Current GVSU Adult Learners
Alondra Soto
What inspired you to begin or return to school, and how did
you decide to pursue your current major/program or degree?
I have always known I've wanted to be a physician, but
unfortunately due to life circumstances I was unable to have the
typical college experience. Now that I am back in school, I have
chosen Biomedical Sciences as my major because it consists of all of
the pre-requisites for medical school while also being able to take
some higher-level elective science courses.
What challenges have you faced as an adult learner, and how
have you overcome (or working on overcoming) them?
One of the challenges I've faced as an adult learner is not
comparing myself to others because everyone's path and timing is
different. For a long time, I was sad because I felt like the clock
was ticking. I felt like I was running out of time. Seeing the people
I graduated high school with and even younger peers already having
4-year degrees was difficult. While I was happy for them and excited
to see where they'd go next, I was also sad and beating myself down
for not having the same privileges and support as others who had a
more traditional college experience.
Knowledge has no time limit, and there is no cap to anyone's
potential. Whether if it's bad life circumstances, the timing isn't
right, or you need a break, you can still learn. Getting yourself in
the right place even if it takes years will allow you to succeed even
further in the long run.
How has balancing outside commitments such as work and family
impacted your studies, and what strategies have helped you succeed?
Managing a full-time college schedule while managing a medical
clinic full-time is not easy. Coming home after work to do laundry or
clean and then do homework or take an exam can be difficult, but it
takes time management and discipline. Having a running to-do list and
staying organized always helps. Read the syllabus! Knowing how much my
assignments and exams are weighted is also helpful because it gives me
the bigger picture if worst comes to worst.
What has been the most rewarding part of your educational
journey so far?
The most rewarding part of my journey is being able to learn what
I've always been fascinated by and seeing my hard work come to fruition.
What advice would you give to other adults considering going
back to school but feeling uncertain or hesitant?
Everyone has a different path, and everyone's timing is not the
same. That does not make you behind or lesser than somebody else.
Never compare yourself to others. Focus on trying to be a better
version of yourself instead.
Another piece of advice is do not be afraid to use your
resources. Whether that be your advisor, tutoring and drop-in
services, or seeking accommodations for yourself, there is a way
everyone can succeed in school.
Interest Area(s)
Biomedical Sciences
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