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 In most instances, people experience
greater success when they know what to expect. In college, expect to
find the following:
Varying class sizes
Class sizes vary depending on the college and the course. While most
college classes have fewer than 30 students, classes can have anywhere
from 15 – 200 students.
The need for critical thinking skills
In college you will be expected to understand and remember what you read.
You will also be asked to draw conclusions, form opinions, and evaluate
the ideas of others.
More emphasis on tests and less busywork
College homework assignments are often never checked or graded. Students
who get good grades, however, do all of their assignments anyway. They
know that at some point they’ll be tested on the material.
The need for personal responsibility
In college, you have a tremendous amount of freedom. No one is monitoring
your progress. No one is checking to see if you are going to class,
and no one knows whether or not you’re doing your assignments.
You are responsible for your own academic progress.
Consequences for low grades
All colleges have academic standards that students must meet in order
to stay enrolled. Most colleges put students on academic probation
if their grades fall below a certain point. If these students don’t
bring their grades up by the end of the next term, they’re withdrawn
from college.
Less time in class and more emphasis on independent study
In college, you are expected to do most of your learning on your own.
The general rule is: For every one hour you spend in class, you should
spend two hours out of class reading, studying, and completing assignments.
You initiate the action
Nothing happens until you act or ask. In college, you initiate scheduling advising appointment's, making changes, registering for classes, and
applying for graduation. If you have questions, you will not find out
the answer unless you ask.
Paying for your Education
In college you pay for your tuition, books, transportation, supplies,
and special fees.
Parents/Significant Others
Due to FERPA (Federal Education Right to Privacy Act), a college can
not release your academic information to anyone without your written
consent.
Use of Internet/WEB
Increasingly, colleges are using the internet and WEB as a means of informing
students. Students use the WEB to access student records, register
for class, check degree process, and examine financial
aid packages.
Diversity
Be prepared to interact with a wider range of people. In college, you
will have the opportunity to interact with students, staff, and faculty
that vary in age, ethnicity, race, orientation, and religion. In the
classroom you will notice personality differences, differences in learning
and teaching styles, and differences in personal experiences.
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