Linda @ The Cents of Money
Entering college is a significant milestone in a young adult’s life. Transitioning from high school to college can be exciting but challenging as students navigate new academic expectations, social circles, and responsibilities. While some habits may have worked well in high school, they may not be suitable for college life.
1. Procrastination
While procrastination may have worked in high school, it is not a habit that can be sustained in college. The academic workload is significantly higher, and there is no room for last-minute cramming. Time management is a vital skill that should be cultivated in college, and it’s better to start practicing it early.
2. Skipping Class
Skipping class was a norm in high school, but it can be costly in college. Each class is important, and missing one can lead to falling behind. Professors in college do not have the same hand-holding approach as high school teachers, and it is up to the student to keep up with the coursework.
3. Overdependence on Parents
Parents play a more significant role in a student’s life in high school, from waking them up for school to reminding them to do their homework. However, in college, students are expected to be more independent and take responsibility for their own lives. This means managing their finances and time and making decisions without constant parental guidance.
4. Lack of Sleep
In high school, students may have been able to function with just a few hours of sleep. However, the academic workload is more intense in college, and sleep is essential for academic success. Pulling all-nighters should be avoided, as it can lead to burnout and a decline in academic performance.
5. Being Afraid to Ask For Help
In high school, students may have hesitated to ask for help, fearing it would make them look incompetent. However, seeking help when needed in college is a sign of strength, not weakness. Various resources are available, such as tutoring services, counseling, and academic advisors, and students should not hesitate to utilize them.
6. Relying on Memorization
In high school, students may have been able to get by with memorization, but memorization alone is not sufficient in college. College courses require critical thinking, analysis, and synthesis of information. Students should focus on understanding the concepts rather than simply memorizing them.
7. Ignoring Study Breaks
In high school, students may have been able to study for hours without a break. However, in college, taking regular breaks is essential to avoid burnout and improve retention. Short breaks, such as a 10-15 minute walk or stretching, can help improve concentration and productivity.
8. Handing in Late Assignments
Being casual about assignment due dates was a common habit in high school, but it’s a recipe for disaster in college. College assignments are more complex and time-consuming, and you shouldn’t miss deadlines, resulting in lower grades and a stressful experience. Students should plan and work on assignments in advance to avoid last-minute panic.
9. Skipping Office Hours
Office hours are an excellent opportunity for students to clarify doubts, seek guidance, and build rapport with their professors. In high school, students may not have utilized this resource to its fullest extent. However, professors are often more than willing to help students in college, and skipping office hours can mean missed opportunities.
10. Not Networking
In high school, social circles were often based on proximity and shared interests. However, building a network in college is essential for career growth and personal development. Attending events, joining clubs, and interacting with classmates can help students make connections and develop new skills.
11. Not Reading the Required Material
It’s so easy to fall behind in your courses and be unprepared. One shortcut you shouldn’t take is not reading the material before class. Stay on top of your reading so that it is familiar to you when your professor teaches that section. Reading it beforehand will help you understand unfamiliar terminology, concepts, and examples your professor may not cover.
12. Not Paying Attention in Class
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For various reasons like boredom or lack of sleep, your mind may wander in class and miss critical information. At college, you need to be more responsible for your learning. Your teacher may have teased you in high school about your lack of attention, but your professor won’t do that. It’s often a sink-or-swim environment in college, and you want to get the best grade possible.
13. Not Taking Care of Yourself
You’re far from home and those who love you. It would be best to take care of yourself mentally and physically by getting enough sleep while maintaining a challenging schedule. Make sure you’re eating healthily and carrying good snacks in your backpack. Drink lots of water to avoid dehydration. Give yourself time to go to the gym, stretch, and exercise, which can help you manage your stress.
It’s reasonably common to become anxiety-ridden or depressed at college from all the demands on you. Visit the counseling center on campus to speak to someone professionally trained who will maintain your privacy. You’re the best person to take care of yourself!
12 Best College Life Hacks That Are Life-Changing
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Balancing academics, social life, and personal responsibilities in college can be a difficult juggling act. Fortunately, numerous life-changing college life hacks can help you navigate these challenges and maximize your college experience. Whether a first-year student or heading into senior year, these tips can help you streamline your workflow, save time and money, and achieve your goals.
10 Affordable Hobbies You Can Pick Up in College That Could Fill Your Pocket Too
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College is an exciting time full of new experiences and opportunities but it can be financially challenging. Finding time and room for hobbies and interests in your budget can be difficult between tuition, textbooks, and living expenses. However, having a hobby can be a great way to relax, unwind, and enrich your college experience. The good news is that plenty of affordable hobbies you can pick up in college won’t break the bank and potentially earn some money as a side gig.
17 Excessively Weird Gen Z Trends We Find Challenging To Understand
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Every generation has its distinction despite overlapping with other generations. The young of all ages act feisty and aggressive compared to their parents and grandparents, who have more life experiences than their underlings in their teens and 20s. However, Generation Z, having been raised in a digital world since they were in diapers, is shaping their culture in ways that appear excessively weird to the rest of us and challenging to understand.
College Graduates: Avoid These 13 Common Money Mistakes in Your 20s and Beyond
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Congratulations on graduating college and landing your first job! It’s an exciting and scary new chapter all rolled into one. You’ll make some serious money for the first time in your life, but you’ll also be responsible for some adult-sized bills.
Before signing a lease for an apartment or purchasing a new car, avoid the most common money mistakes college graduates make. We have assembled a list of blunders to steer you towards a financially fit future.
10 Things Millennials and Gen Z Surprisingly Copied From Boomers
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How we live, dress, and interact with the world constantly evolves. Each generation brings its unique perspectives and preferences, yet there are times when younger generations find inspiration in the habits and choices of their predecessors. Millennials and Gen Z, known for their distinct characteristics, have surprisingly borrowed a few things from the Baby Boomer generation.
This article was produced and syndicated by The Cents of Money.
Source: Reddit.
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With a passion for investing and personal finance, I began The Cents of Money to help and teach others. My experience as an equity analyst, professor, and mom provide me with unique insights about money and wealth creation and a desire to share with you.