Transitioning from high school to college requires careful preparation and planning to ensure a successful and smooth transition. College marks a new chapter in your life where you can meet new people and try new things, preparing like a pro is the best way to make this transition.
Aubry Dove, one of Foran’s school counselors, states, “ I think that maybe what most students don’t realize is that the world gets a lot bigger once you leave high school, and there are fewer adults around automatically helping you out. Starting to be your advocate and how to ask questions now is a great place to start preparing for that next step.”
When making the switch from high school to college, students must learn how to start being their own advocates and learn that life gets a lot bigger than just high school and college. Part of being prepared for college is being prepared for life out in the world.
“Take on an internship, get a job, say yes to a trip to a new place, try to meet new people; try to be a ‘yes’ person when it comes to new experiences, says Dove.
Trying new things and meeting new people is a big part of college. Starting to become a little more adventurous now in a place you are comfortable with, is a great way to prepare to become an adventurous person in college. This can lead to new friendships and great memories to come.
Although it’s important to build relationships going into college, it’s just as important to prepare for the educational aspect of it. Studying and staying on top of tasks is important to be successful in college.
“Put your education first to prepare as much as possible for college classes and the work you will have to do.” Says Foran alumnus Charlotte Mackell
There are many ways you can manage your time to be able to prioritize school, but also have time to explore new things and form new friendships. According to the Harvard Summer School’s 8 Time Management Tips for Students, the best things to do to manage your time are to create a calendar, set reminders, build a personalized schedule, make time for yourself and the things you enjoy, and be realistic and flexible.
“Time management isn’t just about getting work done. It’s also about ensuring that you can put yourself and your mental well-being first.”States Harvard Summer School’s 8 Time Management Tips for Students.
When academics are prioritized, it can create more opportunities to explore other activities. College offers increased flexibility, allowing students to plan their schedules and manage various responsibilities independently.
Foran alumnus Olivia Salai states, “I wish someone had told me how much freedom I would have in structuring my time. College is a lot different from high school in a sense that I can rearrange my classes, work, and extracurriculars around my own personal schedule.”
One major difference between college and high school is the freedom you’re given. In college, students have to manage their own time and set up a schedule that works for their classes, work, and other activities.
