Everyone you meet who has moved on from high school to college will tell you that college is so much better than high school, and you have so much more freedom, and nothing is out of the question. As true as that all is, I thought it'd be a good idea to address what I miss about high school rather than addressing what I love about college.
If there's one thing I miss about high school it's the homework grade. Yes, in college you have homework, but do professors check it daily? Basically never. In high school, you had this fallback; you always knew that if you bombed a test or two your homework grade would keep your average floating above water. You don't exactly have that luxury in college. In college, your grade relies basically on tests and projects. This can be horrifying for the people who flew through high school on a good homework grade, but the good news is it doesn't take long to get used to.
Another big difference that I noticed is the personal connections you have with your teachers, and the fact that you probably know the names of all the kids in your class. If you go to a smaller school, of course, you will still have those connections with professors but overall, you have to work to create strong rapports with your professors. This means going to office hours, asking a lot of questions, and making your name known in the classroom. Class also feels a little bit less personal due to the fact that you probably don't know the names of all the other students in your class. Granted, it's only the beginning of my second month here at Villanova, but I am the only freshman in one of my classes. Maybe it's a direct reflection of my social skills, or lack thereof, but I can't tell you the name of anyone in that class.
There's also the whole home aspect of high school. You get to go home after practice or club meetings, and your parents are probably making you dinner. You have this structure that you know will always be there when you get home. In college, you're on your own. No one is getting your food for you or bringing you tea in the morning when you feel sick.
With all that being said, remember that your college years will probably be the most spoiled years of your life. You are given (usually) quality housing. You don't have to worry about making your own food, only going to get it. You have access to fitness centers, and I know that especially at Villanova, the Davis Center is absolutely amazing. Personally, I have access to beautiful academic buildings and free tutoring services. I don't have to worry about taking my trash out, or cleaning the bathrooms every single day. College, despite all of its difficulties, is a luxury in itself.
While high school is full of memories that I will never forget, I am excited to embrace my independence and be grateful for the opportunities that Villanova University has to offer me.
