Hi everyone! It’s Jordan again! Today, I was thinking about some of the things that have been a bit of an adjustment from high school to college so far.
In terms of academics, there are a lot of things that differ from high school to college. In high school, teachers gave you exact instructions on what to do each night, while in college, it is more up to you to figure out what needs to be done for each class and when. Your professor might hand you a packet right at the end of class with no context at all. However, don’t stress. Check the syllabus or ICON, and you will almost always find what you are looking for and directions on what to do. Taking notes can also be very different. In high school, notes were usually more guided, or you were given a note packet, while in college, you have a lot more freedom. Two methods that have worked for me are, first off, taking notes on a Google Doc on my computer, then going back through my notes and the PowerPoint and rewriting them on my computer. It may be a bit tedious, but it forces me to go back and review the content again. Another method that has worked for me is downloading the PowerPoint slides from class onto my iPad and taking notes directly on the PowerPoint. This way, I am not just copying word for word from the slides, but taking note of what the professor is actually saying. Also, familiarize yourself with Microsoft applications like Excel or Word. I know for me, everything in high school was Google, so switching to Microsoft applications was a bit of a challenge for me!
Social life in college can definitely be challenging. It is very different to have lots of different people with all different majors and from all different backgrounds. Especially in the first week, you will meet a lot of new people at welcome events, and you may get their Snapchat or Instagram, and then never hear from them again. But try not to stress about it; this is a big campus, and you will meet your people. It is sometimes difficult to see your peers making friends quickly, while you are not, but try to remind yourself that meeting new people can take time, and you may not make friends INSTANTLY when you get to college. Try to go to the engagement fair and find clubs you are interested in, and go to the meetings! It gives you a chance to meet new people who have the same interests as you! Review our student organizations list here as well to see what you can get involved in here at Iowa!
College can be difficult, especially in the beginning, but remember to give yourself grace and time to find your place here at Iowa!
– Jordan
