[Intourist]

I'm thinking of doing combined Russian history and language. Any experiences to share on various university courses, foreign trips, attitudes towards and help for those who are older, heading for 30 and over?

[Owly]

I'm doing an MFL degree. I've got no info on Russian, as German is my major, but if there are any specific queries you have, either post here, or PM me. IMO, lecturers and students have a positive attitude towards mature students and welcome their input, at least that's what happens where I study.

[Intourist]

Been looking at MFL. Although, are you doing it with a specific direction in mind, such as to become an interpreter/translator for business or some other area? What about access to a degree course. Is there another route other than A Levels or an equivalent formal acknowledgement of competency, for time is of the essence. I suppose I'd have to be a really good bullsh*tter or have a stand out life experience to impress someone into granting admission without relevant quals. As for lengthy foreign study trips, what is your experience of such a thing for the older person, if you've been on one?

[negras]

2 people i did the access course with got admitted to the University of Bristol and are doing history so it's possible

[Owly]

I'm doing my degree because I'm looking at a career in teaching and have a real passion for languages. As to whether a university would accept you without A Levels, it depends on the admissions tutor. If you're fluent enough, I don't see why you shouldn't study at degree level. When I applied to university, as part of the interview process, I had to chat with one of the tutors in German for 15 minutes, but it didn't feel at all stressful. I can't comment on lengthy study trips as I haven't done one yet

Is there any particular career or university you have in mind?

[Intourist]

Originally Posted by Owly

I had to chat with one of the tutors in German for 15 minutes, but it didn't feel at all stressful.

Is there any particular career or university you have in mind?

That sounds scary.

I'm not sure. Probably somewhere in the north of England.

[Owly]

I was terrified initially, but the interviewers at both universities I applied to made the interview as relaxing as possible. Good luck with whatever you choose and aim as high as you can. That sounds cheesy, but I did and I'm coping ok...so far

[Intourist]

Thanks. Just got an aversion to being sat in a room full of 18-year olds.

[Owly]

It's unavoidable at university. Some of those 18-year old might surprise you. The younger ones, i.e. everyone else at university seem really mature and focused. Wish I'd been like that at 18...

[Intourist]

I guess it depends on the place, and the course.