4 answers
Angel
Student
Pasadena, California
2
Questions
Asked
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What can I expect from my upcoming college experience, and how can I as a student, better prepare for the challenges that lie ahead in my educational journey?
How can one change their college major or make changes in the future?
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4 answers
Miriam C Guevara
Government and Public Services Analyst
2
Answers
Blacksburg, Virginia
Updated
Miriam C’s Answer
For schools you are interested in, I recommend researching factors like student population size, clubs on campus, demographic representation, student to teacher ratio, support offered for students, and location of the school (big city vs. college town). Reading on things outside of school ranking or average SAT scores will give you a much better idea of what your university experience could be like.
For preparing for challenges ahead, a piece of advice I wish someone would have said early on to me is: you are your own advocate! Don't be afraid to ask questions and stay curious. As you navigate through your educational journey, I highly encourage you to rely on your support system, including professors, teaching assistants, academic advisors, friends, and family. Ask about their experience, listen for their perspective, and use it to come up with your solution to a challenge. For instance, changing your major is a bit different at every school, so your major/academic advisor can help answer how to change your major and what that means for your degree plan.
For preparing for challenges ahead, a piece of advice I wish someone would have said early on to me is: you are your own advocate! Don't be afraid to ask questions and stay curious. As you navigate through your educational journey, I highly encourage you to rely on your support system, including professors, teaching assistants, academic advisors, friends, and family. Ask about their experience, listen for their perspective, and use it to come up with your solution to a challenge. For instance, changing your major is a bit different at every school, so your major/academic advisor can help answer how to change your major and what that means for your degree plan.
Karina Santoro
Analytics Manager
2
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Karina’s Answer
What a thrilling time this is! Every person's journey through college is unique, shaped by a variety of factors. Some students might begin their academic journey at a community college, while others might dive straight into a 4-year university. There will be students who juggle work and studies, leaving little room for socializing, while others might have more free time. You'll find students who have moved from different places to attend the university, starting afresh with no familiar faces, and some who have grown up locally and are joining with a group of friends.
My piece of friendly advice? Dive in with an open heart and mind. If you can, join some clubs - it's a fantastic way to make new friends and maybe even uncover hidden passions. As for the hurdles you'll encounter, view them as opportunities for growth. We gain wisdom from both our successes and our failures. Don't hesitate to ask questions - not just to your professors, but to their teaching assistants as well. Take advantage of office hours. Collaborate with your peers during study sessions. Be smart about managing your time. Focus on truly understanding and learning the material, rather than just memorizing it.
Best of luck to you!
My piece of friendly advice? Dive in with an open heart and mind. If you can, join some clubs - it's a fantastic way to make new friends and maybe even uncover hidden passions. As for the hurdles you'll encounter, view them as opportunities for growth. We gain wisdom from both our successes and our failures. Don't hesitate to ask questions - not just to your professors, but to their teaching assistants as well. Take advantage of office hours. Collaborate with your peers during study sessions. Be smart about managing your time. Focus on truly understanding and learning the material, rather than just memorizing it.
Best of luck to you!
Juliana P.
Technology Consultant
24
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Juliana’s Answer
Hi Angel,
When it comes to your upcoming college experience, here are some things you can expect and tips to better prepare for the challenges ahead:
- Academic rigor: College coursework can be more demanding than high school. Expect increased workload, independent studying, and a faster pace of learning. Develop effective study habits, time management skills, and seek help from professors or tutoring services when needed.
- Diverse learning environment: College often brings together students from various backgrounds and perspectives. Embrace the opportunity to engage in discussions, collaborate with classmates, and broaden your horizons through exposure to diverse ideas and cultures.
- Independence and responsibility: College offers greater independence and requires self-discipline. Take responsibility for your academics, attendance, assignments, and managing your time effectively. Develop good organizational skills and prioritize your commitments.
- Campus resources and support: Colleges provide a wealth of resources to support your academic and personal growth. Familiarize yourself with academic advising, tutoring services, career centers, counseling services, and student organizations. Utilize these resources to enhance your college experience.
- Planning for the future: College is an opportunity to explore your interests and develop skills for your future career. Take advantage of internships, research opportunities, and networking events related to your field. Build a strong resume, attend career fairs, and connect with professionals in your desired industry to increase your chances of success post-graduation.
Regarding your question on changing your major: It's common for students to change their major during college. If you feel your current major is not the right fit, explore your options by researching other programs, talking to academic advisors, and taking introductory courses in potential new areas of interest. Be open to exploring different paths and make informed decisions about your major.
College is a transformative time that offers numerous opportunities for growth. Embrace new experiences, seek support when needed, and be proactive in shaping your educational journey. Stay adaptable, open to change, and willing to explore new paths as you discover your passions and goals.
Good luck!
When it comes to your upcoming college experience, here are some things you can expect and tips to better prepare for the challenges ahead:
- Academic rigor: College coursework can be more demanding than high school. Expect increased workload, independent studying, and a faster pace of learning. Develop effective study habits, time management skills, and seek help from professors or tutoring services when needed.
- Diverse learning environment: College often brings together students from various backgrounds and perspectives. Embrace the opportunity to engage in discussions, collaborate with classmates, and broaden your horizons through exposure to diverse ideas and cultures.
- Independence and responsibility: College offers greater independence and requires self-discipline. Take responsibility for your academics, attendance, assignments, and managing your time effectively. Develop good organizational skills and prioritize your commitments.
- Campus resources and support: Colleges provide a wealth of resources to support your academic and personal growth. Familiarize yourself with academic advising, tutoring services, career centers, counseling services, and student organizations. Utilize these resources to enhance your college experience.
- Planning for the future: College is an opportunity to explore your interests and develop skills for your future career. Take advantage of internships, research opportunities, and networking events related to your field. Build a strong resume, attend career fairs, and connect with professionals in your desired industry to increase your chances of success post-graduation.
Regarding your question on changing your major: It's common for students to change their major during college. If you feel your current major is not the right fit, explore your options by researching other programs, talking to academic advisors, and taking introductory courses in potential new areas of interest. Be open to exploring different paths and make informed decisions about your major.
College is a transformative time that offers numerous opportunities for growth. Embrace new experiences, seek support when needed, and be proactive in shaping your educational journey. Stay adaptable, open to change, and willing to explore new paths as you discover your passions and goals.
Good luck!
Shayla Enoch
Content Creator, Blogger, content writer
19
Answers
Herrin, Illinois
Updated
Shayla’s Answer
You can expect some fun and exciting new opportunities to learn all about new topics and subjects, as well as experience some challenges along the way! There of course will be bumps in the road your first time ain college, but keep trying; you'll get there