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Hybrid Boomers Hit the Books

But what’s driving this trend, and what implications does it have for education and society?

Why are older adults Returning to School?

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Here’s a few compelling factors that drive this older demographic back to school:

Personal Fulfillment – Life, for many, is no longer just about winding down after Retirement. It’s about exploration, passion, and self-discovery. For many Boomers, this means studying subjects we always had an interest in but never had the opportunity to pursue.  For those of us still in the workforce, specifically Hybrid Boomers, this is an opportunity to learn with the younger generations.  Interacting with them offers fresh perspectives and potential collaborations or job opportunities. The knowledge and skills gained can be applied in various life scenarios.

Economic Reasons – The economic downturns over the past decades have made it necessary for Boomers to upskill or reskill to remain competitive.  If we are going to remain a part of future ready talent, it is critical that we develop the right skills to compete in the workplace of the future.   Businesses are changing, so we must figure out how to get ourselves ready .  Fifty to 60 % of getting ready is our responsibility. So, Hybrid Boomers hit the books! Besides, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning are coming.  We must be careful that they don’t replace us in the workforce before we are ready to go!

Here’s my favorite –

Staying Engaged – The structure and social interactions, as well as mental stimulation provided by academic settings can be incredibly appealing to those of us looking to stay mentally and socially active.  After a couple of failed attempts to move into the next level of management, I decided to take a break from applying for jobs to focus on strengthening my academic credentials.  With half of my college credits from an Associates Degree, I entered a Bachelor’s degree program in 2018 at the age of 56.  Excited that I had just learned the new stuff that the younger generation was receiving, I decided to continue in a Master’s program.  I will graduate in September 2023, one month from my 60th birthday.

Challenges on the Path of Learning

A full-time job, family, and life in general for an older adult will bring challenges on the path of learning.   The journey back to school is rewarding, but it’s not without hurdles.  Consider the following:

Technological Adaptation –  From digital assignments and online platforms to new software tools, navigating the digital-first landscape of modern education can be daunting for those who didn’t grow up tech-native.

Financial Strains – Tuition fees and other related costs can be a barrier, especially if you are on a fixed or limited income.  However, there are colleges in most states that offer reduced tuition or a full ride to seniors returning to school.  Check with your local institutions of higher learning.

Navigating Age Dynamics – Being significantly older than most of our peers can sometimes make it challenging to form study groups, participate in discussions, or relate to younger classmates.  I typically experienced older adult learners in the online degree programs, but there are many others who prefer to attend on campus.

The Bright Side: Benefits Galore

Support for Adult Learners

To Sum It Up

The trend of Baby Boomers returning to school underscores a broader societal shift in our understanding of age, learning, and personal Growth. It challenges the traditional education and career timelines, emphasizing that learning is a lifelong journey, irrespective of age. As Bob Dylan rightly put it, “Ah, but I was so much older then, I’m younger than that now.” In today’s dynamic world, the Baby Boomers heading back to school are indeed a testament to the timeless spirit of learning.  The personal sense of accomplishment and fulfillment that comes with finishing something that I started makes Hybrid Boomers hit the books a worthwhile thing.

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The post Hybrid Boomers Hit the Books appeared first on Hybrid Boomer.

A Hybrid Boomer is an individual born between 1946 and 1964 who is still in the workforce but working from home or a remote location. We are only required to report into a company facility when it is necessary to collaborate in person or for in-person company meetings. We transitioned into this type
of work mode during the COVID 19 Pandemic. In defining a new normal and the future of work our companies have decided to allow us to make this a permanent way to work.

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