Dear high school seniors,
As you begin the countdown to graduation, do not be in a hurry to leave high school behind. When I was in high school, I could not wait to get out, but now that I have finished my first year of college, I miss high school. High school was easy and I miss being a part of all of the clubs and activities I was in. You may think you are ready for college, but nothing will prepare you for your first year. If you think high school was stressful, well then multiply that by 15 and that will tell you how stressful college is.
I thought I was ready to go away for school and be away from my mom. I was, in a sense, but I definitely was not, as well. I had to learn how to do certain things on my own. I had to learn how to handle problems with my professors on my own. College professors do not let parents solve their children's problems. A professor respects the student more if they come to them with the problem, however, you can still ask your parents for guidance or a way of helping you figure it out.
Establish good homework and studying habits while you can. I did not have the best study or homework habits and it definitely showed. I struggled to get my homework done in one sitting, because I did not have good homework habits. Getting your homework done right after class or as soon as you can will be very beneficial. You will retain the information better. It will also be a good idea if you can stay ahead in your classes. Staying ahead will help you stay up to date on your work and college will not be as stressful for you.
College is a big adjustment. If you do not have a great first semester, do not worry. It is only the first semester, so it will get better. A lot of times people have a rough first semester because of the adjustment from high school and living at home to taking 15 to 18 credit hours and being away from home. Do not worry! You can do it. Also, remember to have fun. Yes, school is your main priority, but do not be afraid do things with friends like going to sporting events or just having fun doing whatever with friends. Friends help keep you sane.
Sincerely,
A college freshman