The transition from high school to university can be really tricky for those who can't remember a life outside of school! From the way students are treated, to the amount of responsibility, and the way classes are delivered - so much is dramatically different from school. So what are the biggest changes to expect?
- You need to be able to motivate yourself
If you're having trouble motivating yourself to work for school, you may find university even more tough. Professors are more likely to fail you than follow up an assignment you forgot to submit, and there just isn't the same level of support. In some subjects, you can fail if you don't attend enough classes, and teachers don't have to follow up with you if you miss too many classes. This is in part due to class sizes, but the positive side is that teachers expect more of students - you shouldn't be treated like a child any more!
- Making friends can be harder
Unlike high school, you probably won't be seeing the same people in every class. So get ready to overcome that awkwardness and introduce yourself to the people in your classes, especially when you first start! If that doesn't work out, don't stress, because unis also usually have a multitude of clubs you can join, which is a great way to meet people with similar interests.
- You have so much more freedom!
Compared to high school, the amount of personal freedom you have in university is remarkable. Not only do you have massive holidays, you are free to come and go whenever, you can sort out your own timetable and classes, and you have the freedom to choose how much effort you put into everything. The aphorism, 'you get out what you put in' is particularly pertinent in this case.
When making the choice whether to apply to go to university, do take into account your own learning style and whether you think it will suit you. The amount of choice and freedom will suit some, but not others. The choice is yours!
If you loved this article, you will LOVE all of our other articles, such as: How To Structure A Comparative Essay (VCE English Tips) and 2U Maths Tips from a Past Student (98 in 2U Maths)!
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