College is a big, sometimes scary, leap and I want to know what I'm stepping into. What was the most challenging part of your college experience? It could be anything from academics to lifestyle changes. I'm all ears!
From an advising perspective, often the most challenging transition into college academia for many students is time management. In high school, your day is fairly structured with set class times, and often extracurricular activities are scheduled directly after school. However, college brings a much more flexible schedule with larger gaps between classes, some days might even be free from classes entirely. This can lead to a false sense of abundance of time.
Juggling classes, assignments, studying, work-study jobs, clubs, sports, socializing, and self-care can be overwhelming. Unfortunately, time management isn't something most students are explicitly taught in high school, and there's often a steep learning curve for this in college.
To navigate this hurdle, successful students often use tools like planners or digital calendars to map out their weeks and dedicated study times. It's also essential to be self-aware and understand when you work best. For example, if you're a morning person, schedule your study sessions in the morning when you're most alert and reserve less mentally taxing activities for later in the day.
Of course, this experience can vary greatly depending on the person. The key is to figure out what works best for you, and don't be afraid to ask for assistance along the way. Universities generally offer resources like tutoring, writing help, or counseling to aid with these transitions.
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