Many college students are not sure what to expect from their classes upon arriving at college. The atmosphere is often much different and the subject matter is sometimes much more difficult. Studying and completing assignments often takes up a lot more time. The change in academic responsibility can be daunting for an unprepared college student. Fear may begin to set in as tasks begin to pile up. Students must find a way to balance their lives and get things done without letting the pressure overtake them.
College means a whole new set of responsibilities for many students. Away from home, many students must find ways to earn money to get by. This can mean taking on a part-time or full-time job. Balancing work, school and bills can be a challenging experience for many new college students. A lot of the free time that existed in high school disappears, giving way to a lot more stress.
Many students are comfortable with their social life after spending four years in the same high school. In college, students must meet an entire new cast of people, and many of them are going to be far different from those they are used to. Students in dorm rooms must acclimate themselves with their roommates and figure out a way to coexist with someone outside of their family. Making compromises and not giving in to pressures of college life can also weigh on a student's mind.
Upon going to college out of town, many students are thrown into a world of unfamiliarity. Students no longer have the comfort of living at home with their families and friends. Many things that may have been done for them at home are now their responsibility. Getting homework and other tasks done is now completely up to them. Even getting around can be difficult at first, as being in a new area can be confusing.