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Non-school leavers typically have very high expectations, both of the university experience and of themselves.
For a number of reasons, many NSL students are very keen to get high marks. Some have career plans that hinge on successful study, or are worried about letting down family, colleagues and, importantly, themselves. Others may have made sacrifices to return to uni.
To some extent these expectations are fulfilled: on average, non-school leavers are sucessful students. However, the downside of this enthusiasm is that non-school leavers often put too much pressure on themselves to do well. It's important to be realistic about what is expected of you, what you expect of yourself and what is possible. It's important to keep things in perspective.
It's important to have reasonable expectations, especially while you are adjusting to university study. Initially you may feel frustrated or confused by what feels like a lack of specific direction, limited contact with academic staff and unfamilar terminology. At the same time you may be struggling with undeveloped academic skills, and learning about new discipline areas. Such transition issues can be intensified if you expect too much of yourself during this important learning period.
Many non-school leavers see achieving high marks as a sign that their efforts and sacrifices have been worthwhile. But it's important to remember that standards at uni are high, and grades are often pitched lower than high school or TAFE grades. Relatively few students receive Distinction-level grades for their work.
Don't compare
Don't compare yourself with others and don't judge your progress solely
on the basis of marks. Learn to value your own growth and achievements.
Don't compare your progress or your study practices with other students in the belief that you ‘should' be doing what they do. Find other ways of reflecting on your own learning. For most students, successfully completing a course, regardless of the grade, is a great achievement.
Allow yourself time to settle into study
You may lack academic skills,
especially if you haven't studied for many years. But remember, academic
skills are not innate—they can be learned or refreshed. These skills
will also need to improve as you progress: the skills expected of a second
year student are different from those of a first year.
Aim for reasonable grades and results
Don't try to write the perfect essay or
expect stellar results for every single assignment. While working hard
to achieve your goals is great, being a perfectionist and having unachievable
goals will very quickly demoralise you, quench your sense of excitement
and slow your learning process. Remember that a University degree course
is a marathon, not a sprint, and that with application you will improve
as you move through the different stages of your degree.