How Can a Returning Student Compete in the Job Market?

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The discussion centers on a returning student pursuing a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering at age 26, expressing concerns about job competitiveness upon graduation at 30, especially given a lack of relevant work experience and a background in communications. The student is taking foundational courses in mathematics and chemistry to build a solid academic base, despite these classes not being required for the degree. They seek advice on enhancing their employability during their studies and whether pursuing a master's degree would be beneficial. Responses emphasize that age should not be a concern, as nontraditional students often bring valuable life experience, focus, and diligence to their studies, making them competitive candidates in the job market. Engaging in internships and actively seeking relevant experiences during education are recommended strategies for improving job prospects.
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Hello,

I am seeking advice as I continue my education towards a bacholers degree in Mechanical Engineering. I am a returning student at the "old" age of 26 and since my studies before returning to school were in communications, mostly only electives, humanities, and a few core credits are going towards my ME degree. So I have about 3 1/2 to 4 years left before graduation. It's that long, because as a returning student I haven't actively practiced mathematics for several years, so I am starting with college algebra and taking pre-calc, and pre-chem as well, which are not on the degree's course requirements. It adds time and money, but I want a solid foundation, not just a passing grade.

So, here's my concern and why I posted this here, rather than in the academic section. I am concerned about being 30 when I graduate and being competitive for a job with the younger candidates. I have no applicable job experience, just regular jobs, and in addition I have been a stay-at-home dad for the last couple years, and will probably continue to be for the next year or two. As I approach graduation I plan to take any internships I can to gain valuable experience. So my question is, what things can I do throughout my education, inside or outside of school to make myself a more desireable candidate to employers? And secondly, would it be advised in my situation to continue right through to a masters degree? I suppose some of these concerns may be premature. I'll admit to some of these concerns coming from my first semester back being older than most seniors! However, I figured it wouldn't hurt to ask. Sorry for any errors, my toddler picked off half the keys on the keyboard! Thanks everybody!

-MEStudent
 
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Honestly, I wouldn't stress about your age. If anything, you may find that you are one of the better students due to your 'life experience' contributing to a certain ability to focus.

I have lots of 'nontraditional' students in my class. Almost without exception, they are more diligent, more focused, and more eager simply because they *chose* to go back to school, rather than just go to school because they didn't have any better ideas.
 

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