HIGH SCHOOL TO COLLEGE
By Praise Chikezie
The transition from high school to college is a journey to discover one’s self and also learn and grow in as many ways as possible.
Being a high school graduate going to college is exciting, nerve-wracking and filled with so many questions but nevertheless that time in your life is always memorable.
I remember my grandma telling me being smart isn’t enough during your time in college which is absolutely true. Coming from high school to college can be a culture shock for almost every student because you don’t know what to expect and how to prepare but being ready to learn and when I say learn I mean learning from other things apart from class like student organizations, student events, and networking events.
Here are some tips that will help you with your transition from high school to College better:
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1. Always ask questions:
Remember, for every question asked in a situation, there are also students that were scared to ask the question. Asking questions will prevent any confusion you might have concerning a study material or situation as the case may be. You pay a huge amount of money to go to college so you might as well use all the resources that your school provides for you including going to your teaching assistants (TA’s), going to your professor’s office hours, using the counseling center(your mental health is really important).
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2. Remember why you are in college:
Do NOT forget the reason you are in college because that will derail you from achieving your goal for going to college or might even prolong your stay in college. Surround yourself with friends that have similar goals as you and make friends in your classes so you schedule study hours with them. Talk to older students that have taken classes you are currently taking so that you can get more information. Many older students in your majors probably know more about the professors than you do and can give you advice on how to approach certain professors that might be difficult.
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3. Know yourself
Knowing yourself means acknowledging your weaknesses and strengths and make a schedule that fits your lifestyle. Don’t try to be what you are not because you will end up struggling. If you are a morning person definitely choose the morning classes but if you struggle to get up every morning you can pick up in the afternoon or evening classes. If you decide to work let your employer know when you have classes for your work schedule. If you know you struggle with certain classes make out the time on your schedule to meet up with your professors or TA’s and go for Supplemental Instruction. At the end of the day, you know yourself more than anyone else does so do what works best for you
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4. Make friends with your professors
Your professors will be one of your biggest assets during your college careers. Your professors will help you get internships, write recommendation letters and also tell you about research opportunities or any other scholarships and information you might need.
You are finally in college so always be eager to learn about so many things and also unlearn a lot since you will meet a lot of people from different backgrounds. Be flexible and always try to enjoy every moment because you worked for it and deserve it!!