Will i still study ... "When i'm sixty-four"? University experiences of mature students: challenges and obstacles

Abstract

In 2006, the introduction of the Bologna Process in Portuguese Universities brought significant changes in the academic world, opening new doors to adult students in order to (re) join (again) in Higher Education. Returning’s to school has become, a difficult task due to a number of obstacles and difficulties that exist in the academic career (eg, reconciling family and professional lives, the understanding of specific programs contents, etc.). In this article we intend to explore the academic experiences of mature students when they decide to enter in Higher Education. What are main motivations and barriers during the academic career? What are the relationships established between teachers and other traditional students? What are the expectations for the future?