Information and resources for mature students and graduates

Your decision to pursue higher education as a mature student, whether after a gap year, a few years working, or other life experiences, means that you likely possess a range of transferable skills and perspectives. Consider the potential advantages you bring, which could be: 

• Skills from part-time jobs or casual work: Teamwork, customer service, time management, responsibility.
• Skills from travel or personal projects: Problem-solving, adaptability, independence, initiative.
• Skills from caring responsibilities: Organisation, empathy, patience, multitasking.
• Skills from volunteering or community involvement: Communication, teamwork, leadership, commitment.
• Confidence and ambition to pursue higher education: Choosing to enter university after a break demonstrates self-awareness, a desire for learning, and the courage to pursue your goals, regardless of the "traditional" timeline.
• A clearer sense of purpose: Mature students often have a more defined understanding of their interests and career aspirations, which can translate to greater focus and commitment during their studies and in their future careers.
   

For more information

To help you articulate your unique strengths and navigate your career path effectively, here are some potentially useful resources:

• Developing a lifelong learning mindset: This resource from Barclays highlights the importance of continuous learning, which is particularly relevant for mature students who have already demonstrated a commitment to ongoing development by returning to education.
• PUSH: PUSH is a non-profit organisation dedicated to helping students from diverse backgrounds make informed career choices.
• Careershifters: This resource's focus on identifying transferable skills and exploring new directions can be valuable for any mature student considering their options after graduation.
• getEmployable: This platform offers a test to assess your employability and identify areas for improvement. This can be a useful tool for all students, including mature students who may be entering the graduate job market with diverse backgrounds.