Adult Learner Programs is a tangible expression of Penn State’s commitment to providing comprehensive services for non-traditional undergraduate students. Whether you have been out of school for several years...  or if this is your first semester, we want adult learners to feel comfortable utilizing the campus resources that complement your academic, personal and career goals. We know this is a very exciting time and that it can also be a stressful time too. Balancing life, work and school can be challenging but it’s worth it. So remember, we are here for you and want you to be successful in all of your educational pursuits.

Adult Learner Engagement Survey - This is an opportunity to share your opinion and programming ideas for future Adult Learner events, activities and programs.

Adult Learner Voices Showcase - Take a moment to complete your academic profile to help us understand and showcase the unique background and experiences that Adult Learners contribute to campus life. Your diverse aspirations and experiences will enhance the mosaic that is Penn State. All submissions become a part of the University Park Collection and from time to time, the office of special populations may select various profiles to showcase.

Take a look at our Adult Learner Video Blogs

Meet Chad (2009) who is married with two kids, found time to learn more about his chosen vocation through an internship abroad. Chad has successfully learned how to effectively reach and teach the youth of today and leaders of tomorrow by utilizing his campus resources. As a senior in the College of Education, Chad spent his last semester abroad as a student teacher. Watch as he teaches, but also learns about other cultures and what it feels like to be away from his wife and two children. Aspiring teachers can enrich their experience at Penn State and gather research to share in their classrooms by spending a semester teaching abroad. Click to watch!  

Meet Karen H. a 32 year old (2008) adult learner at Penn State. She can remember her Penn State Pride as early as 14 growing up in Wyoming.  Having lost both parents, she thought college was just a dream. It has been several years in the making but she loves her Penn State experience. Inspired by her freshman seminar class and propelled by her thirst for International Politics, Karen has taken advantage of Education Abroad.  “Riding camels, touching the ancient pyramids, sailing the Nile and embracing the Egyptian people, it was a dream come true and I am changed forever”. Click Here to watch!

Meet Karen Q, (2007) see how this wife and mother of three gets through the daily grind and graduates with honors. “I did it, you CAN too.”
Click to watch!

Outstanding Adult Student Award - download application packet and nomination deadlines (PDF)

National Non-Traditional Student Recognition Week celebrates adult learners: November 1 - 7, 2009. Check out the events! (PDF)

To register for an Adult Learners event Click Here

Support Adult Learners Attending Penn State

Adult Learner Development Fund is used to provide support for non-traditional aged students pursing their undergraduate degree at University Park. Adult Learners are students juggling multiple roles as partners, parents, employees and military veterans.  Your donation can assist with delivering support services for this underrepresented group, fuel their desire to participate in education abroad, major-related internships as they endeavor to meet the challenges associated with their academic goals.

Go to www.givenow.psu.edu and make a gift online to enhance and support the educational goals of adult learners at University Park. Be sure to select "Other" from the drop down list and type "Adult Learner Opportunity Fund (XXTOF)" on the Additional Information line or download this form and mail in your gift today.

Conversation Café

Conversation Café is a monthly program hosted by a Student Affairs Professional. Come and enjoy a focused discussion, refreshments and resources that reflect a variety of adult learner interests.

SAVE the DATE
Fall 2009
          

August 22 -Commuter Connection for NEW ADULT LEARNERS in Heritage Hall-HUB

August 31 - ANGEL Workshop Wagner 116 from 5:00 - 7:00 PM

September 3 - Adult Learner Open House Meet & Greet @ 4:00 –  6:00 PM Boucke 120

September 14 - Power Point 07 Workshop 6:00– 8:00 PM in Wagner 116  

September 15 - A Forum for Student Veterans HUB - 5:30 PM

September 23 - Advising Lunch Roundtable RI, CE, WC - HUB

October 21 - Excel Workshop 07 6:00 - 8:00 PM in Wagner 116

October 23 - GAME NIGHT for Adult Learners @ White Course

November 1 - 7 EVENTS for NonTraditional Student Recognition Week -Print Schedule

November 3 - Research in a Nutshell 5:00 - 6:00 PM in Library  Mann Assembly Room

November 4 - Distinguished Speaker in the Henderson Living Center @ 5:30 PM

November 30 - Photoshop Training 6:00 - 8:00 Wagner 116

December 1- Financial Aid Workshop @ 11:00 -1:00 PM HUB 106