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7 Ways College Isn't Like High SchoolFrom the MCG 2009 editionYou 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 faceoff 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 SCHEDULEIn 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 CHOICESIn 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.WORKLOADThe 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 SKILLSIn 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.EXAMSCollege 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 LIFEOut 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 HELPIn 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! |
