School Change Exchange

There are a number of Important differences to consider!

High School

*High school is mandatory

*Your time is structured by others

*Parents and teachers remind you of responsibilities and help set priorities

*Most classes are arranged for you

*The school year is typically 36 weeks long

*You may study about 0-2 hours/week, typically for last-minute test prep

*You are typically told what you need to learn from assigned readings

*Teachers check your completed work

*Teachers approach you if they believe you need assistance

*Teachers are often available before, during, or after class

*Teachers often remind you of assignments and due dates

*Testing is frequent and covers small amounts of material

*Teachers often arrange test dates to avoid conflict with school events

*Grades are given for most assigned work

*Grades are based on homework and tests

*Courses typically reward a “good faith” effort

College

*College is voluntary

*YOU manage your own time

*YOU balance responsibilities and set priorities

*You arrange your schedule

*The school year has two semesters

*You need to study 2-3 hours for each hour in class, including a lot of individual reading

*Lectures/assignments assume you have read/understand the assigned material

*Homework is not always checked, but it’s assumed you can do similar tasks on tests

*Professors typically expect you to initiate contact if you need assistance

*Professors usually want you to attend their scheduled office hours

*Professors expect you to read, save, and consult the course syllabus for due dates

*Testing is often infrequent and cumulative, covering large amounts of material

*Tests are scheduled without regard for other classes and outside activities

*Some required assignments aren’t graded

*Most grades are based on tests and papers

*While “good faith” is important, it won’t typically change the grade you earned