What is Financial Independence

This chapter takes a deeper look at the barriers that exist for nontraditional learners. These students are typically older, employed, have children or other dependents, and have had a long break from the classroom. These traits combine to produce time constraints, lower self-confidence, and prevent nontraditional learners from connecting with their peers, which in turn impedes success. The prevalence of Horn and Carroll's nontraditional characteristics and the ways in which they hinder student success in the classroom are discussed, as well as the challenges faced by first-generation students, students from low-income families, veterans, and non-White learners. Support services for nontraditional learners should be flexible, inclusive, and specific to their unique needs.