The jump from high school to college is a rather drastic one. Not only is it a new environment with new people, but it is also a new you. Whether you choose to get with the program or not is up to you, but one thing I’ve learned so far is that in true theatre fashion, the show must and will go on without you in it. Such a big change over the period of one summer can be stressful, and without the proper mindset to take on this new opportunity, most of us may sink and drown in the stress of college. That being said, here are some common misconceptions about college that both myself and my peers have fell victim to:
1. Pay attention
Since starting college, I’ve seen more people just up and leave lectures than I can count. Though I understand that life can be stressful, continuously giving up on lectures does more harm than good. It shows the professor that you have no interest in the subject and puts you in
the position of having to play catch up in the long run. So, while the seas are smooth, engage before it is too late.
2. Passing isn’t good enough
Who doesn’t love to get good grades? I for one love the feeling of accomplishment that comes with a good grade, but there’s more to college than getting good grades. It is a space to interact and market your most prized possession; yourself. Putting yourself up can come in many ways. It can be trying to get on a professor’s good side to show your dedication to a particular
subject, or joining a club with people who share the same interests as you.
3. You’re not alone
Lastly and most importantly, most of us college students tend to believe that the struggle to get through school is ours alone to bear. However, the more you get used to the environment, you will realize that everyone (regardless of if you are a first time or returning student) is just trying to get by in college, just like you. As a result of this, though we may feel alone, we never really are.
Keeping these in mind won’t take away the challenges associated with being a college student, but it will definitely defeat the sense of isolation that looms over a new college student.
