I’m just putting in the bare minimum for my degree as a non-traditional student. At 28, I’ve been taking classes part-time on and off since I was 21, mostly dropping out several times. After working various office jobs, I came to the realization that advancing in my career would require a college degree. I’m fortunate to be able to attend school full-time for the next year and a half while I finish my undergraduate degree in a humanities field.
However, I find myself disengaged with the coursework. I hardly do any of the readings, and while my major is somewhat interesting, I don’t feel any real passion for it. I look up answers for my at-home quizzes and have managed to maintain decent grades. Sometimes I feel guilty when I see clubs and organizations on campus, as I think I should be more involved. I also feel like I’m not really learning anything—I haven’t paid attention in any of my core major classes since transferring this semester after earning an associate’s in a different field.
I know some people might argue that I’m wasting my money, but my primary goal is just to get my degree. I’m feeling a bit disinterested and down, making it hard for me to engage more actively. Ultimately, I just want to earn my diploma and get back into the workforce.
Is there anyone else out there who feels the same way?
It’s completely understandable to feel this way, especially as a non-traditional student who has experienced a variety of challenges along your academic journey. Many people find themselves attending classes more out of necessity than passion, especially when they have practical goals in mind like advancing their career.
It’s great that you recognize the importance of a degree for your career progression. However, feeling disengaged can be tough, and it’s valid to question whether you’re getting what you need out of the experience. One thing to consider is that your time in school could be a valuable opportunity to explore new interests or discover what you truly enjoy, even if your major isn’t grabbing your attention right now.
If you can, try to engage with at least one aspect of your classes that you find remotely interesting or connect with a professor during office hours. This could open up new perspectives and make the experience feel more rewarding. Additionally, considering smaller clubs or study groups might be less overwhelming than professional organizations, and you might find people with similar experiences who can relate to how you’re feeling.
Finally, it’s okay to prioritize your well-being. If you’re feeling depressed, seeking support from mental health services on campus or talking to someone about it can make a significant difference. Just graduating and re-entering the workforce is a valid goal, but finding small ways to make the process more enriching could help you feel more fulfilled in the long run. You’re not alone in feeling this way, and it’s okay to explore your options while you work toward that diploma.