How College Differs from High School
From academics to extracurricular activities to social aspects, college differs from high school in a number of ways. Review the following so you will be better prepared to make a smooth transition from high school to college.
Academics
|
High School |
College |
| In classes 30+ hours a week |
In classes 12 to 15 hours a week |
| Class attendance is closely monitored |
Class attendance is rarely monitored (although if you do not attend and miss important lectures, you may suffer consequences come grading time |
| Instruction is by lecture,learning activities, games, group work, etc. |
Instruction is mainly by lecture |
| Around 30-35 students per class |
Can range from 10 students to 500+ students per class |
| Teachers approach you if you need assistance |
Professors expect you to initiate contact if you need help |
| Little control over class schedule |
Arrange your own class schedule |
| Grades are based on multiple homework assignments, quizzes, tests, projects, etc. |
Grades are usually based on one or two tests and possibly an essay paper or group project |
| May study very little outside of class |
Should study 2 to 3 hours for every hour in class |
| Teachers tell you what's due for the next day |
You are expected to read the syllabus for assignment due dates |
| Much assistance from teachers |
Learning is more independent |
| Memorization |
Analysis |
Independence/Responsibility
|
High School |
College |
| Live with parents |
Live with roommate |
| Curfew |
No curfew (depending on school/dorm) |
| Parents manage money |
Need money management skills |
| Parents do your laundry (if you're lucky) |
You do your own laundry |
| Parents make sure you are fed |
Must make/buy your own food |
| Parents/teachers may make decisions for you and help solve your problems |
You make your own decisions and solve your own problems |
Time Management/Stress
|
High School |
College |
| Time is very structured |
Time is more flexible; time management skills are crucial |
| Less stressful |
New experiences, schedule, making new friends, etc. can be stressful |
Extracurricular/Social Activities
|
High School |
College |
| Moderate amount of clubs/organizations to join |
Abundance of clubs/organizations to join |
| Old friends |
New friends |
| Prom |
Sorority and fraternity formals |
| Slumber parties |
Greek parties |
Posted: 5/3/2007