours
and limited flexibility, I realized I needed to make a change that
would allow for a healthier work/life balance. I've always had a
strong interest in problem-solving and technology, so I made the
decision to return to school to pursue a degree in Computer Science.
This field not only aligns with my strengths and interests but also
offers diverse career opportunities with greater potential for
flexibility and long-term growth. Returning to school was a deliberate
step toward building a more sustainable and fulfilling career.
What challenges have you faced as an adult learner, and how
have you overcome (or working on overcoming) them?
One of the biggest challenges I faced as an adult learner was the
mental hurdle of returning to school after being away for so long. I
often felt rushed or behind because I was older than many of my peers,
and I struggled with thoughts like, "Is it too late?". What
helped me overcome that mindset was a simple but powerful realization:
the time is going to pass either way, so I might as well spend it
working toward something meaningful. That shift in perspective allowed
me to let go of the pressure and focus on making steady progress
toward my goals.
How has balancing outside commitments such as work and family
impacted your studies, and what strategies have helped you succeed?
Balancing school with outside commitments like work and family
has definitely been a challenge. There are times when it feels like
there's not enough time in the day to give everything the attention it
deserves. What's helped me stay grounded is always reminding myself
why I returned to school in the first place, to build a career that
would ultimately give me more quality time with my family. I try not
to lose sight of that goal. One key strategy that's helped me manage
everything is setting aside time each week to plan and prioritize.
I've learned to be practical about how long assignments, projects, or
studying will realistically take, and I adjust my schedule
accordingly. That kind of honest time management has made a big
difference in staying on track.
What has been the most rewarding part of your educational
journey so far?
One of the most rewarding parts of returning to school has been
the opportunity to collaborate with peers who are 10 to 15 years
younger than me. It's been both refreshing and eye-opening to engage
with how younger generations think, learn, and approach
problem-solving. What's been especially encouraging is realizing how
little the age gap actually impacts our ability to work together.
These experiences have reminded me that learning is a shared journey,
and that diverse perspectives, regardless of age, can lead to more
creative and effective collaboration.
What advice would you give to other adults considering going
back to school but feeling uncertain or hesitant?
My advice to other adults considering going back to school is
this: you're probably more ready than you think. Unlike the first time
around, you've likely had time to reflect on your goals, your
strengths, and what you truly want to get out of your education. That
clarity can make all the difference. It's also important to remember
that time will pass either way, so if going back to school is
something you've been thinking about, it's worth exploring. Even if
you start with just one course, you'll gain valuable insight into
whether the timing is right and whether the path feels like a good
fit. Don't let hesitation hold you back from something that could open
new doors.
Interest Area(s)
Computer Science
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