You might have heard that, unlike high school, college is a mythical land where parties overrule study sessions and professors don’t care if you skip class.
Not quite. While the college experience certainly has its perks, the high school vs. college face-off isn’t as simple as good vs. bad, or work vs. fun. It’s important to know the differences between the two.
FLEXIBILITY IN YOUR SCHEDULE
In high school your time is structured for you with bells and a beginning and end to your school day. In college you structure your time. Your classes start at different times and are spread throughout the day. It’s up to you to decide how to fill the time between classes and activities.
MORE COURSE CHOICES
In high school most of your classes are chosen for you. In college other than the basic core requirements there’s not only a wider selection of courses but you also have more say in the selection process.
WORKLOAD
The college workload is often heavier than the high school workload: more preparation outside of class more studying more books more papers and more (or at least more intensive) tests. Don’t expect to be reminded of due dates; your professors will expect you to keep up with the syllabus. But don’t worry — most students who have done well in high school do fine in college.
NOTE-TAKING SKILLS
In college especially in lecture classes the ability to take good notes is more important than in high school. In many cases you can’t rely on study guides or handouts from your teachers.
EXAMS
College exams often involve much more than high school tests. For example multiple-choice questions are sometimes supplemented with or replaced by essays and short-answer questions.
SOCIAL LIFE
Out from under your parents’ rules in college you have more social freedom. You can go out every night of the week if you so choose though your academic performance not to mention your health and energy level may suffer — so take it easy!
GETTING HELP
In high school your needs are more readily anticipated; help comes to you. In college help is there — both academic and otherwise — but you have to ask for it (so ask!).
While college means more fun and more work it also means more responsibility particularly if you’re living away from home for the first time. Remember you’ll have the opportunity to make your college experience the best it can be!
