Many WWIN Star Scholars begin their higher education journeys as nontraditional students – usually defined as those pursuing their college degrees past the ages of 18 to 24. Nationwide, approximately 73% of undergraduate students can be considered nontraditional students, and the number of students over 40 is expected to reach 3.3 million by 2027.* Nontraditional students often have access to fewer resources than their younger peers, and it can be isolating to feel out of sync with youth-centric campus life. As colleges and universities seek to better understand and respond to the needs of nontraditional students, WWIN is ahead of the curve.
WWIN was created to empower each woman to achieve her full potential – and nontraditional students have been a core part of the WWIN community from our founding. This year, our Star Scholars ranged in age from 18 to 56, with an average age of 26 – a typical range for WWIN. Star Scholarships bridge the gap when traditional financial aid is not enough; and WWIN’s programs, including Career Coaching, provide personalized support to help each woman build her skills and confidence.
In addition to financial support and coaching, WWIN provides a sense of community, belonging, and personal encouragement that is especially meaningful to these Star Scholars. Hear from Krystal, a returning student, in her own words:
“I am extremely grateful that I have the opportunity to pursue higher education. I was terrified returning to school after 17 years, questioning if I would really be able to do it both academically and financially. Becoming a WWIN scholar has allowed me to reach higher, knowing that these women will encourage and support me along the way. WWIN has alleviated a great deal of anxiety within me, welcomed me with open arms and is teaching me to believe in this part of myself, through their belief in me. This speaks incredibly to my heart. Sometimes someone believing in you is enough to change the course of your future.”
Krystal, WWIN Star Scholar
Each WWIN Star Scholar shows extraordinary courage, perseverance, and dedication as she pursues her education. With the right support, she succeeds – and she pays it forward, inspiring others and transforming her community.
Will you make a gift today and help a Star Scholar achieve her dream?
*Data from the National Center for Education Statistics.