Spring is a big time of year for the college-bound—getting acceptance letters, figuring out financial aid, making a decision. Even in a typical year, it can be overwhelming. But this is not a typical year.

This episode of NPR's Life Kit offers insight on navigating college admissions during the uncertainty brought on by the coronavirus pandemic.

On a typical weekday, Cindy Buchanan drives more than an hour from her home to attend cosmetology classes at the Tennessee College of Applied Technology at Harriman. There, 47-year-old Buchanan cuts, dyes, and perms the hair of mannequins. Two days a week she gets to practice on clients.

These days, Buchanan’s commute is just a short walk to her computer. Her lessons have moved online due to concerns about the spread of COVID-19. 

Buchanan is one of America’s 36 million adult learners. They face unique challenges as courses move online because, unlike some of their younger peers, they often juggle their coursework with full-time jobs, child care, and caring for older relatives.