As a high school senior, I remember being afraid to go to college the next fall because there were so many things I had heard others say and have seen on TV about how different college is to high school. However, after being in college for the past two years, I can say that there are a lot of ideas about college that students hear and see that aren't exactly true. Don't get me wrong, college is a lot more to handle (they definitely didn't get that one wrong), but there are some things I think you should know before you get to college.
1. You won't meet your lifelong friends right away.
A lot of students in college are really busy so making friends can be hard many students work along with going to school and have other obligations.
2. Professors aren't monsters.
The biggest misconception about college in my mind is the notion that professors don't care about their students and whether or not they pass their classes. Some professors have giant lectures with hundreds of students on the roster, so there is no way every professor will know and be able to help all of their students. Even though they don't know everyone, if you need help with the class they are always more than happy to help you out until you understand the material. Professors certainly aren't monsters, they're just busy people.
3. Greek Life isn't all about partying.
They actually can be quite beneficial with things like time management and studying. They also are a great way for you to meet friends and be involved with your school.
4. The food does not get better.
If anything, the chicken patties you had in high school is probably better. The only thing that changes is the price for not so good food, my own school even has an Instagram page dedicated to its grossness
5. Making a schedule is difficult.
As much as people tell you that you can make your own schedule, it's actually quite hard. College gives you the freedom to make your own schedule but a lot of the time the school only offers a few of the same classes all around the same time which makes it harder to get the schedule you want.
6. College is not a walk in the park.
It may seem like it when you first get there. You might get out of class early that first day and leave without homework, but eventually, it all piles up. You'll have tons of work all due at the same time and are trying to balance the rest of your life along with it.
7. You won't be able to sleep all the time.
Sleeping all the time is not how it works. In college, sleeping late is a luxury, especially during finals week. Most of the time, you'll silently curse yourself for registering for an 8AM class.
8. You won't talk to your high school best friend every day.
Even though you're best friends, it will probably be really hard to keep in touch. Although you don't talk all the time, you'll always have each other. When you do get to see each other, will be like you just left off.
9. Your professor WILL notice when you don't show up.
Most likely they probably will and in most classes, it can affect your grade. Be wise when deciding whether or not to go to class.
10. You won't be able to spend money on whatever you want.
Newsflash: textbooks are crazy expensive, so say goodbye to your money and hello to coupons.
11. College is nothing like high school.
In college, you are expected to be independent and manage yourself. There isn't going to be anyone there to wake you up in the morning to make sure you go to class or do your homework. you have to want to succeed in order to do well.
