Traditionally, teachers of writing have considered it their challenge to prepare students for the workplace. But in growing numbers, students are entering classrooms from the workplace. New trends in the way Americans define themselves as workers and life-long learners call for a redefinition of the role of writing in the academic world. Some creative solutions can help teachers address the sensitive issues of writing anxiety in returning adult students, who are confident on the job but uneasy with academic writing after being away from the classroom setting for a number of years. Being overwhelmed with first writing assignments is common to all students, but because they feel isolated, returning students may not realize this. A solution is to create a Saturday afternoon student forum where they may talk with other students as well as with administration and faculty. Another example is the creation of a writing center as a permanent place offering ongoing help on an individualized basis for adult students. Paths for dialogue among faculty of all disciplines should be explored to face the challenge of the shared issue of teaching the returning student. (CR)