There is no single path to KU — in fact, about a quarter of our undergraduates are non-traditional students. 

Every Jayhawk has a story. In this series, we’re highlighting the journeys of KU students who are making their mark on campus, overcoming obstacles and seizing the opportunities that help them grow. These personal stories reflect the spirit and resilience that define KU. 

Today, we’re chatting with Emily Costner, a non-traditional student and parent, about the challenges she has overcome and the campus resources that have supported her. Her resilience and determination are inspiring, and her story is one that deserves to be celebrated. We sat down with Emily to hear more about her journey and what brought her to the Hill.

Q: Tell us a little about yourself and your path to KU. 

A: My name is Emily, and I’m a psychology major with certificates in Leadership Strategies and Applications as well as Mind and Brain. I made it to KU after getting my GED the spring before I applied. I had left my ex-husband and decided I was going to start over. On a whim, I thought, ‘Let’s apply to KU.’

Originally, I applied to the pre-education program. As a first-generation student, I didn’t even realize you had to be accepted into a program like that, so learning about that process was really enlightening. That’s what got me here.

Q: As a first-generation and non-traditional student, what support systems have benefited you at KU?

A: When I applied to KU, I must have checked the box for TRIO, but I had no idea what it was. I was accepted, and during the first week of classes, I went to the department in person and asked, ‘What do I do? Who do I need to talk to?’ That experience really set the tone for my journey — I learned that being proactive is key.

TRIO got me involved in so many opportunities and helped me feel safe at KU. As a first-gen student, I didn’t know much about college, and I hadn’t been in school for so long, so everything felt completely different. TRIO was the biggest academic support program for me.

Later, I found FIRST (Fearless Individuals Reaching Success Together), KU’s student organization for first-gen students. I joined at the end of my freshman year, became secretary my sophomore year, and now, I’m president. It’s a great space to connect with others from similar backgrounds. It’s given me a community and introduced me to so many people from different areas of campus.

Q: On that note, how can students find their own sense of community and belonging at KU?

A: Finding a sense of belonging at KU is easy if you’re proactive. Go to meetings, try different student organizations, and find what fits for you. Don’t just go once — keep trying things out. Step outside of your comfort zone, because that’s what college is all about.

Also, follow organizations on Instagram! That’s how I found FIRST. There are so many student organizations that I didn’t even know existed until I stumbled upon them. Social media and campus resources like Rock Chalk Central  are great places to explore what’s available.

Q: How have the support centers at KU benefited you?

A: I use the Student Access Center (SAC), which is an incredible resource for students with disabilities. I think a lot of people don’t realize they can get accommodations in college. Many neurodivergent students I know didn’t even realize they had access to these resources. 

SAC provides accommodations like extended test time, quiet spaces for exams, note-taking assistance, and access to slides before lectures. Those services have been a game-changer for me academically. TRIO also offers free tutoring, which I used my freshman year. It got me through college algebra! KU has so many academic support options. You just have to seek them out. 

Q: How has KU supported you in balancing school, work, and life as a non-traditional student?

A: KU’s support system is incredible. I honestly wouldn’t have been able to stay in college without it. For non-traditional students who are also parents, KU offers the CCAMPIS program, which helps cover childcare costs at Hilltop if you’re a Pell Grant recipient. That was a huge help for me, especially in my first year. 

Professors at KU are also really understanding. I have friends who started at other colleges and say the level of support here is different. If you communicate with your professors, they’ll work with you. Extensions and flexibility can make a huge difference when you’re juggling so much.

Q: How have KU’s resources helped you build confidence and prepare for your goals?

A: TRIO, for example, has us set academic and personal goals each semester. That structure helped me stay focused and motivated. KU’s tutoring services at the library were also huge for me. My freshman year, I was there every single day. KU always has ways to make sure students have access to what they need to succeed.

Editor’s note: Scheduling tutoring is now easier than ever! Learn more about the free one-on-one tutoring appointments at Wingspan.  

Q: What advice would you give future students about finding the support they need at KU?

A: Start early! Don’t wait until you’re overwhelmed to look for help. Find your support system right away so that when challenges come up, you already have people and resources in place. When you have a mentor or community backing you up, you won’t feel like you’re alone in this. And if you ever do feel that way, they’ll be there to remind you how far you’ve come.

At KU, you'll find clubs, organizations, and campus resources that offer support, connection and community, no matter your goals. Explore KU’s TRIO SES & STEM offices for academic support, connect with peers in the FIRST student organization or find student-parent support at CCAMPIS. Inspired by Emily’s story? Find your path at KU — start your application today!