The so-called “typical” college student is changing, as more and more students must work, in order to help offset the costs of their education. Some estimates put the number of working students at 80 percent. While most of those students are working part time, the need to work creates some challenges in getting the classes students need for their degrees. Colleges are responding to their needs by offering more online classes, but also more night classes.
So if you’re considering taking night classes, what are the advantages and disadvantages?
Flexibility: Night classes tend to meet once a week, for longer periods – say 2.5 hours on average. While that can be a bit of a challenge to sit through, you get your class time in one whack and are free to work the rest of the week. There are certainly some disadvantages to night school that offset the advantage of flexible schedule, such as the fact you’re in for a long day. This can really add to your stress level.
Night-owl syndrome: During our college years, many of us are night owls, staying up late for social events and studying in our rentals in Athens Ohio. If you’re in that mode, you may find it easy to adapt to going to school in the evening. On the other hand, a long day that concludes with a class may engender wandering attention (lack of focus) and general tiredness.
Meet different types of students: Night students are often more mature (i.e., older) than traditional students, and may have families and even full-time jobs. So you’re likely to meet some very different types of people than in daytime classes. This can be rewarding as you have the benefit of their experience and insight during class discussions. But beware: older students often skew the grading curve, because they tend to be more focused and serious about their studies and getting good grades. Socially speaking, the major disadvantage of being a night student is that you’ll be pretty much out of things as far as the social life of your school, in that most traditional activities are centered around daytime attendance.
Despite some disadvantages, taking an occasional night class won’t kill you, and sometimes may be your best option for progressing along with your degree plan. Two other options besides night classes include online and or weekend classes.