Sharon Goldberg, 54, on being a nontraditional student.
Daily Lobo: What is your major at UNM?
Sharon Goldberg: I am in the BUS program with disciplines in political science and African American studies.
DL: What made you decide to come to UNM?
SG: I retired from the phone company. I was intrinsically involved in the union - that's where my political science interest comes from. I didn't have the opportunity to go to college when I was younger. Education gives me a broader range of employment opportunities.
DL: Do you have kids? If so, what do they think about you attending school?
Get content from The Daily Lobo delivered to your inbox
SG: Yes, one son, Christopher. He is a graduate of UNM and played football here. He is totally supportive and proud of his mom going to college.
DL: Are you involved with any campus activities?
SG: I'm involved in the Association of Non-Traditional Students. I'm the newly elected secretary for the organization.
DL: Do you think it's harder or easier to be an older student at UNM?
SG: Both - easier because I have some life experience behind me, and I want to be here so that makes it easier. Harder because you must be disciplined enough to get your homework done for your classes.
DL: Are you treated differently at UNM by staff, administration or other students because you are an older student?
SG: I don't feel that I'm treated differently at all. The professors have all the same expectations from me as they do of other students, and I have the same expectations of them.
DL: Do you feel like you get the full UNM experience like traditional students do with dorms or campus activities?
SG: Probably not. Most people my age are working and can't afford the time to participate in many activities on campus. I'm retired, so I'm afforded the time to work for Ants.
DL: Are you excited about coming back to school in the fall?
SG: Yes. I'm so excited. My graduation is finally within reach.
- Katy Knapp
