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Making the College AdjustmentCollege is an exciting time. However, many students find themselves struggling with the transition to college and the responsibilities that come with being a college student. It is important for new students to understand how college is different from high school as well as what is expected of them as college students.
High School vs. CollegeThere are many differences between high school and college. It is important to recognize these differences to prepare yourself for the transition to college.
| High School |
College |
| Teacher/student contact is closer and more frequent because classes meet every day. Teachers also pay closer attention to whether or not students are staying on top of assignments. |
Faculty are primarily available during office hours, after class or by appointment. Classes meet less frequently and instructors expect students to stay on top of assignments. |
| The majority of work is done in school with a couple hours of homework each night. |
The majority of work is done at home, with a few hours of in-class time per week. |
| Students depend on others to help them make decisions. |
Students are more independent and rely more on themselves to make decisions, especially if they are no longer living at home. |
| Students must follow parents' rules and restrictions. Parents will often help students get out of difficult situations. |
Students have more freedom and need to take responsibility for their own actions. |
| Reputations are often established early in high school and are difficult to change. Students often make friends early and keep the same group of friends throughout high school. |
Reputations are new. Students have the opportunity to continuously reinvent themselves, meet new people and develop their interests. |
| Students tend to adopt their parents' views and values. |
There is the opportunity for more distraction since students have more free time. It is important for students to understand how to budget their time. |
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