College will open the doors to personal growth, many social experiences, and various career opportunities. Yet, issues can arise that might affect your education, outlook, or enjoyment, but every problem has a solution.
Make the most of every experience by entering college with realistic expectations. Here are five facts you should know about college.
- You Can Test Out Your Desired Career
Forward-thinking students test out their careers before finishing college. It is smart to learn if you love your specialty before graduating, as you could change majors before it is too late.
For example, you could secure an internship or volunteer during the summer, which could help you identify if you’d love a career as a journalist, accountant, or marketer. If you didn’t enjoy the experience, you could switch majors the next semester.
- It’s Important to Write Well
Writing well isn’t restricted to English, journalism, or creative writing majors. Every college student must improve their writing skills to articulate insights, opinions, and facts on various papers and tests. Also, you may need to produce high-quality reports, proposals, pitches, letters, and emails throughout your career.
Don’t underestimate the importance of good writing at college. Strive to break down complex ideas into short, straightforward sentences, and work on your spelling and grammar, to appear professional and eloquent.
- Transferring College is an Option
If you feel torn between colleges, you might worry about making the wrong decision for your education, career, and general happiness. Yet, you might feel relieved to learn that transferring colleges is an option, and approximately 700,000 students do so every year.
Most colleges are open to transfer applications each semester, so you will not need to wait too long to start afresh in a setting that suits your personality and goals. Of course, different colleges will have specific transfer requirements you must bear in mind. For instance, you can find out more about the University of Alabama’s transfer requirements and deadlines at campusreel.org.
- There is a Difference Between Memorizing and Learning
Many college students make the mistake of believing they’ll pass every test by memorizing materials. However, there is a big difference between learning and memorizing.
Memorizing information will cause you to forget about various facts or insights once a test or course is over. Instead, you must develop an understanding of the material, which will help you retain the information and strengthen your knowledge throughout your career.
- Cheaper Textbooks are Available
Did you know the average college spends $600 on textbooks per year? Many college students might not realize it is possible to find used books in thrift stores and online marketplaces, such as eBay and Craigslist.
Also, it might be a cheaper alternative to rent textbooks from Amazon, Chegg, or Campus Book Rentals, to name a few options. However, bear in mind that some professors may require you to own the latest edition of a textbook, which you must remember before buying or renting a book.
