I would do it like this: "Nontraditional students put extra effort into learning; they realize the value of it."

I would add a word, making a clause: Nontraditional students put extra effort into learning when they realize the value of it."

Faber told him that their were Harvard ,degrees students and he actually saw Harvard ,degree students.

I feel that I can support students in reaching their full potential. I feel that i can help students bring out the best in themselves I am patient and realize that everyone learns differently- I am willing to find out how each of my students learns best. I realize that my role is not to dump all my knowledge into my students, but my role is to help my students discover the answers for themselves. I need to give them the tools to find the answers they'll seek through out their lives. I consider myself a life-long learner and I am confident that I can help my students discover the excitement of learning.

students think they can do whatever they want but the life ahead is what they have to plan for and they don't realize they don't got much time to be a kid anymore and they need to plan ahead of themselfs

You realize of course that nobody can answer this without knowing who the author is and where he says that students should do this. I tend to agree, but my reasons may not be the same as his, so neither I or anyone can answer your question.