Nearly half of the students at Southern Utah University in Cedar City are navigating college life while balancing families, careers and other adult responsibilities—and the university has built an entire support system around them.

Non-traditional students make up about 42% of current enrollment at SUU, and the university's Non-Traditional Student Services Center, located in the Sharwan Smith Student Center, provides tailored resources to help this growing population succeed.

Who Counts as a Non-Traditional Student?

The university defines non-traditional students as those who are over 25, have children or have taken at least a three-year break from their education.

For many, that means juggling coursework alongside jobs, childcare, military service or caring for family members.

"I love serving the non-traditional student population here at SUU because it's so beautiful to watch people achieving their dreams," said Emily Walters, a peer mentor at the center, in a recent SUU News feature.

"It's very common for non-traditional students to experience struggles in school and in their personal lives that are completely different from what the stereotypical college student may be going through."

What the Center Offers

The Non-Traditional Student Services Center provides a dedicated space for students to connect with peers, access campus resources and find support through programs designed specifically for their needs.

Services include family passes to SUU athletic games, theater performances and campus events—allowing students to bring their families into the university experience.

The center also offers peer mentoring, help navigating financial aid and connections to childcare resources.

Real Stories from Cedar City

Allisa Thayer, a non-traditional student at SUU, runs a business and cares for her three-year-old son while pursuing her degree.

"I navigate work, school and family by having a good support system," Thayer told SUU News.

"My grandma is my biggest supporter and she's the reason why I'm able to do everything that I do."

Thayer's motivation is deeply personal.

"I'm continuing my education for my son; he's my motivation. I grew up really poor and I'm determined to make sure he doesn't grow up the way I did."

Why This Matters for Cedar City

The presence of a thriving non-traditional student community at SUU reflects broader trends across the country, where more adults are returning to school to finish degrees, switch careers or upskill in a changing economy.

For Cedar City, it means the university is not just serving recent high school graduates—it's supporting working parents, veterans and lifelong learners who are part of the fabric of the local community.

The Non-Traditional Student Services Center is located in the Sharwan Smith Student Center, room ST 172, and is open to all non-traditional students seeking connection and support.