College offers new chances, obstacles

As a freshman in college, sharing an experience among students can be frustrating when forced to do things all on your own.

Knowing now that this is a time to become independent and begin getting things accomplished on your own is a big step into the “real world.”

The life of a college student is a huge change from that of a high school student.

In high school you had teachers who went over work with you and gave you weekly quizzes before the test to make sure you understood the material. In college you have to be in class and take a lot of notes because when it comes time for the test it’s all about how much you listened and studied.

Getting books, classes and campus emails are three of the main concerns of students on campus. And even getting used to having to find your way around campus to get these things accomplished can be a struggle.

It took a couple weeks to get used to having a minimal amount of help with these things.

The Bookstore has so many books for one class.

At times it is hard to figure out which books need to be purchased, especially when the teacher didn’t inform you of what to buy.

The lines are long when looking up books for classes. The Bookstore could be a little more organized and the staff could be more helpful. Not knowing which prerequisite classes are needed, and getting classes in general, was troubling as well.

After enrolling in classes I ran into a problem on the first day of school — not knowing that if I was accidentally late for class I’d be dropped from the section.

It would be easier on students if they would have some type of explanation on how college classes work.

Emailing teachers for information or sending in assignments was puzzling.

In high school, computer skills were not really needed to turn in assignments, so this change was a big one.

People have told me that their first semester was hard because they had little help. They said it was a tough learning experience.

There are many students who come to college their first semester who have absolutely no idea what is ahead of them.

Stepping into an environment where everything is different makes some students feel like they won’t survive for long.

Having some time to talk with a counselor is very helpful. They can help you with any questions you have around the school. It is a very good way to manage your responsibilities and to learn what needs to be done to be successful.

There are many frustrations being a freshman in college but there are also ways to get through it.

Don’t be afraid to use the resources around campus when they are needed.

At the start things are really confusing, but if you are determined to succeed you will push through.