Surprises During the First Three Weeks of College

During this third week of classes I asked my freshman students what was the most surprising thing they had found during their first weeks in college.  Here are their answers:

• How much free time they had.  This was expressed by all three classes!
• How much information they were expected to go on line and get themselves.
• How fast the classes move.
• People are more diverse than at home.
• It is harder to make friends than they thought it would be. 
• Their priorities have changed – they are much more focused on their academics than in high school and are a much more serious student. 
• They are motivated to study.   They are partying and wasting time much less than they thought they would.
• The professors are nice, but sometimes make things difficult for the students.

I thought this was an interesting list and was pleased with the thoughtfulness and dedication of my students to their academics.

Regarding making friends, I suggested the students look into some organizations where they can meet people with similar interests.  I also cautioned them not to commit to a friendship too quickly just because they are looking for friends.  They have a lot of potential and they want friends who will enhance that, not tempt them down the wrong path!

The next blog will tackle the number one issue – the large amount of time when not in class and how to wisely manage it.
*****
First Semester Success: Learning Strategies and Motivation for Your First Semester (or Any Semester) of College, by Dr. Arden B. Hamer, is available at amazon.com, wordassociation.com and barnesandnoble.com.  Click on the upper right link.