6 answers
Livia
Student
Okmulgee, Oklahoma
2
Questions
Asked
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What was your first year of college like?
I am a high school senior and i’m planning on going to college next fall and would just like to hear about different experiences, good and bad! Any advice is welcome too
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6 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1616
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Livia college academics differ from high school classes in a variety of ways. I can't emphasizes enough that you'll need to be prepared for professors to base your grades on your understanding the class material and the critical thinking versus just your effort. This is typically a major difference you'll face as you transition from high school to college. It’s important to study beyond your lecture notes to avoid mistaking the mistake this is equivalent to understanding. I also suggest college you should identify patterns and make connections beyond the class parameters.
Another important college expectation for college freshman is to be academically responsible. This includes attending and participating in class, meeting deadlines, and reaching out for further assistance. Contrary to high school, college professors may not notice you’ve missed class based on the sheer number of students they teach. While your professors care about your studies, they typically will not reach out to you inquiring about absences or late work. It’s their expectation that you contact them with clarifying questions when problems, such as missing class, arise. Acknowledging this, it’s important that you meet the class deadlines and communicate when necessary. This will ultimately avoid having missing attendance and assignments impact your final grade.
Everyone will ask your major, don’t decide until you’re ready.
One of the first questions you’re going to get as a freshman is, “What’s your major?” There’s nothing wrong with this question and it can be a good conversation starter. But, hearing it over and over without an answer can create the standard that you have to decide your first year, or you’re in trouble. That’s not true. One of the worst decisions in college is picking the wrong major because of pressure from your parents, friends, or society. When you graduate, you want to work in a field that makes you happy. So, take your time and choose the right major for yourself, not other people. In addition, you might need an internship during the summer to help you choose a major.
I hope this will be helpful Livia
You’ll have independence and flexibility like never before. No longer are you stuck to the 8am to 3pm school-hour schedule. College gives you freedom to take only morning classes or afternoon classes. Or you can schedule all five classes on Monday and Wednesday and have five days a week without class. (I don’t recommend that. My preference is to balance your classes Monday through Thursday, and get Fridays off.)
Part of freshmen year is taking general education classes that you have no interest in. There’s two ways to tackle these classes. You can think of them as a waste of time as you struggle to show up and study. Or, you can view this introductory class as a small and necessary step to accomplishing your long-term goals. Finding a purpose in an introductory class will make time pass smoother and you’ll do better.
Another important college expectation for college freshman is to be academically responsible. This includes attending and participating in class, meeting deadlines, and reaching out for further assistance. Contrary to high school, college professors may not notice you’ve missed class based on the sheer number of students they teach. While your professors care about your studies, they typically will not reach out to you inquiring about absences or late work. It’s their expectation that you contact them with clarifying questions when problems, such as missing class, arise. Acknowledging this, it’s important that you meet the class deadlines and communicate when necessary. This will ultimately avoid having missing attendance and assignments impact your final grade.
Everyone will ask your major, don’t decide until you’re ready.
One of the first questions you’re going to get as a freshman is, “What’s your major?” There’s nothing wrong with this question and it can be a good conversation starter. But, hearing it over and over without an answer can create the standard that you have to decide your first year, or you’re in trouble. That’s not true. One of the worst decisions in college is picking the wrong major because of pressure from your parents, friends, or society. When you graduate, you want to work in a field that makes you happy. So, take your time and choose the right major for yourself, not other people. In addition, you might need an internship during the summer to help you choose a major.
I hope this will be helpful Livia
Doc recommends the following next steps:
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1913
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
My personal experience of my first year in college was interesting and fabulous - more than I ever could have thought !
I relocated from New York State to California - a person who never traveled before. I was 17, soon to turn 18. I skipped that Fall semester so that I could work and get used to the culture shock which was very exciting and new to me. Same country but completely different from the culture I was raised in.
I had my mind, eyes and spirit set on going into acting so I took an introduction to theatre class. That reaffirmed my lifelong thoughts. I made a lot of friends quickly in the theatre department as well as meeting friends working my work study jobs on campus. The social life was rich and much to my amazement, I was cast in the very first play I auditioned for. On top of that, I had the opportunity to be an extra in a TV movie of the week starring John Ritter who I met personally during the shoot. I was so pleased with how utterly friendly and good the people were. During this time, I had two roommates and we were renting a house with a pool and a hot tub. Just too much fun !
I continued to use and build upon my study skills that I had already developed and obtained a good GPA. The required courses outside of my major ended up being wonderful, too. Ultimately, I was totally immersed in theatre. Whether it was acting, going to a play or working tech on a play, I lived theatre 24/7 and loved it. There were lots of cultural events and house parties to go to so there was always something socially entertaining to do. I dated just one young man whom I met while I was working props on a musical at the college. I was still getting used to how different California was, but never lost my New York ways. Adjusting well, the people there seemed to be unusually impressed that I was from New York. I kept telling them, not New York City - upstate New York. But it made me feel good that they thought NY was cool.
It was the start of some of the best years of my life. When I think back upon those days, it is always with fondness and love in my heart. I feel very fortunate to have those memories.
My advice is to always explore and try new things. Even though my experience was a large step, it worked out wonderfully. Be careful in all you do and use discretion. Make time for work but do not forget to make time for fun, too.
I relocated from New York State to California - a person who never traveled before. I was 17, soon to turn 18. I skipped that Fall semester so that I could work and get used to the culture shock which was very exciting and new to me. Same country but completely different from the culture I was raised in.
I had my mind, eyes and spirit set on going into acting so I took an introduction to theatre class. That reaffirmed my lifelong thoughts. I made a lot of friends quickly in the theatre department as well as meeting friends working my work study jobs on campus. The social life was rich and much to my amazement, I was cast in the very first play I auditioned for. On top of that, I had the opportunity to be an extra in a TV movie of the week starring John Ritter who I met personally during the shoot. I was so pleased with how utterly friendly and good the people were. During this time, I had two roommates and we were renting a house with a pool and a hot tub. Just too much fun !
I continued to use and build upon my study skills that I had already developed and obtained a good GPA. The required courses outside of my major ended up being wonderful, too. Ultimately, I was totally immersed in theatre. Whether it was acting, going to a play or working tech on a play, I lived theatre 24/7 and loved it. There were lots of cultural events and house parties to go to so there was always something socially entertaining to do. I dated just one young man whom I met while I was working props on a musical at the college. I was still getting used to how different California was, but never lost my New York ways. Adjusting well, the people there seemed to be unusually impressed that I was from New York. I kept telling them, not New York City - upstate New York. But it made me feel good that they thought NY was cool.
It was the start of some of the best years of my life. When I think back upon those days, it is always with fondness and love in my heart. I feel very fortunate to have those memories.
My advice is to always explore and try new things. Even though my experience was a large step, it worked out wonderfully. Be careful in all you do and use discretion. Make time for work but do not forget to make time for fun, too.
Thank you for sharing! I’m also an actor and i’m considering on going to college for theatre in new york!
Livia
You are very welcome, Livia. Your plans sound wonderful ! Best wishes to you !
Michelle M.
Job Hall
Real Estate Manager
125
Answers
Reno, Nevada
Updated
Job’s Answer
We all have different plans and goals, and I wanted to get rich. I went to Stanford and graduated in economics and international affairs at top of my class. I then went to Wall Street and became the youngest broker on the floor of the NYSE.
I then went to law school.
For me grades were the # 1 priority for me.
College is much more rigorous and time consuming, but you are learning how to learn. No joke.
In the alternative you may take your time and enjoy college.
The good thing is that if you are studying something that you are interested in and like you will be much more prone to get better grades. Concentrate on things you like and excellent at. You probably will be working in that field and have a high quality of life.
Money is nice but does not make you happier as you make more. Have a high quality of life while you can, it will be the healthiest and most rewarding to look back on .
Good luck
I then went to law school.
For me grades were the # 1 priority for me.
College is much more rigorous and time consuming, but you are learning how to learn. No joke.
In the alternative you may take your time and enjoy college.
The good thing is that if you are studying something that you are interested in and like you will be much more prone to get better grades. Concentrate on things you like and excellent at. You probably will be working in that field and have a high quality of life.
Money is nice but does not make you happier as you make more. Have a high quality of life while you can, it will be the healthiest and most rewarding to look back on .
Good luck
Thanks for the advice.
Livia
A. Michelle Hawkins
Make contributions and identify volunteer opportunities for employees
108
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
A. Michelle’s Answer
My first year of college was a mix of new experiences and responsibilities, but I would do it again in a heartbeat. My high school prepared me well academically for college, but it was a bit of an adjustment making all academic decisions with little adult oversight. College was the first time I had ever lived away from family, so it could be a bit lonely. I did meet new people with whom I am still in touch today. I worked a campus job, so I didn’t have quite as much free time as some of my classmates, but I was able to keep my borrowing to a minimum. My one regret was not focusing on my physical well-being as much as I should have, by exercising and eating right. It appears that schools prioritize this more now than during my college days.
Thank you for sharing i appreciate it!
Livia
Doris Hu
Sr. Director of Sales Operations
20
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Doris’s Answer
Starting college can feel a bit daunting initially. To ease into this new environment, I stuck around with my high school buddies. I was eager to become part of various clubs, but the sheer number of options made me feel a bit overwhelmed. However, as time passed, I started feeling more at home and began actively participating in club activities. I can't stress enough how beneficial joining clubs can be in helping you find your tribe. That's exactly how I stumbled upon some of my lifelong friends.
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
521
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Reflecting on my first year in college, I recall the mix of emotions that accompanied the transition from high school to higher education. As a young and eager student, I embarked on a journey of personal growth and academic exploration. Looking back, I can offer some valuable insights and advice to those starting their college journey:
1. Embrace New Challenges: The transition to college life can be both thrilling and challenging. Embrace the opportunities for growth, as they pave the way for personal development and resilience.
2. Academic Vigilance: The academic demands of college are markedly different from high school. Staying diligent, attending lectures, and seeking guidance from professors were key to my success.
3. Social Engagement: Networking and forming connections with peers is essential. Engaging in campus activities, joining clubs, and participating in social events fostered a sense of belonging and created lasting friendships.
4. Coping with Homesickness: Homesickness is a common experience during the first year. I learned to manage homesickness by maintaining communication with my support network back home and immersing myself in campus life.
5. Navigating Independence: College provided a newfound sense of independence. I embraced this responsibility, honing my time management skills and making thoughtful decisions.
6. Seeking Support: Recognizing the value of available resources on campus, I sought academic assistance, counseling, and mentorship when needed. Seeking support allowed me to overcome challenges and stay on track.
7. Exploration of Majors: The first year presented an opportunity to explore different majors and potential career paths. I took advantage of a diverse range of classes to identify my true passions and areas of interest.
8. Embracing Diversity: Interacting with students from diverse backgrounds enriched my college experience. Embracing diversity facilitated a broader understanding of perspectives and cultures.
9. Balancing Academics and Well-being: Finding a balance between academics and personal well-being is crucial. Engaging in self-care practices and stress management techniques enabled me to maintain a healthy mindset.
10. Celebrating Milestones: Acknowledging accomplishments, no matter how small, instilled a sense of pride and motivation to persevere.
My first year in college was a time of significant growth and exploration. I embraced the challenges, seeking support when necessary, and celebrating the victories. It laid the foundation for the rest of my college journey and beyond, shaping me into the professional I am today. I encourage new college students to approach this transformative period with an open mind and a willingness to embrace every opportunity for learning and self-discovery.
1. Embrace New Challenges: The transition to college life can be both thrilling and challenging. Embrace the opportunities for growth, as they pave the way for personal development and resilience.
2. Academic Vigilance: The academic demands of college are markedly different from high school. Staying diligent, attending lectures, and seeking guidance from professors were key to my success.
3. Social Engagement: Networking and forming connections with peers is essential. Engaging in campus activities, joining clubs, and participating in social events fostered a sense of belonging and created lasting friendships.
4. Coping with Homesickness: Homesickness is a common experience during the first year. I learned to manage homesickness by maintaining communication with my support network back home and immersing myself in campus life.
5. Navigating Independence: College provided a newfound sense of independence. I embraced this responsibility, honing my time management skills and making thoughtful decisions.
6. Seeking Support: Recognizing the value of available resources on campus, I sought academic assistance, counseling, and mentorship when needed. Seeking support allowed me to overcome challenges and stay on track.
7. Exploration of Majors: The first year presented an opportunity to explore different majors and potential career paths. I took advantage of a diverse range of classes to identify my true passions and areas of interest.
8. Embracing Diversity: Interacting with students from diverse backgrounds enriched my college experience. Embracing diversity facilitated a broader understanding of perspectives and cultures.
9. Balancing Academics and Well-being: Finding a balance between academics and personal well-being is crucial. Engaging in self-care practices and stress management techniques enabled me to maintain a healthy mindset.
10. Celebrating Milestones: Acknowledging accomplishments, no matter how small, instilled a sense of pride and motivation to persevere.
My first year in college was a time of significant growth and exploration. I embraced the challenges, seeking support when necessary, and celebrating the victories. It laid the foundation for the rest of my college journey and beyond, shaping me into the professional I am today. I encourage new college students to approach this transformative period with an open mind and a willingness to embrace every opportunity for learning and self-discovery.
Thank you so much!
Livia