For adult learners

Welcome back to learning: Why adult learners thrive here at Mr. Robertson's Corner blog

At Mr. Robertson’s Corner, our roots are in K‑12 and early collegiate support - but the site offers real value for adult learners, too. Whether you're reskilling, earning a degree later in life, feeding a lifelong passion, and/or simply looking to become a stronger teacher and tutor for your own children as they complete their homework, this blog equips you with the clarity, perspective, and resources you need to succeed.

What adult learners gain here

• Deep, approachable insights into history, philosophy, finance, critical thinking, career paths, and more - valuable whether you're studying formally or self‑educating.
• Relatable reflections and storytelling that connect academic content to real-life events, thoughtful viewpoints, and meaningful application.
• Strategy-packed guidance: test prep tips, research paper ideas, financial literacy advice - framed not for yesterday’s high schooler, but for mature learners juggling multiple priorities.
• Career and adult-education insights, including advice on transitioning into trades, entrepreneurship, technical careers, or returning to college later in life.

How to make Mr. Robertson's Corner work for you as an adult learner

• Pick a relevant topic - from history subjects to business planning to test strategy.
• Read with intention, connecting stories and lessons to your personal or professional goals.
• Apply practical takeaways: Many posts include actionable insights or research paper templates.
• Return for more - the blog publishes regularly, offering fresh ideas and reflections.

Benefit	What it means for you
Self-paced learning	Great if you're studying on nights or weekends. Engage only when it fits your schedule.
Bridging academics and real life	Blog posts often trace broad themes down to everyday relevance.
In-depth over fluff	No filler - every piece is grounded in substance and understanding.
Free of charge	All content is openly available, no paywalls or subscriptions.

Sample tools and posts adult learners will appreciate

• Test‑taking strategy guides - ideal for standardized exam prep or brushing up analytical skills.
• Career‑focused essays exploring trades, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship.
• History and philosophy deep dives, like the featured biography of Myles Keogh or insights on international relations.

Ready to dive in?

Join hundreds of thousands of readers of all ages - students, teachers, parents, and adult learners - who explore ideas, sharpen skills, and re‑ignite curiosity here. Whether you're taking up a new path or enhancing what you already know, Mr. Robertson’s Corner is your intellectual launchpad.

Start here:

• Explore the blog archive and Labels on the left-hand side of the blog for your subjects of interest
• Bookmark test prep or career resources
• Come back weekly for new reflections and tools

Mr. Robertson's Corner blog for all things adult education. Your next chapter starts here.

What is adult education?

Adult education and lifelong learning in the United States: Purpose, challenges, and promise

What is adult education?

Adult education is any formal or informal learning undertaken by adults beyond the traditional school age. It includes a broad range of instructional services, from basic literacy and high school equivalency programs to workforce training, college preparation, language learning, and personal enrichment courses. At its core, adult education aims to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in their personal lives, in the workplace, and as citizens in a democratic society.

Lifelong learning, a related but broader concept, refers to the continuous pursuit of knowledge for personal or professional reasons throughout one’s life. While adult education typically involves structured programs or classes, lifelong learning includes informal avenues such as online tutorials, workplace mentoring, community lectures, and/or networking opportunities.

Why adult education matters

In a rapidly evolving economy and increasingly digital society, the ability to adapt, upskill, and remain engaged intellectually is not just beneficial - it’s essential. Millions of adults in the United States lack basic literacy or numeracy skills, a high school diploma, or digital literacy. Others seek new careers in response to layoffs, automation, or personal growth. Adult education provides the foundation to meet these needs, making it a pillar of workforce development, civic participation, and social mobility.

Key challenges and considerations regarding adult education

Despite its importance, adult education in the U.S. faces persistent challenges:

• Access and equity: Many adults who would benefit most from education programs - such as low-income workers, immigrants, people with disabilities, and those in rural areas - face barriers to access. These may include limited transportation, lack of childcare, inflexible work schedules, or insufficient Internet access.
• Funding and policy support: Adult education is chronically underfunded at both federal and state levels. Programs often rely on patchwork funding from public sources, nonprofits, and grants. The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) governs much of the federal support, but its resources fall short of meeting demand.
• Retention and persistence: Adult learners juggle multiple responsibilities - jobs, families, health - which can make consistent attendance and long-term commitment difficult. Programs must be flexible, supportive, and responsive to keep learners engaged.
• Recognition and credentialing: Many adult learners seek education that leads to tangible outcomes, such as a certification, diploma, or job. Programs must align closely with industry needs and provide stackable credentials that lead to meaningful employment.
• Digital literacy and access: As education shifts online, digital access and skills have become critical. Yet millions of adults lack broadband access or struggle with basic computer use, creating a new layer of exclusion.
• Stigma and motivation: There can be a stigma around returning to school as an adult, especially for those with negative past educational experiences. Overcoming these perceptions and encouraging lifelong learning requires a culture shift and personalized outreach.

Types of adult education programs

The field of adult education is diverse, spanning both public and private sectors. Examples include:

• Adult Basic Education (ABE): Designed for adults who need to improve reading, writing, and math skills to function effectively in society and the workplace.
• High School Equivalency (HSE) programs: Help adults earn a GED or other equivalency credential, a key gateway to better jobs and further education.
• English as a Second Language (ESL): Critical for immigrants and refugees, ESL programs help learners acquire the language skills needed for employment, community participation, and civic engagement.
• Workforce development and vocational training: Offered by community colleges, technical schools, and workforce boards, these programs train adults for in-demand careers in fields like healthcare, IT, construction, and manufacturing.
• Community education and personal enrichment: Offered through local school districts, libraries, nonprofits, and universities, these classes cover a wide range of topics, from art and fitness to financial literacy and parenting skills.
• Corrections education: Provides inmates with literacy, vocational training, and high school equivalency preparation, aiming to reduce recidivism and support reintegration.
• Online and distance learning: Platforms like Coursera, edX, and community college online programs have opened up new pathways for adult learners to pursue formal education and skill development remotely and flexibly.

Looking ahead

The demand for adult education will only grow in the coming decades. Technological disruption, demographic shifts, and longer working lives mean Americans will need to keep learning well beyond their twenties. But to realize the full potential of adult education, we must address structural inequities, expand access to affordable learning, and invest in systems that recognize diverse learning paths and outcomes.

Policymakers, educators, employers, entrepreneurs, and communities must collaborate to create a lifelong learning ecosystem that is inclusive, adaptive, and forward-looking. Adult education is not a remedial service for those who missed out - it's a strategic investment in the country's economic strength, civic health, and human potential.

How to help your child love learning

Image via Pexels

Keeping Wonder Alive: How to Help Your Child Fall in Love With Learning for Life

Every child is born curious. You’ve seen it in their wide-eyed questions, in the way they touch everything, ask “why” a dozen times in a minute, and light up when they discover something new. But somewhere along the way, that excitement can fade - especially if learning begins to feel like a chore rather than an adventure. The good news is that you, as a parent, can keep the spark alive. When your home nurtures curiosity, when you show that you’re curious too, and when learning feels joyful rather than obligatory, you’re building the kind of lifelong learner who doesn’t just survive in the world - they thrive in it.

Read Early, Read Often, and Let Them Take the Lead

Start reading to your child before they can talk. Make it part of your daily rhythm, like brushing teeth or bedtime hugs. As they grow, make trips to the library a regular outing - let them wander the stacks and choose books that intrigue them, even if they seem “above” or “below” their reading level. Encourage them to read alone, but also keep reading together. Shared reading isn’t just for toddlers - it’s a gateway to deeper conversations, better comprehension, and a richer emotional bond.

Create a Home Where Learning Lives

Think of your home not just as a place to eat and sleep, but as a living, breathing laboratory of ideas. Fill your shelves with books of every kind, from fairy tales to encyclopedias. Keep magnifying glasses, maps, puzzles, art supplies, and building blocks within easy reach. This isn’t about spending money on high-end educational toys; it’s about making space for wonder. A cardboard box can be a rocket ship, a painting studio, or the foundation of an engineering experiment - it all depends on the invitation you create.

Set an Example by Going Back to School

Sometimes, the most powerful way to keep your child’s love of learning alive is to show them that it never ends. If you’ve always wanted to finish your degree or start a new one, do it - and let them see you doing it. Online degree programs make it easier than ever to juggle work, parenting, and studying from home. This might help you grow in ways you hadn’t imagined, especially if you pursue something like a psychology degree, where you explore the cognitive and emotional patterns behind behavior and learn how to support others. Whether your goal is personal growth, career change, or simply showing your child that learning never stops, your example will echo louder than any words.

Let Them Explore a Universe of Ideas

Don’t worry if your child’s interests seem all over the place. Today it’s dinosaurs, tomorrow it’s outer space, next week it might be fashion design. Let that exploration happen. Watch documentaries, listen to podcasts for kids, and bring in magazines or websites that cover a broad array of topics. The goal isn’t to lock in a career path by age ten - it’s to help them learn how to learn, and discover what lights them up inside. That’s the kind of compass they’ll follow long after you stop packing their lunch.

Turn Learning Into Play, and Play Into Learning

Some of the richest learning happens when it doesn’t feel like “learning” at all. Simple science experiments in the kitchen, treasure hunts based on geography facts, or math games that sneak arithmetic into family game night - these are the kinds of experiences that stick. Embrace educational apps and websites, but balance screen time with hands-on fun. Learning doesn’t have to mean sitting at a desk; it can look like building a city out of LEGOs or designing a new species of bug from pipe cleaners and buttons.

Follow Their Passions and Let Them Lead

When your child becomes obsessed with something, lean into it. If they want to learn everything about sharks, set up a shark-themed week and let them teach you. If they love painting, don’t just buy them more brushes - take them to a museum or enroll them in a weekend class. These passions might be fleeting, or they might grow into something bigger. Either way, honoring them shows your child that their interests matter, and that learning doesn’t come from a curriculum - it comes from inside.

Celebrate Effort, Not Just Outcome

When your child shows you a crayon drawing or tells you a fact they learned about Saturn’s rings, respond with something more meaningful than “Good job.” Ask them how they did it, what they liked best, what they want to try next. Celebrate the process: the persistence, the questions, the creativity. When they struggle, remind them that mistakes are where the best learning lives. And when they succeed, let the celebration be about more than the grade or the result - it’s about the curiosity that got them there.

Your child’s relationship with learning will evolve, just like everything else. Some years will be harder than others. There will be slumps, and doubts, and tears over homework. But if you’ve built a home where curiosity is nurtured, where exploration is part of the air they breathe, and where learning feels like a gift instead of a burden, they’ll always have a path back to that spark. You don’t have to do it perfectly. You just have to be present, be open, and remember that the best teachers aren’t the ones who know everything - they’re the ones who never stop learning.

Discover a treasure trove of educational resources and insightful reflections at Mr. Robertson’s Corner, where students, families, and educators come together to explore a world of learning and growth.

How to change careers

Photo by Freepik

Tips for Changing Careers to Chase What Moves You

You’ve probably heard it in passing, or muttered it under your breath after a draining workday: “This just isn’t me.” Maybe it’s been years. Maybe it hit you all at once. But that voice, the quiet, annoying one that reminds you there’s something else you could be doing, has stuck around. You’ve got a passion. And it’s not in the job you’re clocking into every day. Here’s how to start listening to that voice before it’s drowned out for good.

Take inventory before you leap

You don’t pack for a trip without knowing where you’re headed. So, before you jump ship, take time to evaluate your job satisfaction, not just the paycheck. Are you burned out because of the work itself, or because you’re not doing something that speaks to you? A quick career change won’t fix boredom if you’re unclear on what ignites your interest. Look at your values, your skills, your energy patterns, what drains you, what fuels you. When you honestly map where you are, it gets a lot easier to decide where to go.

Money matters more than we want it to

Romanticizing the idea of quitting cold turkey is easy. But bills don’t care about dreams. Before you send a resignation letter, review your financial situation and build a realistic cushion. Consider side hustles or part-time gigs while transitioning. Look at debt, insurance, savings, and how long you can sustain yourself without a full-time income. Passion is fuel, sure, but you’ll need a plan to keep the engine running.

Mind the skill gaps

Wanting something doesn’t mean you’re ready for it - yet. Maybe you’re a teacher who dreams of writing code. Or an accountant itching to design furniture. You’ll need to address skill deficiencies before anyone will take a chance on you. That might mean online courses, certifications, apprenticeships, or even unpaid work. It won’t always be thrilling, but neither is being unqualified and disappointed. Invest the time to become what you want to be, not just wish you were.

Find your people, not just your passion

Changing lanes doesn’t mean going it alone. You’ll need others who’ve done it, or who can guide you while you do. Expand your professional network and talk to people already doing what you want to do. Find mentors. DM strangers on LinkedIn. Go to events that feel intimidating. Talk to folks in person, in real rooms, and more importantly, listen to what they’re not posting on Instagram.

Start something, even if it’s small

So you want to start your own thing. Great. But ideas are easy, and structure is harder. First, define the problem you're solving - be specific. Then outline your product or service, pricing, and who your customer is. Register your business name, choose a legal structure, and set up a business bank account. A platform like ZenBusiness can help with setting up an LLC, building a website, managing compliance, or organizing your finances. The goal isn't perfection, it's traction. So get moving while you're motivated.

Keep both feet on the ground

This is where a lot of people trip: thinking passion alone will save them. It won’t. You need to align passion with realistic goals or you’ll find yourself exhausted and broke. What does a good day look like in this new role? What are the compromises? It’s possible to chase fulfillment without abandoning practicality, but only if you’re honest about what’s at stake. This isn't about blind leaps, it's about smart shifts.

Proof that it’s not just you

Doubt creeps in. That’s normal. What helps is hearing stories of people who made it work. A nurse who opened a bakery. An engineer who started teaching exercise and fitness classes. Take time to learn from career changers who’ve already stepped off the expected path and found something better waiting on the other side.

Changing careers to follow your passion isn’t a fantasy, it’s a decision, and a series of actions, and a bunch of scary, exhilarating choices. You don’t need to have everything figured out. But you do need to start. Ask real questions. Learn what you’re missing. Build what you need. Then, one day soon, you’ll realize that the voice in your head isn’t whispering anymore - it’s cheering.

Explore a wealth of resources and insights for students, families, and educators at Mr. Robertson’s Corner, where meaningful conversations and learning opportunities await you!

Admission to United States Naval Academy

Introduction

Admission to the United States Naval Academy (USNA) at Annapolis is a highly-competitive, multi-faceted process designed to select young leaders who demonstrate academic excellence, physical fitness, moral character, and a commitment to service. Each year, roughly 17,000 candidates submit applications for approximately 1,200-1,400 appointment slots. For high school students contemplating this path, understanding the Academy’s requirements, timelines, and evaluation criteria is crucial to maximizing your chances of success.

Eligibility and academic prerequisites

To be eligible for admission, candidates must meet the following basic requirements by July 1 of their year of entry:

• Age: At least 17 but not yet 23 years old
• Citizenship: U.S. citizen (foreign nationals must complete citizenship before Induction Day)
• Marital/Parental Status: Unmarried, with no dependents
• Moral Character: Demonstrated integrity and good conduct throughout high school

Academically, the Naval Academy seeks candidates who have challenged themselves in rigorous coursework:

• Mathematics: Four years, including geometry, algebra, and trigonometry; pre‑calculus and calculus are highly encouraged
• Science: At least one year each of chemistry and physics, preferably with laboratory components
• English & Humanities: Strong writing and critical‑thinking skills honed through literature and history courses
• Foreign Language: At least two years, demonstrating the ability to engage cross‑culturally

Maintaining a transcript with top grades in honors, Advanced Placement (AP), or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses will position you as a strong “whole person” candidate to the Admissions Board.

The Congressional nomination 

A nomination from an authorized source is required to receive an appointment. About 5,000 nominations are granted each year, but only around 1,400 appointments follow - so a nomination alone does not guarantee admission. Common nomination sources include:

• U.S. Representatives (one per congressional district)
• U.S. Senators (two per state)
• The Vice President of the United States
• Service‑connected nominations (e.g., children of career military personnel)

Key Advice:

• Begin early (Spring of junior year): Research each office’s nomination procedure and deadlines - many set their cutoff as early as September-October of your junior year.
• Apply broadly: Seek a nomination from every source for which you are eligible.
• Prepare a strong package: Include transcripts, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and evidence of leadership and community service.

The application process & timeline

Preliminary application

• When: As early as June of junior year, but by January 31 of senior year at the latest.
• What: Online submission of personal data, academic record, and initial essays.

Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DoDMERB)

• Scheduling: Once the Academy deems you an official candidate, DoDMERB coordinates a free medical exam.
• Validity: A qualified medical exam remains valid for two years; a waiver process exists for candidates with disqualifying conditions.

Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA)

• Components: Push‑ups, curl‑ups, shuttle run, basketball throw, pull‑ups (or alternate), and a one‑mile run.
• Timing: Must be completed between June of junior year and February of senior year.

Blue and Gold Officer Interview

• Purpose: A local volunteer “Blue and Gold” officer conducts an in‑depth interview to evaluate your leadership potential and fit with Academy life.

Notifications

• Letters of Assurance (LOA): Highly-qualified candidates may receive an LOA as early as September of senior year.
• Appointments: Final appointment offers are typically extended by mid‑April.

Staying organized with a personalized checklist - and setting calendar reminders for each deadline - will ensure no component is overlooked.

Demonstrating “whole person” excellence

The Naval Academy employs a whole person evaluation, balancing:

• Academics: Rigorous coursework and standardized test scores (SAT/ACT)
• Leadership: Elected offices, team captaincies, club founder roles
• Athletics: Competitive sports participation, especially at the varsity level
• Community service: Sustained volunteer work demonstrating character and commitment
• Character: Letters of recommendation attesting to integrity, resilience, and teamwork

Action steps for high school students:

• Engage in leadership: Seek officer roles in student government, clubs, or scouting organizations.
• Cultivate team skills: Participate in team sports or musical ensembles to demonstrate collaboration under pressure.
• Serve regularly: Commit to a volunteer organization - depth and longevity matter more than sheer hours.
• Build relationships: Forge genuine connections with teachers, coaches, and community leaders who can write compelling recommendations.

Leveraging summer programs

The USNA offers Summer Seminar, a one‑week immersive program in June, providing:

• A preview of academic classes and athletic training
• Interaction with current midshipmen and faculty
• Insight into the daily rhythms of life on “the Yard”

Participation is not required but can strengthen your application by demonstrating sincere interest and giving you firsthand knowledge of Academy culture.

Preparing physically and mentally

Physical readiness and mental resilience are critical:

• Fitness regimen: Follow a structured plan targeting cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, and agility. Practice CFA events under timed conditions.
• Academic rigor: Develop strong study habits; seek help early for challenging math and science courses.
• Stress management: Cultivate habits - such as prayer, mindfulness, time management, and/or journaling - that will help you thrive under the Academy’s demanding environment.

Backup plans and persistence

Admission to all five U.S. Service Academies is fiercely competitive. Should you fall short:

• Naval Academy Preparatory School (NAPS): A 10‑month program to strengthen academic and physical readiness, with many graduates earning subsequent USNA appointments.
• Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC): College scholarships and leadership training through Navy or Marine ROTC programs.
• Other Service Academies: Consider West Point, Air Force Academy, or Coast Guard Academy as alternative paths to military service.

Persistence and adaptability - demonstrating growth from setbacks - are qualities the Academy itself values.

Conclusion

Gaining admission to the Naval Academy requires foresight, dedication, and a commitment to excellence across academics, fitness, leadership, and character. By starting early - particularly in your junior year - meticulously tracking deadlines, actively seeking leadership and service opportunities, and preparing physically for the Candidate Fitness Assessment, you will position yourself as a competitive “whole person” candidate. Even if your first attempt does not yield an appointment, alternative pathways such as NAPS or ROTC can still lead you to a commission as a naval officer. Approach the process with determination, resilience, and integrity, and you will stand out in the quest to join the ranks of Annapolis midshipmen.

For additional information and requirements concerning admission, visit the official USNA website at https://www.usna.edu/Admissions/Apply/FAQ.php