Varying class sizes
Class sizes vary depending on the college and the course. While many
college classes have fewer than 30 students, classes can have anywhere
from 15 to 200 students.
The need for critical thinking skills
In college you will be expected to understand and remember what you
read. You will also be asked to draw conclusions, form opinions, and
evaluate the ideas of others.
More emphasis on tests and less busywork
College homework assignments are often never checked or graded.
Students who get good grades, however, do all of their assignments
anyway. They know that at some point they’ll be tested on the material.
The need for personal responsibility
In college, you have a tremendous amount of freedom. Often attendance
is not taken but you are tested over material covered during class.
Therefore, you are responsible for your own academic progress.
Consequences for low grades
All colleges have academic standards that students must meet in order
to stay enrolled. Most colleges put students on academic probation if
their grades fall below a certain point. If these students don’t bring
their grades up by the end of the next term, they’re withdrawn from
college.
Less time in class and more emphasis on independent study
In college, you are expected to do most of your learning on your own.
The general rule is: For every one hour you spend in class, you should
spend two hours out of class reading, studying, and completing
assignments.
You initiate the action
Nothing happens until you act or ask. In college you initiate setting
up advising appointments, making changes, registering for classes and
applying for graduation. If you have questions, ask them!
Paying for your Education
In college you pay for your tuition, books, transportation, supplies, and special fees.
Use of Internet/WEB
Increasingly colleges are using the Internet as a means of
informing students. Students use the Internet to access their student
records, register for classes, check their degree progress, and examine
their financial aid package.
Diversity
Be prepared to interact with a wider range of people. In college, you
will have the opportunity to interact with students, staff and faculty
who vary in age, ethnicity, race, orientation, and religion. In the
classroom you will notice personality differences, differences in
learning and teaching styles, and differences in personal experiences.
