On paper the University states that it is dedicated to the advancement of learning and the search for truth, and to the sharing of this knowledge through education for a diverse community. Part of that diversity includes nontraditional students. These students add tremendous value to the University community through their solid sense of self and the life experiences they share.

It is no secret that nontraditional students, specifically students who are older than average, face challenges typical students seldom think about. Whether it is balancing the schoolwork with their already well-established lives or trying to work with uninterested younger classmates, these students have a harder time at the University. Nevertheless, this is one instance where the University takes some burden off the student.

A little-known program called the Senior Citizen Education Program makes it a little easier financially to attend the U. If you are 62 or older and a Minnesota resident, you have the ability to audit courses free of charge or take courses for credit at $10 per credit whenever space is available after the first day of class. Under this plan, you are not eligible to pay the Student Services Fee, but must pay any required laboratory or materials fees. Registration for the Senior Citizen Education Program is on the second day of the term. If you are interested, attend the first day of class to see if space is available and receive information about class procedures. Senior citizens who are registering for 8000-level classes need permission from the department of instruction.

Today there are a little more than 2,000 nontraditional students attending the University. Students should remember that they could learn a great deal from nontraditional students. The University community would do well to promote the Senior Citizen Education Program. If you know someone who is older than average who would like to take advantage of what the University has to offer, let him or her know about the Senior Citizen Education Program.