Who We Are?
The Non-Traditional Students Forum is one of four autonomous liberation campaigns affiliated under the Aberdeen University Students’ Association. We are here to represent students who don’t fit within the “traditional” norms of being a university student. We represent students who fit into a different age group than “traditional” students, have families, children, or dependents. We are all-inclusive, however, and welcome all students.
The Non-Traditional Student Forum is a community at the University of Aberdeen who acts as a liaison between societies, students, and AUSA. We provide a voice for you here at the university while offering you representation within the university. We aim to provide activities and events that are different, meaningful, and enjoyable for everyone.
This community will also hold monthly events to help students socialise, form friendships, and provide them a safe space to feel represented around campus. We are always seeking new members and we welcome all students.
Who are the Non-traditional Students?
Non-traditional students, by definition, are students who do not fit the means of the average university student. They may be older, returning students after years away from school, be married, have children or dependents or have work obligations as well as their courses.
President and Convener
Melissa LaRose (PGR)
Hi!! I’m currently a second year PGR student working toward a PhD in Ethnology at the Elphinstone Institute. I'm a mom to three beautiful children, two sons and one daughter. I'm also a Student Ambassador for the University of Aberdeen. I understand what it takes to be a NON-TRADITIONAL STUDENT which is why I wanted to create a place for students, like myself, to call their own. My dissertation is on how modern society relates to fairy lore. I am passionate about giving students of all ages, cultural backgrounds, genders AND their families a place to socialise, meet new people, have their voices heard, and enjoy fun, family-friendly events! I'm a photographer and love to be outside enjoying walks in the Cruickshank Botanical Gardens and by the sea every chance I get.
Vice President and Treasurer
Lyn Taylor (1st Year Masters)
Lyn is a student studying toward her degree in Accountancy and Economcs. She has a background in leadership and sales with an outgoing, fiery personality that is ready to help navigate the future of the NTSF as it grows on campus. Lyn will also be takng the second seat on the student council as a student representative.
Event Coordinator and Staff Representative
Aleksandra
The NTSF strives to represent both students and staff. Aleksandra has taken on the roles of events coordinator and staff representative allowing staff members to feel included in events without being students. Many might recognise her as a face of the InfoHub where she holds the role of coordinator and can often be found assisting students with their many needs. She enjoys travelling and befriending animals along her journeys.
Optional Suggested Reading:
https://moderncampus.com/blog/what-is-a-non-traditional-learner.html
https://www.forbes.com/sites/markcperna/2025/04/01/why-nontraditional-students-are-becoming-the-new-norm/
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/epub/10.1177/2332858418782195