For elite high school students with strong study skills, the academic transition as a college freshman can be relatively seamless. However, less-motivated students or those who have gotten by on intelligence alone often struggle with heightened academic requirements. To succeed in college classes, students usually must keep up with reading, spend ample time in self-study sessions and get extra academic help from faculty and support services when needed. Some colleges have freshmen orientations and extended freshmen seminar classes to help new students focus on developing study skills and good academic habits.
Entering freshmen should consider the relative weight of their academic and social goals. Some have strong academic goals and consider getting a degree the top priority. Others want to balance grades with what they believe is the "college experience," complete with parties, drinking and active socialization. Social activities and skill development are important during college. However, drinking and drugs are among the potentially dangerous activities freshmen get involved with that can not only impede academic prowess, but also may lead to legal problems. Getting caught up early in the party scene and failing tests and classes can start a downward spiral that is hard to escape.
Ironically, what college freshmen often desire most can ultimately become one of their greatest challenges. High school seniors commonly dream of the chance to move out on their own and be free to make their own life choices. Many are unprepared for the responsibility and accountability that comes with independence. Doing laundry, cleaning up, setting the alarm, making positive life and school choices and avoiding social pitfalls are among the common challenges that come with independence. Being away from the family support system can be stressful and overwhelming, which affects mental and physical health as well as school performance.
Part of succeeding as an independent young adult is finding balance. College freshmen must balance study requirements, social activities and personal and social activities. Many also work jobs to pay for school. A 12-credit course load usually means that around 24 hours of outside of class study is needed. In essence, a full class schedule is akin to a full-time job. Communicating with an employer and trying to get flexible work hours is often challenging. Jobs and classes both require consistent attendance and strong performance. Some level of social involvement is important to avoid burnout and to develop supporting relationships.