When one thinks of a traditional college, a typical residential student body comes to mind. The traditional campus is a place where students are 18 to 22 years old, full-time undergraduates, and live on campus. However, the student population at NSU is anything but traditional; e.g., the average age of the undergraduates is 26, more than half the students work at least 20 hours per week, and most students commute rather than live on campus. Many returning students are coping with balancing academics and responsibilities such as single parenting, mortgage payments, and other family obligations. Being aware of the demographics of our student population is important and essential for effective advising. On the basis of the issues confronting nontraditional students, and keeping in mind that many of them attend on a part-time basis, the following is suggested:

· Offer extended or evening hours.
· Be accessible by e-mail or phone.
· Offer information concerning campus resources such as:

Nontraditional Student Organizations
Academic assistance programs (see Resources on this website).
Be aware of nontraditional options such as televised courses, credit by examination, and nontraditional degrees (e.g., Bachelor of General Studies or Extra Institutional Credit).