The first year of University can be very overwhelming for recent high school graduates. To make the transition smoother, knowing the key differences between high school and University is essential. I will outline, through my experience, some of the critical differences between the two.
Attending University your freshman year can be as nerveracking as ever. Stress and anxiety are at an ultimate high as you wonder what this new journey in your life will bring. How will you fit in? What if you find it too academically challenging? What if you become homesick? These are only some of the questions that new students may be asking themselves. It is important that students prepare as best as they can for this new chapter in their lives.
There are several differences between high school and University, both academically and socially:
In high school, classes are long and students are required to attend every class. A high school student is usually at school for 7-8 hours a day. In University however, depending on the day, the hours that a student spends in the classroom will differ. Some days, a student may not even have a scheduled class, while other days they may have a few classes, with breaks in between.
Failing a test in high school typically has little effect on the student’s overall grade. In University, tests and assignments are more than often worth a large percentage of the student’s final grade; so good class attendance and study habits are important for academic success.
The teachers in high school take a pro-active approach in their students lives. They provide a stepping stone for students by making sure deadlines are met, checking homework, and providing one-on-one help after class. In contrast, University Professors expect students to complete their assignments on time, read their textbooks, and visit them during office hours if they require additional help.
As for the social aspect of high school versus University, personal freedom is the largest difference. In University, no one is looking over your shoulder or telling you what to do and how to do it. A student must be mature enough to use their personal freedom to their academic advantage. At times, University can take a toll on students if they are not adequately prepared for this freedom.
The average student attends class in University for about fifteen hours a week, with large gaps in between classes. This leaves students with a lot of free time. Students need to learn how to effectively manage their free time by using this time to catch up on their academics (work hard, play later).
The social life of University is a huge change. It can be overwhelming at first as students meet new friends, classmates and Professors. Students may be introduced to many new temptations such as drugs and alcohol, but they should never lose grasp of their core beliefs and values. It’s important to have a good balance between your social life and acamedics. You are at University to study so remind yourself of this when you are being pressured to go out with friends the night before a big assignment is due. This is not to say that you cannot have fun making new life long friends and relationships. Just keep in mind that you must remained focused on your academics in order to survive the University life.
I recommend that you join any extra-curricular activities that you can, including anything from sports, to volunteer work, to student clubs. It’s a great way to meet new friends and relieve any stress that comes with making the transition from high school to University.
Remember that University is a once and a lifetime experience. Make the most of it while you are there – it goes by too quickly!