There are a lot of factors that go into this whole idea of the “college life” or the “college experience.” There’s the fresh set of people from various parts of the country (not to mention the world), the unique atmosphere that comes with a college campus, the different and sometimes strange foods, and, of course, the new level of academic rigor! In addition to acclimating to all other factors that make the college experience different from that of high school, the new academic expectations will take some getting used to. Moreover, I found that it is important to go into this new endeavor expecting and accepting that it may take some longer than others to finally get acclimated. Go at your own pace.
The saying “what might be right for some might not be right for you” comes to mind. Just as important as it is for you to be confident enough in yourself to know what activities to take part in socially in your own college experience so it is for you to know how to handle yourself academically. Just like you have those individuals in high school who never really have to put in much effort to glide through classes, you’ll meet some in college. (However, just because they did it in high school is does not guarantee that they’ll be able to in college.) Point being: understand what it takes for YOU to succeed academically and embrace whatever study habits or extra help YOU may need to do so. Don’t waste your time comparing yourself to other students – not even you closest friends.
In my experience, I found that the bar of academic rigor was lifted quite a bit when I got to college. Early in my first semester here I might have let this realization get the best of me and even intimidate me at times. Don’t let it! Be prepared to take the time to get a feel for how much work you will have to do for your classes and what is expected of you in each course. Try not to get too involved with a lot of extracurricular activities as soon as you get to campus. Take it slow. You go to college to grow in a number of ways but, above all, you go to grow scholastically. Understand that you will most likely need to adjust your study habits and increase your study time to excel at the college level. Expect this and embrace this.
During fall semester I wrote at least an essay every week – or so it seemed. This semester I’m almost certain that I’ve read more than I ever did any year (summer reading included!) of high school. Each semester I had three general options: complain, procrastinate, or just do it – I often chose a mixture of these. Bottom line: I learned that my stress level went down and my academic performance went up when I decided to just do it! I found my way to the library often and opted to study more instead of hanging out with friends.
College is all about trying new things, finding new friendships, and making new memories. College is also about finding balance within yourself, your academics, and other aspects of life. I found myself happiest when I was able to balance and prioritize effectively. Honestly, it did take some time to master this skill but in the end it was worth it. I can look back on freshman year with a smile because I know I put in my greatest effort academically while making new friends and having a good time.