Their lust for knowledge has taken them to history lectures, art seminars, and even to crunching numbers in calculus, every time bringing their unique perspective to the proceedings. The obvious generation gap has led many students at UWM to question the futility of these adult students; are they a hindrance to learning at UW-Milwaukee or a welcome guest from a time gone by.

 If you have ever had a class with an auditor there are certain things that make learning with them a challenge. Because many adult students take classes for the experience, they might not take part in exams or do the homework. Because of this, auditors sometimes don’t focus on exam related questions and materials in class. Asking off-topic questions and ranting can become quite an annoyance considering you need the information for a test.

For example, in history classes the phrase, “Well if I remember correctly…” is tossed around a lot. Adults in the classroom are also rampant overachievers. Many go above and beyond what a normal college student does, memorizing every letter of the assigned readings and relishing in the extra credit. This normally wouldn’t be a problem but, c’mon, you're making us look bad here!

Despite these things, seniors bring something that your typical 18 to 23-year-old doesn’t to campus. Auditors have so many life experiences and worldly knowledge right at their fingertips. They are a time-capsule ready to be cracked open. What is better than having a history lecture with someone who experienced that time period firsthand?

Many also are equipped with a sharp sense of humor, which makes you want to come to class just to hear what they are going to say that day. Lastly, their friendly, open attitude is refreshing in a drafty college classroom. Coming to class and seeing their liver-spotted smile, brimming with eagerness for today’s lecture, surely puts you in a good mood even in the most boring of classes.

Whether it’s causing sidewalk traffic jams with their wheeled backpacks or raising their hand for the fifth time that hour, older students have made their mark here at UWM. Yes, they have their faults, but auditors have typically gotten a bad rap. They really should be given some credit for bettering themselves instead of watching reruns of “I Love Lucy” all day.

They may not be your typical college student, but they sure do spice up a dull class with their special brand of elderly wisdom and charm.