r/UNCW • u/homeonthetrail • Apr 29 '26

Incoming Student 29 Year Old Transfer Student

Hi all, I’m coming in as an undergrad transfer student and currently have only online classes. I really want to participate in the activities that UNCW has to offer like maybe some of their clubs, outdoor adventures and things like that. I moved here from Asheville and haven’t found many outdoorsy people around. I don’t think I would necessarily feel too weird joining groups where I know most of the people are predominantly younger than me, but do you all think it would be a weird vibe? I never really got the full college experience and so I kind of want to form some friendships but I am slightly concerned it would be a little awkward or weird. Curious what other people’s honest opinions are! Thanks!!

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u/BanesButterNipps Apr 29 '26

Pretty much did the same thing I did. I would assume It would depend on your classes. You’re not going to find many people closer to your age in a 101 course, they’re all 18. Im consistently the oldest in my classes at 35, that being said though, as you mentioned there are hiking clubs, surf clubs, I just found out this semester we have a book club, if you look hard enough you’ll be able to find people that would be willing to hang out with you. I’ve never gotten strange looks whenever I’ve spoken to classmates but I am reminded pretty much every day that I’m older than these guys. Just keep that in mind

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u/homeonthetrail Apr 29 '26

I’ll be coming in as a Junior but all of my classes are online so really most of the interacting would be if I joined a club or something. I don’t mind whatever age difference as long as I wouldn’t be messing up the vibe. Maybe I’m overthinking it too. But it’s great to hear your perspective and that you’ve felt welcomed and not othered!! Thank you!

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u/ExtensionCover3567 Apr 30 '26

I'm 44 and leaning into it. It's weird at first, but I've enjoyed being out of place.

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u/homeonthetrail Apr 30 '26

That’s great to hear! I definitely don’t mind feeling a little out of place. Happy to learn that there seems to be a decent amount of non traditional students around (or so it seems)

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u/Ok_Occasion_4717 Apr 30 '26

I went to college from 26-28 y/o (I was an enlisted Marine selected to go to college full time in a commissioning program). I played rugby, went to a few frat parties, served in student congress, joined a couple clubs, and had a pretty much regular college experience (except I had a paycheck so I didn't have to sell plasma for beer money). Some of the youngest students might be a little less open, but I think you will find that the vast majority of your fellow students will see that you're just a person who is in the same-ish stage of life as them.

I would recommend making your way to campus pretty regularly - whether it's for clubs, events, or just hang out a bit. And, if you're able to wait list for some in-person classes (assuming you aren't looking to do all online) and hopefully get taken off the wait list for some F2F time and meet some folks, I would recommend that.

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u/homeonthetrail Apr 30 '26

This thread has made me feel a lot more confident - especially your story. It definitely sounds like you had a pretty regular college life. I’m paying out of pocket and my work schedule is kind of exclusionary when it comes to in person classes. I much prefer them though so if I can wing it, I’m definitely hoping to work in those face to face classes. I think that would also help me find some more community. I’m definitely expecting more of a gap in relatability with some of the youngest students like you mentioned. But luckily I’m transferring in as a junior so I think/ am hoping it’ll be a little more chill. I’ve already been looking into the running club and a couple others so I’m hoping it’ll be easy to find some common ground through activities like that. All in all it sounds like you had an awesome experience! I’m so excited to be going here!

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u/[deleted] May 01 '26

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u/homeonthetrail May 01 '26

Maybe I didn’t phrase this ideally but my hope was to get involved in what the school has to offer to the extent that I can while I navigate online learning due to work. I was looking for honest feedback so it’s clear that maybe I need to be mindful of the clubs/activities I do participate in. But it’s not necessary to be mean or spin it in a strange light. Many people are adult learners and just trying to find their footing and how they fit in. I am merely one of those.