transition from high school to college essay

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190 Good Transition Words for Essays

August 23, 2023

Essay writing consists of two primary procedures: coming up with the content we want to include and structuring that content. These procedures might take place in either order or they could occur simultaneously. When writing an essay it is important to think about the ways that content and structure complement one another. The best essays join these two elements in thoughtful ways. Transition words for essays (including for college essays) are some of our most primary tools when it comes to structuring a piece of writing.

When beginning an essay it is often recommended to begin with a messy first draft. The purpose of this draft is to get everything out on the page. You should put down as many ideas and trajectories as you can without worrying too much about phrasing or whether they will make it into the final draft. The key here is to be loose—to get ahead of our self-editors and expel everything we can from our minds.

List of Good Transition Words for Essays (Continued)

While this is a good strategy for beginning an essay it will likely leave you unsure how everything fits together. This is where transition words come in. As you will see in this list (which is necessarily incomplete) the range of transition words for essays is vast. Each transition word implies a different relation, often in subtle ways. After accumulating content, the next step is to figure out how the elements fit together towards an overall goal (this could be but is not necessarily an “argument”). Consulting this list of transition words for essays can provide a shortcut for determining how one piece might lead into another. Along with transition words, rhetorical devices and literary devices are other tools to consider during this stage of essay writing.

Transition Words for College Essays

While this list will be a useful tool for all types of essay writing it will be particularly helpful when it comes to finding the right transition words for college essays . The goal of a college essay is to give a strong overall sense of its author in the tight space of 650 words. As you might imagine, it’s not easy to encompass a life or convey a complex personality in such a space. When writing a college essay you are working with a huge amount of potential content. Students often want to squeeze in as much as they can. To this end, transition words for college essays are essential tools to have at our disposal.

Here is our list of transition words for college essays and other essays. It is organized by the different types of transition words/phrases and their functions. While this organization should be convenient, keep in mind that there’s plenty of overlap. Many of these words can function in multiple ways.

1) Additive Transitions

These words function in an additive manner, accumulating content to build upon what has already been stated. They can be used to construct an argument or establish a scene through the accumulation of details.

• Additionally
• In addition to
• Furthermore
• Not to mention
• In all honesty
• To tell the truth
• Not only…but also
• As a matter of fact
• To say nothing of
• What’s more
• Alternatively
• To go a step further

 2) Comparative Transitions (Similarity)

  These transition words draw a parallel or bring out a similarity between images or ideas. They can be used not only in a straightforward sense but also to establish relations of similarity between objects or ideas that might appear to be dissonant.

• In the same way
• In a similar vein
• Along the lines of
• In the key of

 3) Comparative Transitions (Difference)

  While also functioning comparatively, the following words demonstrate difference between ideas or images. These transition words are useful when it comes to establishing contrasting points of view, an important component of any argument.

• On the other hand
• On the contrary
• In contrast to
• In contradiction
• Nevertheless
• Nonetheless
• In any event
• In any case
• In either event

4) Sequential Transitions

  The following are particularly effective transition words for college essays. They will allow you to order ideas chronologically or in a sequence, providing a sense of continuity over time. This is particularly useful when an essay leans into something more creative or involves telling a story.

• Subsequently
• At the same time
• Concurrently
• In the beginning
• At the start
• At the outset
• Off the bat

5) Spatial Transitions

Rather than organizing ideas or images in regards to sequence, these transitions indicate spatial relationships. They are particularly useful when it comes to painting a scene and/or describing objects, but they can also be used metaphorically. Consider, for example, how you might use the transition, “standing in […’s] shadow.”

• Standing in […’s] shadow
• In front of
• In the middle
• In the center
• To the left
• To the right
• On the side
• Adjacent to
• Around the bend
• On the outskirts
• In the distance
• On the horizon
• In the foreground
• In the background
• Underground
• Through the grapevine

 6) Causal Transitions

These transition words for essays indicate cause and effect relationships between ideas. They will be particularly useful when you are structuring a logical argument, i.e. using logos as a mode of persuasion . Causal transitions are an important element of academic, legal and scientific writing.

• Accordingly
• Resultingly
• As a result
• Consequently
• In consequence
• As a consequence
• For this reason
• So much that
• Granting that
• That being the case
• Under those circumstances
• With this in mind
• For the purpose of
• For all intents and purposes
• In the event that
• In the event of
• In light of
• On the condition that
• To the extent that

7) Examples/Illustration/Supporting Transition

  These transition words for college essays can be used to introduce supporting evidence, emphasis, examples, and clarification. There is some overlap here with additive transitions and causal transitions. These transitions are also useful when it comes to building an argument. At the same time, they can signal a shift into a different linguistic register.

• For example
• For instance
• In other words
• As an illustration
• To illustrate
• To put it differently
• To put it another way
• That is to say
• As the evidence illustrates
• It’s important to realize
• It’s important to understand
• It must be remembered
• To demonstrate
• For clarity’s sake
• To emphasize
• To put it plainly
• To enumerate
• To speak metaphorically

8) Conclusory Transitions

These transition words for essays serve to bring an idea or story to a close. They offer a clear way of signaling the conclusion of a particular train of thought. They might be followed by a summary or a restatement of an essay’s argument. In this way they also provide emphasis, setting the reader up for what is about to come.

• In conclusion
• To summarize
• To put it succinctly
• To this end
• At the end of the day
• In the final analysis
• By and large
• On second thought
• On first glance
• That’s all to say
• On the whole
• All things considered
• Generally speaking

List of Good Transition Words for Essays (Final Thoughts)

Even when elements appear to be disparate on first glance, transition words are a great tool for giving your essay a smooth flow. They can also create surprising juxtapositions, relationships, and equivalences. The way a reader will understand a transition word depends on the context in which they encounter it.

Individual words and phrases can be used in a wide variety of ways, ranging from the literal to the figurative to the colloquial or idiomatic. “Through the grapevine” is an example of the colloquial or idiomatic. When we encounter this phrase we don’t interpret it literally (as hearing something “through” a grapevine) but rather as hearing news secondhand. There are, of course, a vast number of idioms that are not included in this list but can also function as transitional phrases.

This list of transition words for college essays (and really any form of writing you might be working on) is a resource that you can return to again and again in your life as a writer. Over years of writing we tend to fall into patterns when it comes to the transition words we use. Mixing things up can be exciting both as a writer and for your readers. Even if you don’t choose to stray from your trusted transitions, considering the alternatives (and why they don’t work for you) can offer a deeper understanding of what you are trying to say.

List of Good Transition Words for Essays (An Exercise)

As an exercise in self-understanding, you may want to try highlighting all of the transition words in a piece of your own writing. You can then compare this to the transition words in a piece of writing that you admire. Are they using similar transitions or others? Are they using them more or less often? What do you like or dislike about them? We all use transition words differently, creating different tonal effects. Keeping an eye out for them, not only as a writer but also as a reader, will help you develop your own aesthetic.

• College Essay

Emmett Lewis

Emmett holds a BA in Philosophy from Vassar College and is currently completing an MFA in Writing at Columbia University. Previously, he served as a writing instructor within the Columbia Artists/Teachers community as well as a Creative Writing Teaching Fellow at Columbia, where he taught poetry workshops. In addition, Emmett is a member of the Poetry Board at the Columbia Journal , and his work has been published in HAD , Otoliths , and Some Kind of Opening , among others.

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• Your Guide to Transition from High School to College
• Attention/ADHD
• Posted on February 21, 2024
• By Christine
• In Articles , Attention/ADHD , College Readiness , Executive Function

The transition from high school to college is a significant milestone, marking a period of personal growth and newfound independence. This guide aims to provide a detailed overview of the key differences between high school and college life, offering insights for students and parents navigating this transformative period.

Academic Adjustments from High School to College

• Study Expectations: College courses often require a deeper level of independent learning compared to high school. Expect an increase in reading, research, and self-paced studying.
• Faculty Dynamics: Professors in college guide discussions and expect active participation, fostering an environment of critical thinking and intellectual engagement.
• Evaluation Criteria: College grading systems often extend beyond mere test scores. Essays, projects, and class participation significantly contribute to final grades, emphasizing the importance of consistency and critical thinking.

Check out these resources to help prepare you for these academic adjustments in college. Your Guide To College Disability Services And Accommodations or Self-Adovocy Skill: How to Write an Email to Your Professor.

Social Transformations

• Building Connections: The responsibility of forming your social circle in college rests on your shoulders. Engage in clubs, attend events, and initiate conversations. Embrace the diversity around you.
• Living Arrangements: Whether it’s dorms or off-campus housing, managing chores, budgets, and social dynamics with roommates or landlords becomes a part of your daily life.
• Social Activities: College offers a vibrant social scene, but it’s important to balance fun with academic commitments and healthy habits.

Financial Considerations

• Cost: College is a significant investment. Tuition, housing, and living expenses are considerably higher than in high school, making budgeting a crucial skill.
• Financial Aid: Scholarships, grants, and loans can help bridge the financial gap. It’s important to explore options early, understand loan terms, and budget wisely to avoid debt.
• Part-time Jobs: Balancing work and studies can be a juggling act. Effective time management becomes essential to manage academics, income, and well-being.

Check out this article on How to Pay for College, your guide to financial aid and scholarships , or learn about Developing Your Financial Literacy .

Health and Well-being

• Stress and Mental Health: College presents new challenges including academic pressure, social changes, and personal growth. Prioritize self-care, utilize university mental health services, and build healthy coping mechanisms.
• Sleep and Diet: Late nights and junk food might seem tempting, but maintaining healthy habits is crucial. Regular sleep, nutritious meals, and exercise fuel your brain and body for academic success.
• Independence and Responsibility: You’re in charge of your well-being now. Manage your sleep schedule, and dietary choices, and seek medical help when needed. Remember, your health is your biggest asset.

Transitioning from high school to college is a multifaceted process that involves academic, social, and personal changes. It’s a time of exploration, growth, and learning. By understanding these differences and preparing for them, students and parents can navigate this transition more smoothly, setting the stage for a successful and enriching college experience.

Learn more about how we coach students to prepare for their transition from high school to college through our summer course, Beyond High School (BHS). Beyond High School is a 2-week college readiness course designed to equip students with a set of essential executive functioning skills needed for successful navigation of college life. Watch our trailer to discover more!

Written by BJ McIntyre, M.A Education

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Supporting Students in the Transition from High School to College Writing

The transition from high school to college writing can be important and challenging for students and teachers. In my experiences teaching high school and college-level English classes, I have noticed both commonalities and differences in the expectations for writing at each level. While students are taught to analyze and synthesize ideas in both high school and college, college instructors often expect students to produce deeper, more sophisticated textual interpretations and to not only synthesize existing views but also contribute new perspectives on a topic. Below I offer suggestions to help high school teachers prepare students to more confidently transition from high school to college writing.

Teach Students to Adapt Their Writing to Various Purposes, Genres, and Audiences

In college, students are often asked to write in different genres for a variety of purposes and audiences. To prepare students for this work, high school teachers can encourage them to write for audiences beyond the teacher and peers, such as community organizations or local officials, and to adapt their writing to various situations. For example, while many high school English classes emphasize literary analysis, teachers might also integrate rhetorical analysis, or the interpretation of rhetorical appeals such as ethos. An essay focusing on ethos, for instance, might examine an author’s credibility and use of evidence in advancing the essay’s claims. In particular, rhetorical analysis, a genre that is valued in many college composition classrooms, not only invites students to adapt their writing to a different situation but also teaches students to become aware of how authors write for different purposes and audiences. In addition, while writing in high school may mainly occur in English and history classes, incorporating writing across the curriculum can prepare students to compose across academic disciplines in college.

Furthermore, high school teachers can expand students’ genre awareness. Students may, as a result of standardized curricula and testing, categorize a piece of writing as an argument or an analysis, as a personal narrative or a research paper, rather than as a combination of these genres. Teachers might help students think more flexibly about genre. For instance, while teaching a research-based argument essay in a first-year college writing class, I invite students to combine elements of personal narrative, primary-source data collected from surveys and interviews, and scholarly research to construct an argument about a topic of their choice related to the local or campus community. Even though I ask students to consider the personal motivations behind their research questions, students are often surprised to find that they are allowed and even encouraged to interweave personal and textual evidence and narrative and research elements into one essay. Asking students to integrate different kinds of writing in one paper can inspire them to expand their conceptions of genre. In this way, teachers can help students recognize that instead of the form dictating the content, an essay’s purpose and audience shape its evidence, structure, and style—and hence its genre.

Inspire Students to Enter and Respond to Larger Academic Conversations

The composition scholars Nancy Sommers and Laura Saltz describe the transition from high school to college writing as a “paradigm shift” in which students cross a “threshold” from learning and restating information toward questioning ideas and entering larger conversations (125, 139). Beyond summarizing secondary sources, students are expected to advance their own claims that may differ from or extend established views. One way high school teachers can introduce students to the notion of the academic conversation is to make the concept come to life in the classroom. While teaching first-year college writing, I ask my students to read Mark Gaipa’s essay “Breaking into the Conversation: How Students Can Acquire Authority for their Writing.” In the essay, Gaipa illustrates the academic conversation using the metaphor of a ballroom in which critics are discussing a topic. He offers strategies such as “piggybacking,” or applying critics’ ideas to a new aspect of the conversation, and “leapfrogging,” or identifying gaps in existing ideas, as ways for students to extend critics’ claims (428, 429). Using Gaipa’s essay, I incorporate a class activity in which students walk around the classroom, or “ballroom,” and consider their classmates’ and their own views on the question, What is the moral of “Superman and Me,” by Sherman Alexie? Students then consider how their own essays might contribute new ideas to the conversation on the topic they have chosen. High school teachers can incorporate similar activities as a way to help students develop original claims based on analysis or research. For example, as Alice Yang writes in her Style Center blog post, “Making the Transition from High School to College Essay Writing,” students are expected to engage critically with scholarly sources while writing literary analyses in college. To support students’ critical thinking, teachers can encourage students to determine how their interpretations of a text might expand existing arguments. More broadly, inspiring students to enter the conversation can stimulate their critical thinking and invite them to explore issues of interest.

Encourage Students to Reflect on Their Writing Choices, Processes, and Goals

Finally, it is important to offer students time to reflect on their writing progress. By reflecting on their writing at various stages of a draft or unit, students can become more aware of their writing choices and processes, and this awareness can then inform their future writing as they learn to monitor and evaluate their work and adapt it to various contexts. Teachers can incorporate purposeful reflection through journal entries or portfolios. For example, while teaching high school and college writing, I ask students to write in their journals at the beginning of each class as a way to reflect on their writing progress and goals. Encouraging reflection can enable students to develop their understandings of texts and to stimulate further progress in their own writing. In this way, writing and thinking can interact with each other in shaping students’ growth.

In offering these suggestions, I recognize that these strategies might be hard to implement, since high school teachers are often faced with demands, including preparing students for standardized testing. Moreover, schools may have their own particular goals, resources, and needs, making it difficult for teachers to change the curriculum. Nevertheless, I hope that these ideas offer teachers a step toward supporting students to navigate the differing expectations of secondary and postsecondary school writing. Ultimately, our grander aim is to support students’ continued development as writers throughout their academic, professional, and personal journeys across time and space.

Works Cited

Gaipa, Mark. “Breaking into the Conversation: How Students Can Acquire Authority for Their Writing.” Pedagogy: Critical Approaches to Teaching Literature, Language, Composition,  and Culture , vol. 4, no. 3, Fall 2004, pp. 419–37.

Sommers, Nancy, and Laura Saltz. “The Novice as Expert: Writing the Freshman Year.” College  Composition and Communication , vol. 56, no. 1, Sept. 2004, pp. 124–49.

Yang, Alice. “Making the Transition from High School to College Essay Writing.” The MLA Style  Center , 18 Sept. 2018, style.mla.org/high-school-versus-college-writing/.

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Search the site, search suggestions, five tips on how to transition from high school to college.

Whenever I'm answering questions from prospective students a topic that always comes up is the transition from high school to college.

Is it hard? What can I do to have an easy transition period? How was your transition? The reality is that there isn't necessarily a right or wrong way to transition to college. Everyone is coming from a different background so naturally they will adapt in different ways. But, here are some tips to help make your transition a smooth one.  

1. Ask for Help A lot of Harvard students are too scared to ask for help once they arrive on campus. I mean we are all super geniuses. We got basically straight As in high school. Why would we need help?

The reality is that you are engaging with new academic material here at Harvard and because of that you're going to struggle and you may need help. There's nothing wrong with you. Everyone struggles with their academics here, trust me. My freshman year I was riding the struggle bus. Honestly, I was probably driving it because I was struggling so hard with certain subjects, particularly economics. Because of that, I knew I needed to seek help. So, I asked friends for help with problem sets, sought out a tutor, and went to office hours when I could. Never be afraid to ask for help! 

2. Don't be afraid to fail  First and foremost, I'm not talking about failing in terms of getting an F. The reality is that if you actually do your work you will probably not fail. But, a lot of students tend to get really worried when out of nowhere they get a B in a class, which can seem like a failure for students. It's like wait, what I never had this grade before. This isn't something I do. I mean I'm a straight A student! What's happening?

The reality is you might get a B or two or even three. It happens. Like I said earlier, you are engaging with new material here at Harvard and sometimes you will struggle with it. So, don't freak out if you suddenly get this ominous looking B. As long as you tried your best, there's really nothing more you can do. 

3. Explore new subjects so you can learn Another thing that students forget about is actually taking the time to learn. When you're in college you can finally take classes simply for the sake of learning. You can engage with new material and learn some pretty cool stuff. So far I've taken classes about comparative politics, microeconomics, social movements, ancient Greek novels, discussing modern day feminism and so much more. College is the time for you to try something new. Hey you may know exactly what you want to concentrate in and do later on in your life, but why not try a new subject. You may be a Molecular and Cellular Biology concentrator, but maybe you're interested in talking about gender so you take a class in Studies of Women, Gender, and Sexuality. 

You should always strive to try and learn something new because it can be fun. However, trying a new subject doesn't mean you will automatically enjoy it. I can tell you for a fact that to this day I still don't enjoy Economics nor am I truly interested in Comparative Politics. But, I am proud of myself for trying them out and don't entirely regret it. So don't forget to actually learn and try new things when picking your classes. 

4. Do what you like, not just to boost your resume For me, a lot of high school was focused on doing everything right so I could get into college. Sometimes I didn't take the time to do things just because I wanted to do them. I would think about what looked best on my resume or what extracurricular would be the best on that college application. I think it's very easy to get caught up in trying to do all the "right" extracurriculars and classes. Concentrating in what's going to give you a job. Doing that extracurricular that supposedly looks really good on your resume but you're just not that into it. In the process, you just forget to just enjoy yourself. Take that class because you like it. Do that cool extracurricular. Even if they aren't the stereotypical courses or activities people do, odds are you will be able to earn the marketable skills that look good on a resume without having to do something you dislike. 

5.Learn to take time for yourself  A very important skill to develop is learning how to take a step back from everything and de-stress. In college, so much can be going on that sometimes you want a chance to breathe. Maybe that means not going to that basketball game or not going out on Friday night to instead stay in and watch Netflix or whatever you do to de-stress. I know I had to learn how to take some time for myself to do things I love. Sometimes I'll decide to do my homework later (wouldn't recommend doing this often ;)) and lie in my bed and read a book. Other times, I'll get out my iPad and watch an episode of Netflix. Sometimes, I'll put in my headphones and dance around my room. It's really about doing whatever can help you de-stress and just enjoy yourself. So learn how to take those 5 minutes, 10 minutes, or even an hour to just relax. 

I hope these tips will help you as you continue through your high school career and eventually transition to college. You might mess up along the way, which is completely normal. Just try to enjoy it as much as you can!   

Gabriela Class of '18 Alumni

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The Transition from High School to University Writing

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To meet the expectations of university writing, you will need to unlearn rules you may have learned in high school. Those rules may have helped you to plan and write your essays by providing a ready-made structure you could fit your ideas into. But continuing to rely on these rules will limit your freedom to develop more sophisticated arguments and a more mature style.

Here are some important differences between high school rules and university expectations:

Essay Structure

Thesis Statement

Introduction and Conclusion

Presentation

Here are the overall differences between the two institutions in philosophy and approach:

How to Navigate the High School to College Transition

• Sasha Chada
• March 11, 2022

Table of Contents

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The transition from high school to college is one of the largest changes you will experience. You will likely be living on your own for the first time, in a new location, surrounded by new people, and learning new things at a break-neck pace. This often feels overwhelming, and new students sometimes struggle to make this transition smoothly. 

We can’t make the transition for you, but in this article, we’ll give you some tricks and tips to make your high school to college transition go smooth and set you up for the future. We’ll discuss academics, your social life, and logistics, and let you know what you can start doing now to make sure you succeed once you get to college. Let’s get started with some high school to college transition tips!

Academic Transitions

College is about learning above all. Four years of classes, exams, research, and other experiences to give you the knowledge you need to thrive as an adult. Some of these are hard skills, and some take the form of new methods of examining the world, and new ways to approach and solve problems. Here are our top tips for making your academic experience a good one:

1. Sign up for classes that fulfill requirements and interest you.

A common piece of advice is that you should devote your first years to only taking courses that fulfill core college requirements. However, this is nearsighted. While it may be nice to finish all your prerequisites early, it can also make your first two years of college a complete drag.

Instead, create a course list every semester that includes a good mix of prerequisites and courses that interest you. Also, make sure to look out for courses that combine both! If you want to major in psychology, for instance, it is possible that the prerequisite science courses you need to take for your major line up with prerequisite courses that your college requires.

2. Plan out your schedule ahead of time.

You will get a syllabus from each course you take, sometimes even before the first class. Use these, and your downtime in the first week of classes, to plan out your exams, major assignments, and deadlines throughout the semester. Knowing when everything is due will let you keep on track.

Make sure you schedule a time to study and relax alike. Too much studying can cause burnout, while too little can see your grades suffer. You may need to experiment to find the balance that works for you, but know that you will need both.

3. Complete your coursework strategically.

There are some periods in college that are particularly busy. Notables are midterms and finals, which mark the middle and end of the semester respectively. Rather than thinking you have to do everything during this period perfectly, strategically rank your work based on (1) that which has the greatest impact on your grade, and (2) that which is most feasible for you to complete.

Once you have finished your work, it can be tempting to use your sudden free time to focus on anything other than school. However, instead of simply giving up all of your available time to some other pursuit, allocate a portion of this time to catching up on upcoming assignments.

You can begin working on these skills now by mapping out the end of your senior year. Take some time to experiment and see what methods work best for you. You likely already have some experience managing projects and homework from your time in high school, but now you can refine your skills, without the stress that college will bring. Mastering skills in a low-stress environment helps you use them instinctively when you transition to a higher-stress one.

Social Transitions

While you can and should maintain your friendships from high school, you will meet many new people in college and have many opportunities to make new friends and connections. Trying to manage a social life while keeping up with classes can be challenging, so here are our top tips for socially transitioning to college:

1. Networking is just socialization.

At its core, networking is the simple fact that people enjoy working alongside and interacting with friendly and open people. You don’t have to be something you’re not, but work on meeting and interacting with people. Valuable connections often come from unexpected places, and lifelong friends or business partners are often made in college.

2. Look for mentoring opportunities.

You should look for mentors in graduate students, faculty, instructors, and researchers, while also looking for opportunities to serve as a mentor yourself. While the latter of these likely won’t come in your first year, there are many opportunities for advanced students and upperclassmen to get involved as TAs, graders, or researchers.

You should seek mentors of your own to increase your understanding, to pick through bright minds at the forefront of their field. This also ties into the networking tip above; making friends with professors always pays off. You should seek to mentor in turn because being able to teach and explain a subject clearly is the final step in mastering a subject. It’s also good to pay forward the help you have received.

3. Get used to not being the best.

You were likely exceptional in high school, if not the smartest in your class. This will not be the case in college. Top colleges gather the best high schoolers from across the country and around the world. Everyone there is exceptionally intelligent, motivated, and skilled in some way (though some of the people you meet will make you question this).

This is a great opportunity, but can also cause serious culture shock. You will be able to learn almost as much from your peers as your professors, and the discussions and debates you will get into are a key tenet of a classical liberal arts education. You will have to get used to not always being the brightest in your classes, however, and not always being the first to know the answer.

Once you have decided where you are going to college, you should begin looking into specific clubs you want to join, or professors you might want to work with. As housing decisions come out, you will be able to get in contact with your roommates. You don’t need to become best friends right away, but discussing who will contribute what to the room before you move in will reduce friction, and help you get to know each other naturally.

Logistical Concerns

Along with classes and socializing, there are many logistical concerns associated with your transition to college. We’ll give you some of our top tips to prepare for the transition and to ensure that you don’t let anything fall by the wayside.

1. Learn life skills now.

Life skills, like all skills, take time and effort to master. You should start small now, and get into the habit of doing your own laundry, keeping your own space clean, and learning to cook meals. You don’t have to be independent right away, but practicing these skills while you still have a support network will save you from trouble later. Don’t be the guy in my dorm who asked his date to help him do his laundry.

2. Pay attention to your health.

As an adult, medical professionals won’t release information to your parents without your say-so. Find a General Practitioner MD (not a pediatrician!) around your school, and give them a state-specific copy of a Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA) Release of Information form so that your parents are able to help in case of emergency.

Start carrying a health insurance card along with your ID. Most colleges also require students to have health insurance. You are able to stay on your parents’ plan until you are 26, so many of you can be covered through this. If not, many colleges offer health insurance to their students at a reasonable cost.

3. Learn how the meal plan works.

Every college administers its meal plans differently, and most schools have several separate meal plans you can sign up for. Figure out which plan works best for you, and then make sure you understand it. You don’t want to be caught running out of food partway through your first semester.

4. Set a budget.

It’s very tempting to go out every weekend or to order out for food every night. Everyone at college comes from different backgrounds and has to set their own budget. You are in charge of yours. Figure out early how much money you are willing to spend each semester, and on what. Your priorities are your own, but you should set them and stick by them.

5. Figure out transportation.

Some of you will bring cars to college, others will rely on walking and public transportation, and others still will embrace bicycles and scooters. Figure out now what your plan is for getting around campus. Some schools have massive campuses (like A&M), and getting from one side to the other can be an adventure if your classes are scheduled excitingly.

If you are going to a school in a large city, look at what public transportation options are available. These are often more feasible than cars, especially if you are living in dorms.

If you do bring your car to school, see what the options are for student parking. Schools in urban areas often have extremely limited or no parking for students, while schools with more land will often charge for parking, or require a pass to use campus lots. This is something to consider before you arrive on campus. We have information on schools’ parking policies in our university guides .

For all of these, you should make your arrangements before you arrive on campus. Learn relevant skills, do the needed research, and prepare yourself to live on your own. You still have a safety net at home, which makes this the perfect time to learn necessary life skills. 

Final Thoughts: High School to College Transition

We’re very happy to have helped so many students get into college this year, and look forward to seeing all the amazing things they will go on to accomplish. We know the transition can be difficult, and we hope that this advice will help you make your own successful transition to college.

If you are just now starting to think about applying to college, and want to know how we can help you on your way, schedule a free consultation with us. We’ve helped hundreds of students get into great schools, and are always happy to hear from you.

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Download our "guide to everything," a 90-page pdf that covers everything you need to know about the college admission process., more to explore.

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Home — Essay Samples — Education — High School — Overcoming Adversity: Transition From High School to College

Overcoming Adversity: Transition from High School to College

• Categories: College High School

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Words: 1640 |

Published: Feb 9, 2023

Words: 1640 | Pages: 4 | 9 min read

Works Cited

• Conley, David T. Getting Ready for College, Careers, and the Common Core : What Every Educator Needs to Know . First edition., Jossey-Bass, 2014.
• Radcliffe, Rich A., and Beth Bos. “Strategies to Prepare Middle School and High School Students for College and Career Readiness.”
• The Clearing House: A Journal of Educational Strategies, Issues and Ideas, vol. 86, no. 4, Taylor & Francis Group, July 2013, pp. 136–41, doi:10.1080/00098655.2013.782850.
• Venezia, Andrea, and Laura Jaeger. “Transitions from High School to College.” The Future of Children, vol. 23, no. 1, Princeton University, Apr. 2013, pp. 117–36, doi:10.1353/foc.2013.0004.

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How to Handle the Transition from High School to College

You’re finally free from the rules and curfews imposed by your parents and you’re ready to spread your wings! This is an exciting and scary time in your life and for most people, the transition from high school to college is the biggest transition they make in their life up until this point. Before you leave the nest without looking back, think about what you’ll do to help yourself make it a smooth transition.

Even if you think you’re fully prepared and you’ve been dreaming of this for years, you’ll likely struggle at least a little bit with the college transition. One of the things that makes this so difficult for many people is that there is much more to this transition than school.

You’re away from your parents for the first time, you suddenly have complete independence, you’re potentially away from all of your friends, you’re sharing a very small room with a stranger… the way you’ve lived your life for the past 18 years completely changes.

If you don’t have the proper support, you can struggle a lot with the transition. The dropout rate of college freshmen in the United States is a staggering 30%. Many colleges now have transition programs in place to help freshmen make a smooth transition and to try to lower that 30%. Whether your school has a program to help you or not, think about what you, personally, can do to help ease yourself into this new lifestyle.

Topics on this page: > General Transition Strategies & Tips > College Preparation in 9th Grade > College Preparation in 10th Grade > College Preparation in 11th Grade

General Transition Strategies & Tips

Go to class.

This strategy seems obvious, but it can be very hard when your parents aren’t there to make you go anymore. If you haven’t scheduled your classes yet, you can make it easier for yourself by trying to avoid class times you know you’ll be tempted to skip. (8 a.m. lecture, anyone?) One of the best things about college is that you get to decide how you live your life, so if you are responsible regarding your decisions, you can set up your daily schedule to help you achieve success.

In a study from the University of California Santa Cruz , researchers found that (unsurprisingly) students who actually attended class did better on their final exam than students who did not attend class. If you do have to miss class, your professors won’t have materials ready for you when you return like your high school teachers did. It’s up to you to get the information you missed, and you’ll probably have to rely on notes from a classmate.

When you were in high school, you had 180 different class sessions for one class throughout the year. In college, you could have as few as 30 or even 15 class sessions for one class. By just missing one class, you are missing a large amount of material.

Think about your courses in monetary terms, as well. Say, for example, your tuition is $7,000 for the semester. If you have five classes, each class is worth $1,400. If you have 15 weeks of classes and your class runs two times per week, that means each class is about $46. Every time you think about skipping class, imagine throwing $46 out the window. You (or your parents) are paying for your education; make sure you take advantage of it.

Be engaged in class

Actually going to class is important for academic success, but you need to pay attention once you’re there, too. Don’t give in to the temptation to zone out when you’re sitting in a huge lecture hall. Pay attention, take notes, and don’t be afraid to ask a classmate, TA, or professor for help if you’re confused.

The rigor of your college classes will be very different from what you experienced in high school. The pace is much faster and the material is more complex. If you don’t pay attention and stay on top of it, it won’t take long to get behind and be completely lost.

Usually in high school, there is a lot of downtime in class, but you won’t find this in college. Your professors will teach what they want to teach and that will be it. You may even find that your classes will end early at times because the professors don’t have to make sure they fill every minute of the class with content or activities like your teachers did in high school. If your professor finishes what they wanted to teach and there are still 15 minutes left of class time, they will often end class early. This just goes to show that every second and every piece of content in a college class matters.

Use your resources

College campuses are full of resources to help students succeed, but the trick is that you have to seek them out. Almost all campuses have writing centers and tutors available to students, and professors hold office hours for students to get extra help or ask questions.

Following is a list of facilities and resources most campuses have that can help make your academic life a success:

• Writing center
• Career counselor
• Academic adviser
• Teaching assistants
• Computer labs
• Information technology services (ITS)
• Free access to online journals
• Office hours

Have a study strategy

Avoid pulling an all-nighter and have the discipline to study and review your notes consistently. After being in school for 12 years, you should have a good idea of what type of studying works best for you- flash cards, rewriting your notes, finding a study group, etc.

College campuses also have great study spots, so find the perfect spot for you. Whether it’s the library, a quiet campus building, a nice bench, or a comfy seat in the student center between classes, a great study spot is a must! Try to find somewhere where you won’t be tempted by distractions and condition yourself to only study in this spot. After a while, it will become second nature to get right down to work when you go to this spot.

Treat your body well

You don’t have to gain the freshman 15! Beginning or continuing an unhealthy lifestyle while you’re going through so many other changes just makes the transition that much harder. According to success.com , you need good food, sleep, and exercise to be successful. When you treat your body well, you feel better and more motivated, so this creates a positive snowball effect for every other aspect of your life. Try to limit the number of times you take advantage of the all you can eat dessert in the dining commons.

There are a lot of things in the sleep, food, and exercise category that were likely in your life before, but will be missing when you get to college. You won’t have home cooked meals in your dorm room, you won’t have sports practice or gym class to keep your body moving, and you won’t have your big comfy bed in a dark and quiet bedroom. College makes it difficult to treat your body well, but do the best you can in these categories.

Work on your roommate relationship

Your roommate can be a great source of comfort and support when you’re going through this transition. Living right along with someone who is going through the same thing can be helpful; don’t be afraid to vent with your roommate and let them know if you’re struggling.

On the other hand, sometimes roommate relationships don’t come easy, and if this is the case for you, it’s probably best not to force it. If you try too hard to be best friends with your roommate if it’s clear the connection isn’t there, you may create a tense and awkward relationship. You also don’t want to retaliate against your roommate if you don’t get along; this will only make things worse. Do your best to live amicably with them.

Find your inner circle

One of the things that makes this transition hard is that it can be really lonely, especially if you’re far away from home. Try to find an inner circle that makes you feel comfortable; this could be a club, a group of friends on your dorm floor, or other students with the same major. If you are able to find a group where you fit in, you’ll have a great support system to help you when you’re struggling with the transition to college life.

If you’re struggling to fit in, reach out to those around you: your RA, your classmates, an acquaintance from your hometown, etc. You would probably be surprised at how many people would be willing to help you feel at home and help your transition to college. According to an article for U.S. News & World Report ,

College success happens when the academics of an institution totally blow your mind, and the social aspect of college life helps you learn and grow into a new, amazing person. When one of these aspects is off and you feel like you just don’t fit in, your entire college life suffers.

If you find yourself getting too caught up in the academic aspect and completely neglecting the social aspect, you may realize that you don’t have a support system in place when you need one.

Make it feel like home

When you first step into your dorm room, it might feel very uninviting. Even if you don’t have the eye of a decorator, take some time to give your room a few touches that feel like home. Try adding curtains to your window, hanging pictures of your family and pets, or adding an area rug. When you’re missing the comforts of home and are feeling a little homesick, these small touches can make a huge difference.

You can also make college feel more like home by finding places to go that remind you of your home or your family. For example, maybe you love going to the mall with your mom; find the closest mall and take some time to just relax there. Maybe you find yourself missing the comfort of your dog or cat. Find a local animal shelter and see if they are accepting volunteers.

It’s normal to feel lonely and homesick. Don’t be afraid to feel those feelings, but don’t just wallow in them either. Take practical steps to make yourself feel better. The more you keep yourself busy and integrate yourself into the community at your school, the less you will feel these feelings.

Know your coping strategies

When you start to struggle with something or get stressed out, what do you turn to? Maybe you like to exercise or you need a long chat with your mom. Make sure you know what your coping strategies are and find ways you can easily rely on them while on campus. One mistake a lot of students make when they suddenly have a lot of freedom is they turn to partying, drugs, and/or alcohol as a coping mechanism. This might be really tempting, but this strategy is not going to work long term, and can actually make college harder for you, rather than easier.

The Most Important Tip: Ask For Help

Don’t be afraid to get help, whether it’s from your parents, your professors, your friends, or the mental health center on campus. There is nothing wrong with admitting you’re struggling and you need help. According to Robin Pendoley Ed.M, every college freshman has mental health needs . More and more colleges are recognizing the need for mental health support for students, and almost all schools have mental health centers or counselors available to students.

If you are really struggling and are finding the transition too difficult, there is also no shame in re-evaluating your college choice. Maybe you chose a school too far away from home or you realized that you are struggling to keep up with your major. If the position you’re in isn’t a right fit, you may find that the transition is much easier once you change some of your circumstances.

College Preparation in 9th Grade

You’re just starting high school. It’s the beginning of a four-year adventure that you’ve been anticipating for years. The last thing you want to do is start thinking about college. But that’s exactly what you should be doing. Real college preparation begins in the 9th grade.

You don’t have to stress out too much. There is still plenty of time. But the 9th grade is when things start to count. It’s important that you get yourself on a track for success now. Start thinking in terms of the big picture: where you want to go and what you want to do, both in college and beyond.

Use the 9th grade to figure out what kind of student you are and work to become a better one. Doing so will not only help you get into a good school, you will perform better once you’re there. Follow these steps and you can ensure that the work you do now will pay off later.

Get Good Grades

The 9th grade is when your grades start to count for more than just an allowance bonus from your parents. Depending on the school, your high school transcript begins now. These grades will be reflected on your college applications. It’s time to get serious as a student.

But don’t panic. This is just the beginning of a long road, and there will be bumps along the way. Unless you’re planning on attending an elite university, you can probably afford a few B’s and C’s in the 9th grade. Many colleges will overlook this if you show steady improvement throughout high school. And some colleges don’t even look at freshman year grades.

Use this year to get better as a student. Improve your study habits. Read as much as you can outside of class work. And perhaps most importantly, learn how to manage your time. Figuring out how to juggle everything in high school life now will save you lots of stress down the road.

Challenge Yourself

Getting good grades is the most important thing, but it won’t mean much if you aren’t challenging yourself. College admissions counselors don’t just look at your GPA as a static number. They will dig deeper to see if you got your grades taking easy classes or hard ones.

If you only take the easiest classes, you may coast through high school with no problems, but you won’t be preparing yourself for the rigors of college. Take honors, AP and IB classes, depending on what your school offers.

Utilize Your Guidance Counselor

Many high school students write off guidance counselors. But if you use them wisely, they can be an invaluable resource for your success in high school and your preparation for college.

Talk to your guidance counselor sooner than later and develop a general plan for high school. Find out what upper-level classes your school offers. If needed, check into tutoring, mentorships and other programs. They are there for more than just checking off your diploma requirements.

Your guidance counselor can also help you prepare for college. Ask what kind of college resources your school has, including literature, college recruiting fairs and college classes you can take while still in high school.

Extracurricular Activities

A big part of high school is exploring new activities and discovering things that you love and excel in. Start participating in extracurricular activities. Whether you go for sports, art or computer programming, invest your time and energy wisely and you will see great rewards.

Many high school students try to do too much and are overwhelmed. It’s very easy to commit yourself to too many things and before you know it, your grades are suffering and you’re stressed out. This is where time management becomes so important. Learn to prioritize the things in your life. Schoolwork should always come first.

Most successful students are involved in many different activities, but you want to have something that you pursue in depth. College admissions offices like to see students that are dedicated and see things through, rather than ones who constantly jump from one thing to another. The more you can get involved in something, the more you will learn and grow as a young adult.

Foreign Language

Foreign language is a basic requirement for high school and college admissions, but it can also be used to strengthen your academic record. With some exceptions, most colleges have a high school foreign language requirement of two years. But it is always recommended to study more. A third or fourth year in one language will add a huge boost to your college application.

That’s one language. If you study two or three different languages, your high school requirements will be fulfilled, but you will be hurting your chances to get into a good school. Admissions officers are looking for proficiency and commitment. Pick your language carefully and stick with it.

Don’t be Afraid to Ask for Help

The 9th grade almost always has a greater workload than middle school. Some students adjust easily, while others struggle with the transition. If you find yourself feeling confused or falling behind in any classes, do something about it sooner than later. Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness. It means that you’re proactive as a student.

Start by talking to your teachers. In addition to clarifying a subject, this will help you develop personal relationships with them. Down the road you may have additional classes or extracurricular activities with some of them. You may even ask one to write your letter of recommendation in a couple of years.

Aside from teachers, you have a number of resources for support, such as parents, siblings and other family members. Your school provides tutoring and academic support services. You can also start a study group with classmates. Studying alone and isolated can be frustrating. A study group can make it more fun, and as you see how others study and learn, you’ll have a better understanding of your own strengths and weaknesses as a student.

Work on Reading and Writing Skills

Many high school students don’t realize their full potential due to a lack of reading and writing skills. This is something that will help you in every subject. Not only will you be a better student, you’ll become a smarter, more articulate person.

The more you read, the smarter you will be. Read whatever you can. Fiction, non-fiction, news, history, poetry; whatever it is, it will improve your cognitive and analytical thinking. Go one step further and talk to others about what you read. Whether it’s family, friends or the librarian, discussing a book or news article with someone else will expose you to new ideas and perspectives.

To develop stronger writing skills, sit down with teachers and get specific feedback on your papers and/or essays. You may also want to enroll in a writing course or workshop. Even if you think you are a good academic writer, there is always room for improvement in this realm.

AP Exams and SAT Subject Tests

If your school offers Advanced Placement (AP) classes, you may want to try some of them out in the 9th grade. AP classes are more rigorous, but more rewarding. You will develop better reading, writing and critical thinking skills, and your academic record will be much stronger for it. AP exams are taken in the spring, and a high score (4 or 5 out of 5) can earn you college credit.

SAT subject tests, also known as SAT II, are multiple-choice tests that are specific to a single subject. They are not required, but many high school students take them to pad their resumes. If you just took an advanced class and did well, that’s the best time to do it. You have nothing to lose. A bad score can be withheld from your record.

Begin Thinking About Colleges

You’ve still got plenty of time so don’t worry too much about where exactly you’ll attend college. But the 9th grade is a good time to start what will be a long and complex process.

The internet makes it very easy to do basic research on schools that interest you. Most colleges offer online virtual tours of their campus and academic programs. If you’re traveling in another city and have the time, visit the campus for an hour or two. Many campuses have a regional flavor. East coast schools tend to have a different feel than those in the South or on the West Coast.

Even if you have your heart set on attending college away from home, take a look at the options in your area. You may be surprised by what you find. At the very least, you’ll have something to compare other schools to in the future.

The more exposure you have to different colleges, the better you can judge and compare them when your college search becomes more serious.

Use Your Summer Wisely

Now that you’re in high school, your grades aren’t the only thing contributing to your resume. You want to engage in extracurricular activities, and the next four summers will present opportunities you couldn’t take advantage of during the busy school year.

Use your summers to do something worthwhile that builds character and adds to personal growth. It can be almost anything, such as travel abroad or a road trip to cultural or historic sites. You can get a job or volunteer in your community. Maybe you want to start a group, club or special project with friends. Whatever it is, think about how it will contribute to your experience as a young adult.

Think About the Big Picture

College is still a long way off, but the 9th grade is the beginning of that journey. Use this year to develop good study habits and improve yourself as a student. Start thinking about your future and where you want to go in life. Even if you have just the slightest hint, it will help you prepare for college.

College Preparation in 10th Grade

In the 10th grade you still have plenty of time until college, but you should always be thinking about the big picture. What you do now will have an impact on where you end up going to college. It’s a good time to start thinking about high school in terms of what comes next and where you want to go.

There is a great deal you can do in the 10th grade to better prepare yourself for college. In the process, you will become a better student. You will not only build up your high school resume, but you’ll be setting yourself up for success in higher education.

Keep Your Grades Up

There are so many different elements that go into your college application, such as extracurricular activities, that it can be easy to forget grades are the absolute most important thing. No matter what else you undertake, it should never come at the expense of your grades.

Many of your 10th grade classes will have a higher workload than you’re used to. It’s important to manage your time well and learn to prioritize the different activities in your life. Chances are, you will only get busier and busier as high school goes on.

Don’t worry if you get the occasional bad grade. Unless you have your sights set on the Ivy League, you don’t need to stress over some B’s and C’s. But what you should do is focus on improving in those classes/subjects. Get feedback from your teachers sooner than later, and talk to a parent, mentor or other adult about a class you’re struggling with.

Take Challenging Classes

Not only do you want to get good grades, you want to get them in challenging classes. Straight A’s in the most basic classes will only get you so far in higher education. Take some honors classes and, if you’re school offers them, AP and IB classes. Good grades in these classes will really stand out on your college application.

In fact, many college admissions departments will ignore grades in certain elective and non-academic classes, such as physical education music, drama and woodshop. They will look beyond your GPA and evaluate how much you challenged yourself and how much you succeeded.

Explore Extracurricular Activities

Extracurricular activities are the best way to strengthen your college resume. But they can be even more than that. What begins as a semester of Drama can lead to a lifelong passion for theater. High school is all about finding out what you love and what you’re good at, and extracurricular activities are a great way to explore that.

Some students have trouble finding something that clicks with them. If so, look beyond what’s offered through your school. Search for clubs, organizations or volunteer opportunities in your community. Or create your own group, whether it be a rock band or a book club.

Other students take on too many extracurricular activities and get overwhelmed. There is such a tremendous variety of sports, clubs and other activities in high school these days. That is why time management is so crucial to your success.

Instead of dabbling in everything that sparks your interest, invest yourself in a few things. Even if you only have one major activity outside of school, colleges like to see that you have committed yourself to something and deepened your experience.

Every college admissions officer will be looking for foreign language proficiency. It demonstrates that you are capable of a high level of cognitive thinking and communication-not to mention that you can learn something that is difficult for anyone over the age of 6.

It is vitally important that you pick a language and stick with it. Colleges are looking for proficiency, and that usually takes two years or more. If you skip around from language to language, it will just look like you’re non-committal.

Other than certain elite universities, most colleges only require two years of high school foreign language. But if you want to get into a good school, you should try to take more. Three years or more will demonstrate that you’re dedicated and academically engaged.

If you’re already fluent in a language, you may be able to demonstrate proficiency with an AP exam. Most colleges will recognize an AP score of 4 or 5. Studying a second foreign language for your high school requirement is also a good idea.

Take the PSAT or SAT II

Some students never take the PSAT, and most who do take it junior year, when it can qualify you for a National Merit Scholarship. But you have nothing to lose by taking a practice run in October of your sophomore year. It won’t go on your academic record, but it will give you an idea of where you stand. As you begin researching colleges, you will know how you stack up to their average incoming freshmen.

If there is a subject or subjects you excel in, you may want to take the SAT II exams, also known as SAT subject tests. These are standardized multiple-choice exams that are specific to a single subject, such as literature, history, biology or a foreign language. These are not required bolster, but many students take them to bolster their college applications.

Begin Researching Colleges

Students who start their college search now, before the pressure begins mounting, are usually grateful they did so. You don’t need to get too serious. Just do some online research about schools that intrigue you, for whatever reason.

As you do your research, keep a few things about yourself in mind. What types of subjects are you really interested in? Are you drawn to reading, writing and communication, or more technical fields involving math and science? Do you see yourself at a big research university or a small liberal arts college? Urban or rural? Home or away? You don’t have to have the answers now, just begin asking the questions.

If possible, visit some college campuses. You can start with local universities, state colleges or even community colleges. If you’re traveling, take the opportunity to spend an hour or two at a local campus. Most colleges also host online virtual tours that can give you a flavor of what they have to offer.

Common Application

The Common Application is used by hundreds of colleges and universities, including many of the larger ones in the country. You can use the Common Application to get a better idea of what colleges are looking for in students.

Log onto www.commonapp.org to find the application. Look it over and learn what the requirements are. What does this application ask? How would you answer? Knowing what needs to eventually go into your college applications will help you plan ahead to make sure you’re covering all your bases.

Make the Most of Your Summer

After a long and stressful school year, it is tempting to spend the summer kicking back. But ambitious students use the summer to do something worthwhile.

There’s no prescription; you can pursue anything that will add to your experience as a young adult. It could be a job or a class, a recreation adventure or a trip abroad. You may want to volunteer in your community or start a project with friends. Whatever it is, think of it in terms of personal growth.

College Preparation in 11th Grade

Junior year grades.

In terms of college applications, your junior year grades are vitally important. College admissions counselors will pay the most attention to your 11th grade academic performance. This is because it is the most recent data and it will signal if you’re grades are trending upwards or downwards.

Many students struggle with the transition to high school, which coincides with volatile early teenage years. In the 9th and 10th grades, you may still be finding your way as a student. If you get some sub-par grades, don’t worry. You’ll still have time to improve your GPA in the years ahead.

College admissions counselors are looking to see that you’ve figured this out by your junior year. By now you’re a little older and you should have learned some valuable study skills to become a better student. You also have the goal of college to motivate you to excel.

It’s important that you use this year to take challenging classes and demonstrate that you’re striving for success as a student. Admissions counselors will be looking for an upward trend in your grades, and when you submit your college applications next year, your junior year grades will come under the most scrutiny.

PSAT scores are not included in your college application, so you really have nothing to lose with this practice test. But there are plenty of good reasons to take the PSAT in October of your junior year.

The SAT and ACT are very challenging exams and you will be thankful that you had the practice. Doing so will cut down on the stress of studying for your senior year exams, and stress makes it harder to retain information and perform well on tests.

If you do well on the PSAT, you may want to register for the SAT or ACT in the spring of junior year. This will give you time to retake either exam in your senior year if you feel the need.

You can use your PSAT score to gauge which colleges are in your range and which are not. All colleges post profiles, which list the GPA and test scores of the previous incoming freshman class. Use this to determine if a college will be a “match” for you, meaning your grades and test scores line up with theirs. If you’re below the bar, this will be one of your “reach” schools. If you’re above the bar, then this school might be a good “safety” for you.

A good score on the PSAT can translate into real dollars. National Merit Scholarships are awarded to students who perform well on the PSAT. This can save you thousands of dollars on tuition and expand the field of schools you can afford.

Keeping your grades up is important, but don’t just go for the easy classes. You also want to demonstrate that you’re challenging yourself. Take some honors, AP (Advanced Placement) and other upper-level courses.

These days more and more students are earning college credit while still in high school. A good score on AP exams will translate to college credit. Many schools also have programs with local colleges allowing students to take actual college courses.

If you can take these courses during junior year, you have the bonus of including them on your college application. This is especially valuable if you scored high on the AP exams. It shows that you already have the reading, writing and critical thinking skills required for the college level.

Extracurricular activities are important, but shouldn’t come at the expense of grades. It’s important to build a balanced schedule that you can handle. Hopefully you’ve figured out how to strike this balance in your freshman and sophomore years.

Junior year is a great time to expand on your extracurricular involvement and explore leadership opportunities. College admissions will be impressed by leadership roles.

You don’t have to be the best at something to be a leader. Maybe you’re not good enough to be the captain of the basketball team. There are plenty of other leadership opportunities out there.

Look into student clubs, community volunteering or student government. You may even want to start your own academic, athletic or cultural club, or organize a fundraising project for a local cause. The important thing is to be creative and take the initiative.

Junior year is your best opportunity to show that you’ve grown from an adolescent student to a young adult leader.

Foreign language holds a unique position in academics. It is a basic requirement for high school, but in terms of college admissions it can mean so much more. It indicates that you can master a difficult subject and that you have an interest in and understanding of a different culture.

Learning a foreign language can be very frustrating, especially in a classroom setting. But stick with it. You’ll be happy you did. Mastery of a language will stand out on a college application and will serve you later in life, opening up employment opportunities in a globalized world.

Many high schools and colleges only require 2 or 3 years foreign language. While this is the minimum, it is always a good idea to study more. Students who are really ambitious about college will see this as an easy opportunity to improve your academic record. And you’ll have to keep studying a foreign language once you get to college, so you might as well stay practiced.

It’s also better to stick with one language and go as deep as possible. Don’t jump around from language to language. The experience will likely be frustrating and you won’t remember any of it years later. Colleges want to see that you’ve advanced in your studies on a linear path. Even if the language isn’t as popular as Spanish or Mandarin, getting to your third or fourth year will show that you have achieved a level of mastery in that subject.

SAT and ACT

People often associate the SAT and ACT with senior year, but the truth is that many students take these exams in the spring of junior year. Doing so will give you many advantages.

Just like your PSAT score, knowing how you performed on the exams will give you a better idea of where you stand and what colleges are within your range. As you begin researching schools, you will know how you stack up to the rest of the incoming freshman class.

If you don’t score well in your junior year, you can use the spring and summer to study. There is a whole industry surrounding the SAT and ACT, including dozens of preparation books and classes. Some students spend months studying specifically for these exams. Also, if you take the test early you’re likely to have less anxiety about the whole process.

Begin Searching for Colleges

It might feel like you have all the time in the world, but searching for the right college is a long and complex process. In order to give yourself ample time, start the search in your junior year, if not sooner.

Do some online research. It’s a quick and easy way to learn the basics about each school. If your interest is piqued you can request more literature that the school will happily mail to you.

As you research different schools, focus on developing your own criteria. Do you want to go to a large or small college? What subjects interest you? Even if you really want to travel away from home, check out what’s available in your state.

If you’ve done your research during junior year, you’ll be ready to visit some campuses the following summer. A campus visit shouldn’t be used to see if you like a school. You should already know that. Do your research so you’re prepared to ask detailed questions when you’re there on the ground. If the opportunity comes to make the trip earlier, go for it.

Beginning your college search sooner than later will save you an enormous amount of stress down the road. Start a list of schools you like, no more than 25 or 30. Try to keep the list within this range. Eventually you will narrow it down to a dozen, but for now it’s okay to keep your search broad.

Guidance Counselors

Sit down with your guidance counselor sometime during the spring semester. First make sure you are fulfilling all the requirements for your high school diploma. If there’s anything you’re missing, you’ll still have time in your senior year.

Your guidance counselor can be an invaluable asset to help you search for the right college. If you’ve already done some research and started a list of schools, bring this to your meeting. It always helps to have specifics to go over. Your counselor will help you judge the merits of different schools and make sure you’re approaching the process in a constructive way.

If you haven’t already done so, you may want to ask your counselor about AP and pre-college classes. This can be a great way to earn college credit early and your counselor will have all the necessary information readily available.

Use the summer after junior year wisely. Plan some trips to visit campuses. Maybe get a job or volunteer. Attend a workshop, summer camp or travel somewhere. Whatever it is, think about how it will contribute to your experience as a young, capable student of the world.

You will want to use this time to study for the SAT and/or ACT, as well as continue your research on different colleges. When your senior year starts, you will be inundated with schoolwork and various activities. And by that point the college application process accelerates considerably. By the time senior year starts, you’re going to want to be prepared. College is just around the corner!

Similar Posts:

• Guide on College and University Admissions
• Guide on Extracurricular Activities for High School Students
• Preschool – Everything You Need to Know

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Transitioning from High School to College Academic Writing

You've done it — you've been accepted to college! Those countless campus tours and application essays have finally paid off. While this is undoubtedly an exciting milestone, it can also bring uncertainty and worry. College education can saddle you with a more significant workload, and you'll be taught by professors with higher expectations.

One subject that significantly differs between high school and college is writing. You might have become accustomed to the 5-paragraph essay model in high school, which served you well then. However, college requires a more advanced level of writing that does not rely on an outlined structure. How can you successfully make the shift from high school to college writing?

Breaking away from the 5-paragraph essay

We learned this format as early as elementary school and applied it throughout middle and high school. Here is the basic structure:

• Introduction
• 1 st body paragraph: Main idea #1
• 2 nd body paragraph: Main idea #2
• 3 rd body paragraph: Main idea #3

The 5-paragraph essay is a simple and effective way to organize your writing into distinct sections. The introduction introduces your thesis statement. The three body paragraphs each represent one main idea. The conclusion is a summary of what you've written. Although this is a great way to learn to write papers, this format is too formulaic and isn't functional beyond high school. Let's break down the differences between high school-level and college-level writing, paragraph by paragraph.

What makes a great college-level introduction

The introduction is the first paragraph of the essay. It introduces your argument or thesis statement and creates a roadmap to prove your thesis throughout the rest of your paper. It is essential to make your introduction clear and detailed, so your readers know what to expect. In fact, this is probably the most important part of your essay, so it's important to familiarize yourself with the different techniques you can use at the beginning to grab the reader's attention. If you still don't know how to start your essay, check out the various study materials on the Studocu educational platform.

Here's what a high school-level introduction entails and how a college-level introduction departs from that model.

High school…

• Hook : The hook is the first sentence of the introduction. Its purpose is to draw readers into your paper — to entice them to read the rest of it. A hook can be a question, quote, anecdote, or even exclamation. The hook does not need to correlate directly to your argument.
• Thesis statement : The thesis statement is introduced toward the end of the introduction. It is typically one sentence with three main points — each representing one of the essay's body paragraphs — that will prove the thesis. The thesis should be argumentative, but it can be broad and general.

Versus college

• No hook : College essay introductions do not require a hook. Since many college papers have word count and page requirements, a hook will take up unnecessary space. It's better to dive straight into your argument than to pander to your reader with an eye-catching statement.
• Thesis statement : The thesis statement is still included, introduced toward the end of the introduction. It can vary in length between one to three sentences, depending on the complexity of your argument. Your thesis does not require three main supporting points; you can use as many or as few supporting details as you need to prove your thesis. Most importantly, your thesis should be specific and argumentative.

Building strong body paragraphs

Once you've got your introduction down, it's time to begin your body paragraphs. These are where you're likely to see the most significant differences between high school-level and college-level writing.

Under the 5-paragraph essay format, high school essays contain three body paragraphs. There are no strict length requirements for each of the body paragraphs. Each body represents one of the three main ideas chosen to prove the thesis, and each main idea has three points of evidence to support it.

Let's consider an example. Your essay thesis centers on the importance of helping to reduce climate change. Here is an outline of the contents of one body paragraph:

Body paragraph #1 : Alternative transportation methods can help reduce your carbon footprint.

• Evidence #1 : Carpooling
• Evidence #2 : Bike riding
• Evidence #3 : Walking

These three pieces of evidence support the main idea of your first body paragraph.

Here are some other ideas to consider as you write your body paragraphs:

• Research and sources : High school papers don't usually include much — if any — external source material, so you don't have to do any additional research. For example, an essay on John Steinbeck's The Grapes of Wrath will include evidence solely from the book. Likewise, a lab report or scientific paper will contain information from the lab you have completed. Some high school research papers require external research but not to the same degree as a college paper.
• Analysis : In high school papers, analysis of evidence is present but not extensive. It may point out more general ideas that are pretty obvious to readers. One piece of evidence can include two to three sentences of analysis and stop there.
• Transitional statements : You will most likely include transitional phrases such as "in conclusion" or "in addition" in your writing. They serve to move you from one point to the next, but they don't provide much context for your argument. Each body paragraph will have an opening sentence relating to its respective main idea.
• Connection to the thesis : Each body paragraph focuses solely on its main idea. There is little to no connection back to the thesis because it is assumed that the bodies serve the thesis.

College papers can have as few or as many body paragraphs as you need to prove your argument. The amount of body paragraphs you have is also influenced by the page length restriction or other requirements for your paper.

Body paragraphs should never exceed one page in length. They are each typically one to two-thirds of a page. If your body paragraph is longer than one page, you likely have enough evidence and analysis to split that paragraph into two separate bodies. Double-check to ensure you are not combining two points into one body paragraph. Each paragraph should have its own main idea.

Some other things to consider as you write your body paragraphs are:

• Research and sources : College papers will often require external research and sources. This isn't always a requirement, but the extent of external research is more common than in high school. For example, an essay on John Steinbeck's The Grapes of Wrath may include direct quotes from the book as well as external research on the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl . Likewise, a scientific research paper might include results from your own experiment and external statistics from past published experiments.
• Analysis : Aside from the thesis statement, your analysis is the most important part of the paper. The analysis is extensive and specific, aiming to bring light to an unexplored topic. You will point out small details readers may have considered unimportant and draw conclusions about them. You'll bring a fresh perspective to evidence and teach your readers something new.
• Transitional statements : You'll likely use transitional statements in your college writing, but they will serve a more significant purpose. Each body paragraph will begin with a transitional sentence connecting one body paragraph to the next. They should be specific — not general — and outline what you'll be discussing in the paragraph. You do not want any of your paragraphs to be disconnected. After all, they each serve the same purpose: proving the thesis statement.
• Connection to the thesis : Every body paragraph refers back to the thesis. While each paragraph has its main idea to discuss, you can't forget the purpose of each one. You should actively discuss how your analysis of evidence proves your argument.

Ending with a strong conclusion

The conclusion is the last paragraph of an essay. Like the other elements, the content of the conclusion differs between high school writing and college writing.

• Summary : High school conclusions summarize what you've discussed throughout your paper. You restate the thesis and the three main points you've made supporting your argument. There is no further analysis included in the conclusion.
• Drawing connections : These conclusions draw no connections between disciplines. For example, an English paper conclusion solely discusses what was written in the essay. Using The Grapes of Wrath as a topic example again, the conclusion focuses only on the book and its literary implications. You do not draw connections between the book content and its historical connections.
• Summary : While you usually restate the thesis at the end, college conclusions are not merely a summary of what you've written. Rather, these conclusions answer the "so what?" question. Why should readers care about your argument? Why is your paper important? What does it add to the existing research on this topic? What's its relevance? These are just some of the questions to consider as you craft your concluding statements.
• Drawing connections : One way to answer the "so what?" question is to draw interdisciplinary connections between what you've said and what's already been written. For example, if you're writing a sociology paper on the foster care system in the United States, you could connect it to what you've learned in an economics or history class. How does a child's socioeconomic status impact the likelihood of ending up in the foster care system? How has the creation and role of the foster care system evolved over time? These are the kind of questions to consider as you make connections across disciplines in your conclusion.

Other things to keep in mind

Now that we've discussed the differences in formulating your papers, let's consider some of the other key distinctions between high school and college writing.

Quality over quantity

High school writing assignments do not tend to have minimum word counts to meet, so you can write as much as you want to prove your argument. However, college writing assignments usually have strict word count requirements so that you focus on the quality of your writing instead of the quantity. You must write good, compelling arguments and analysis. Your writing should be concise so you can communicate your ideas clearly and effectively without filling your paper with fluff.

Summary vs. analysis

While high school writing does require some analysis, the summary does not introduce new ideas. You can summarize a source as evidence and summarize your paper in the conclusion. In contrast, college writing requires strict analysis. Any summary you provide should be no longer than one or two sentences to introduce a source or provide context.

With college writing, you need to provide quality analysis. Consider everything — even the most minor details — including punctuation marks, speech patterns, and motifs , because sometimes the smallest, most inconsequential-seeming points make for the most significant analysis.

Word choice and specificity

You might be tempted to use complicated language in your college papers to impress your professors. Spoiler alert: they probably won't be as impressed as you might have thought. Instead, use field-specific terminology throughout your paper. If you're writing a biology research paper, it will make sense to include words like "polypeptides" and "anabolism." When writing your paper, take care to use simple language that fits the context of your argument. This will keep your writing clear and concise, prioritizing understanding over complexity

Specificity is similar to word choice, but it refers particularly to overstatements . You should avoid using overstatements in your college writing. Generalized phrases like "society," "throughout history," and "many people believe" are examples of terms that signify generalizations and assumptions. Remain focused in your writing and use terms specific to the community, institution, or field you're writing about.

Tone, voice, and tense

In college, your writing should maintain an active voice. This gives your writing more clarity. Your tone depends on your argument, but it should mostly remain neutral. Your tone matters most when you include external research in your argument. For example, if you're paraphrasing a scholarly article with a positive tone, your paraphrased version should also convey a positive tone.

The tense is also largely dependent on what you're writing. For example, English Literature papers use the present tense. Meanwhile, some disciplines – like the sciences – do not have a strict tense requirement and might include a mix of past, present, and future tenses. You should always be aware of what tense your discipline requires.

High school papers almost always use MLA for citations, if they require citations at all. College citations depend on the disciple in which you are writing. For example, English Literature essays follow MLA format, which includes the use of parenthetical citations in your paper. However, history or political science papers require Chicago Style citations — this includes the use of footnotes, not parenthetical citations. Psychology and behavioral science disciplines use APA style .

The distinction between style guides might be confusing, but there are many informative sources online, such as Purdue Owl , that can teach you how to properly cite a source in any citation style.

Making the transition

We've thrown a lot of information at you about making the move from high school to college, so take your time learning your new expectations and go easy on yourself as you learn new ways to write. Don't forget that practice makes perfect, so practice writing as much as you can.

If you find yourself continuing to struggle in this transition from high school to college writing, don't be afraid to ask your professors for help. They hold office hours for a reason! You can stop by to discuss your thesis, and some professors will even read drafts of students' essays and give valuable feedback. Remember that you're not the only one trying to make this shift. You have plenty of resources at your disposal — use them!

Header photo by Mangostar .

A Guide to a Smooth Transition from High School to College

Graduating from high school and going to college can be a shocking transition for many students, even those that are used to being at the top of their class! There is no right or wrong way to transition because everyone has unique personal and academic experiences before pursuing higher education. However, generally speaking, college assignments and exams are much more rigorous. With there being fewer assignments, every grade counts.

If you’ve decided on a college to attend, congratulations! It’s now time to prepare for the big transition! Here are a few tips to help you bridge the gap and adapt seamlessly to university life.

Create a Schedule

First thing’s first: Make a manageable schedule that will set you up for success. This could mean different things to different people. For example, if you work best with tight structure , then you may explore blocking out every hour for productive activities like waking/sleeping, eating nourishing meals, exercising , studying, attending classes, working, and socializing. A well-rounded schedule is key to staying sane, so maintaining balance is essential. Consider how many classes you think you can handle each quarter or semester, and try not to stretch yourself too far. Doing so may result in falling behind on other important life aspects necessary for vital health and success.

TIP : The great thing about college is that unlike in high school, you don’t have to take morning classes if you are not a morning person. Alternatively, late-night classes are not necessarily mandatory for those who prefer to stay in once it gets dark out. In college, you get a lot more freedom with scheduling. Take advantage of this by checking out course availability and putting together a class schedule that best suits your lifestyle.

Know Your Resources

It’s totally normal to come across a few roadblocks in college. If you find yourself struggling in a class, it’s best to ask for help right away. Do it while your mind is still fresh on the topic that you need clarification on. Waiting too long may result in never getting the help you need, which may hamper your ability to do well in a class. Professors hold regular office hours, a block of time set aside for students to come in and ask questions. Depending on your institution, there may also be free tutoring services and study-skills workshops available. If you have a physical or learning disability, then find out what additional resources and accommodations are at your disposal.

Getting a mentor or two can also enhance your college experience. Identify peers you respect, resident assistants, career counselors, academic advisors, and alumni that can give you direction, motivation, and even help you land your future dream job! Familiarizing yourself with available resources ahead of time will set you up for success.

Show Up Everyday

We may all have days where we don’t feel like going to class. Unlike in high school, college professors don’t often take attendance, and mom and dad aren’t around to wake you up. At the end of the day, higher education is what you make of it. That being said, it’s important to take responsibility for yourself and go to class every day. Showing up allows you to stay on top of course materials and learn what your professor considers most important. This may clue you into what exams may entail! In class, take thorough notes in a way that’s conducive to your study habits, and maybe even find a reliable study buddy who can help fill you in if you’re ever absent.

Enjoy the College Experience

College can get stressful, especially around exam time. It can be easy to get stuck in a moment, but the reality is these four years seem to fly by quickly. Soon before you know it, you’ll be out in the real world working through to your retirement! College is a great place to embrace your youth and experience new things that you didn’t in high school. Don’t be afraid to take fun classes for the purpose of learning and engaging in new material, even if they don’t account for much towards your degree. If you still aren’t sure what you want to pursue after college, then taking a variety of courses may help you get a better idea.

In addition to exploring various courses, don’t forget to join a club, volunteer for a cause that’s close to your heart, and explore your university surroundings! College is about more than just studying all day. By joining a club or volunteering, you may meet interesting people that you wouldn’t otherwise. Networking is a crucial part of the college experience that could take you far after graduating with a four-year degree. Finally, many people move out of their immediate hometown for college. If this sounds like you, don’t be afraid to venture out and see what your new city offers! For example, if your college is located near a beach, consider switching up your study space and read there while soaking in some Vitamin D. You may just find yourself feeling more rejuvenated and motivated!

Study Smart

In college, professors often do not grade homework like teachers do in high school. In fact, they will assume that you are following the syllabus and completing the assignments on your own even if they aren’t being checked. At the end of the day, it’s your responsibility to reach out for help or clarification when needed before the exam(s).

Everyone studies best differently. Practice exams, pairing up with a study buddy, going above and beyond on assignments, and actively asking questions during professor’s office hours are some effective study methods. Some courses and textbooks may even come with exclusive access to chapter outlines which can be resourceful as a quick refresher before a test.

Coming out of high school, you may be used to having homework assignments to help “cushion” your grades. In college, your grade is determined by how you do on a couple of exams and writing assignments. If you don’t do so well on one, then you may end up with a C final grade, at best. With that said, don’t expect to coast through college if high school was a breeze for you. Plan on studying in a distraction-free zone, and don’t wait until the last minute to do so.

Take “Me Time” Often

The detrimental effects of stress are emotionally, physically, and mentally linked. With a super busy college schedule, you may forget to do the basics to take care of yourself . This can lead to a downward spiral that may prevent you from doing well in school. Remember to practice self-care by taking part in activities that are meaningful to you, knowing when to say no, getting enough sleep each night, surrounding yourself with invigorating people, eating well, and exercising at least 30 minutes a day. Taking some time off of academics can help you feel more refreshed to put in more time to study later.

Adjust Your Expectations

The initial transition period from high school to college can be difficult for some. Don’t feel bad if you find that things are not working out as planned. Instead, give yourself some time to adjust your expectations, modify your schedule, and manage stress so that you can be on the road to a productive four years in college!

For example, if you were able to handle taking seven classes in high school and feel frustrated that you are struggling to juggle only four in college, just remember that college curriculum is more intense and may take some getting used to. Freshmen may find it easier on their mental, emotional, and physical health to start with three classes first and work their way up as they get comfortable with college life.

A big part of the college experience is figuring things out for yourself, learning to make smart decisions, and working time management to your advantage. For example, finding out the time you are most productive and the best reading strategies that help you retain information will help you be successful in and out of the classroom. Additionally, adopting important habits like self-control, a positive attitude, and organization skills will go a long way to ensure that you stay on top of your assignments.

Finally, a last bit of advice for college-bound students: Enjoy the final summer before college so that you are fully relaxed and mentally prepared for a new and exciting chapter of life!

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High School vs College: 15 Key Differences

Other High School , College Info

Are you about to start college soon? Are you wondering what changes to expect? How is college different from high school? When you compare high school vs college, you'll find many differences, some of which are obvious, others less so.

It's important to understand how high school and college are different from each other so you know what to expect and can have a smoother transition when you begin college. In this guide, we explain the 15 most important differences between high school and college and give you tips to help make this major life change a bit less intimidating.

How Is College Different From High School?

There's a reason so many movies, shows, and books focus on new college students: many people see the transition from high school to college as one of the most important turning points in their life. You're no longer a kid living under your parents' roof; instead you're an adult living on your own and expected to make real, important decisions about your future.

You'll have a lot more freedom, but a lot will also be expected from you, both in class and out. Read on to learn specific high school vs college differences.

Below are 15 high school vs college differences you'll likely encounter once you begin college. There are pros and cons to both high school and college, but knowing what to expect will make you better prepared for this big change.

#1: You'll Have More Independence

The biggest change for high school vs. college is that, in college, you'll have much more independence than you had in high school. Many people focus on the fact that you'll be living away from your parents, and this is a part of it, but you'll have independence in many other areas as well.

You'll have the freedom to decide what you want to major in, which classes you want to take, when you want to schedule those classes, if you want to go out with your friends, how late you want to stay out, even what you want to eat in the dining hall. (I ate Reese's Puffs cereal every day for four years because my parents never allowed it and I was thrilled to finally be able to have it for breakfast.)

#2: You'll Be Treated Like an Adult

Along with your increased independence, you'll also be treated like an adult in college as opposed to a child under your parents' care. In college, you'll no longer need to bring your parents permission slips to sign, you'll be trusted to make your own choices for what you want to study, and you can arrange meetings yourself, without Mom and Dad helping you.

For many students, it's exciting to finally be viewed as an adult, but it also means an increase in responsibilities. If you have a problem with or question about homework, classes, a grade you got, etc., you are the one who will need to solve it. You can't expect your parents to call the school and fix the problem for you like they may have done in high school.

#3: There Will Be a Wider Variety of Classes to Choose From

In high school, you didn't have a lot of choice in regards to which classes you took. You could probably choose a few electives , but your schedule was mostly filled with the standard math, science, English, and social studies requirements that all students had to take.

In college, even if you attend a smaller school, you'll have many more options. They'll be a wider variety of classes to choose from , and many of them will focus on more specific topics like astronomy, ancient Roman history, French literature, the geography of the United States, and more. Many college students like this increase in class options since it makes it easier for them to choose classes on topics they're really interested in.

#4: Classes Will Have Different Formats and Sizes

Each class you took in high school probably had about the same number of students and consisted mostly of lecturing, maybe along with some individual or group work. This isn't true in college. Classes can range from two to 500 students, and their format can vary widely as well. Classes may be completely lecture-based, require hands-on lab work, or be discussion-based where you spend most of class time engaged in conversations or debates with your classmates and professor.

#5: Your Schedule Will Be More Complicated

In high school, school started and ended the same time every day, and your class schedule was probably the same for every day of the week. In college, things get a little trickier. Some classes meet three times a week for an hour and a half, some meet five times a week for an hour, some meet once a week for three hours, etc. This means you'll likely be starting and ending class at different times during the week, and you may end up with a different class schedule for every day of the week.

Some people like the variety this gives them, but it's important to stay on top of your schedule so you don't wind up forgetting to attend class.

#6: You'll Have a New Set of Classmates

One of the most jarring things for many new college students is they're no longer surrounded by classmates and friends they've known for years. Instead, you'll be in a sea of strangers (at least at first), many of whom come from different areas and backgrounds than you. Additionally, you'll likely have a different set of classmates for each of your classes. That's a lot of new faces!

This means you have lots of opportunity for making all kinds of friends, but expect there to be some awkwardness and loneliness at first as everyone gets to know each other and figures out their friend groups. Additionally, since in college everyone wants to be there (at least on some level), you may find your college classmates more motivated and dedicated to doing well in school compared to some of your high school peers.

#7: Classes Will Require More Critical Thinking

Is college hard compared to high school? Going to college isn't just like attending four more years of high school. This is a big step up in your education, and your classes will be more challenging and expect you to keep up. You'll be tested less on memorization and basic regurgitation of facts and more on critical thinking skills and being able to apply what you learned in class to other situations.

You may learn a specific math equation and then be asked to apply that knowledge to more challenging types of equations, learn about different historical events and be asked to analyze how they affected future events, learn a scientific process and be asked to describe how it affects the environment, etc.

#8: College Costs More

There's no way around it; c ollege definitely costs more than high school. Tuition is thousands of dollars, and you'll likely be paying for room and board as well. And those are just the main costs. College requires all sorts of smaller purchases too, like special goggles for your chemistry lab or official test taking booklets for final exams. Buying just one college textbook (often over $100) is enough to never let you take for granted all free materials you got in high school.

#9: You'll Spend Less Time in Class

Most full-time college students spend about 15-20 hours in class a week, which comes out to about three or four hours a day. This is probably much less time than you spent in high school classes every day which means you'll have a lot more unscheduled time to spend how you think is best.

#10: You'll Have More Schoolwork

Don't get too excited about spending less time in class; college definitely knows how to keep you busy. The general rule of thumb is that you'll spend about three hours a week on schoolwork for every one hour of class you're in.

With a standard schedule of 15 credits, that means you can expect to spend 45 hours a week on schoolwork, about as much as a full-time job! This is often much more work than students had in high school, so you should be prepared for an adjustment.

#11: Attendance Will Be Up to You

In high school, you had to go to class every day because if you didn't, you could get in trouble for truancy or (sometimes even more frightening) your parents could find out. In college, there are no requirements for attending class, and no one is going to call your parents if you don't show up. However, don't make the mistake some college students do and think this means you don't need to go to class.

Many professors include attendance as part of your grade, and some will even fail you if you miss a certain number of classes without a valid excuse. Plus, it's often very difficult to do well in a class if you never show up, and you're paying a lot of money for these classes! Make sure you get the most out of them that you can.

#12: You'll Have More Social Opportunities

Even if you were a social butterfly in high school, you'll have tons more opportunities to be social and make friends in college. There will be sports teams to join, parties to go to, clubs you can be part of, and more. Most colleges are large enough to have something for everyone, so you're bound to find an activity you're interested in, whether that's a recreational hockey team, the student government group, a club focused on promoting renewable energy, and more.

There are also likely many more students at your college than there were at your high school, so your opportunities for making friends will multiply as well. However, you do need to make an effort to get the most out of these opportunities. Push yourself to try new things and strike up conversations with new people, and if you're feeling nervous, just remember that they're likely feeling the same way. Standard questions to ask new people you meet in college include: Where are you from? What dorm do you live in? What are you majoring in? Get ready to ask and be asked these questions a lot!

#13: It'll Be Harder to Stand Out

Once you start college, you won't be a big fish in a small pond anymore, and it'll be harder to stand out from the crowd. While in high school you may have been the star student/athlete/singer, in college you'll be surrounded by many talented classmates, many of whom were also the best at something in high school. Some students struggle with no longer automatically standing out, but there are plenty of benefits to this.

First, you'll be able to bond with other students who are also skilled at your talent. If you were, say, the star drama student at your high school, you may not hold the same position in college, but you can befriend all the other high school drama stars and create some awesome shows together.

Additionally, some students like the anonymity being a new college student brings. If you've been labelled as a jock or theater nerd for all of high school, going to college--where people don't know you--allows you to shed or alter that identity if you wish and try new things (or try the same things with less pressure).

#14: You'll Get Fewer Grades in Class

In high school, you probably had daily homework assignments you had to complete and got a grade for. These, along with some larger projects, quizzes, and tests made up your final class grade. If you got a low score in one, it was usually fine since there were plenty of other chances to make up for the low grade.

Once you start college, you may find that many classes have far fewer assignments, meaning you'll receive fewer grades and each of those grades are worth more. Instead of regular homework assignments and quizzes, many college classes are based only on a midterm grade and a final grade. This means you need to take those exams/papers/projects very seriously because if you mess up on one of them it'll be very hard to raise your class grade back to where you want it to be.

#15: You'll Be Doing Lots of Reading

You know those pictures of exhausted-looking students sitting next to a pile of textbooks they need to get through? That's how many college students feel. Expect to do lots of reading in college, including textbooks, journal articles, and literature. If you're majoring in a field like computer science or math you can expect less reading (and more homework), but you're still guaranteed to have at least a few classes where you're assigned to read a couple dozen textbook pages before the next class. You'll get to know your school's library very well.

Tips for Making the Transition From High School to College

Going from high school to college can be tough no matter how excited you are to start at your new school. Below are three tips to help make the transition easier.

Know There Will Be Changes

You've already taken one of the most important steps to prepare for transitioning from high school to college: you're expecting and preparing for the differences. When you know that the high school to college transition will bring major changes, you'll be more prepared for anything that comes your way.

Be Prepared for Some Bumps

Many movies about college make it seem like new college students immediately find a group of close friends, know exactly what they want to study, and have an awesome social life. In reality, it rarely works like this. Many new college students have moments where they feel awkward, lonely, and homesick. This is completely normal; after all you're making a major life change.

By managing your expectations of college and not expecting to love it right away, you can better manage the transition from high school to college and not end up disappointed when it takes a little while to feel comfortable.

Put Yourself Out There

When you first start college, there will be a lot of changes, and it'll be easy to hang out in your dorm room and text with your high school friends. However, you should resist this urge.

College is probably the best time you'll ever have to meet new people and try new things, so you should take full advantage. Keep your dorm room door open to meet your neighbors. Strike up a conversation with your chemistry lab partner. Join a club or sport you've never tried before. Not only will this make the transition from high school to college easier since you'll be meeting more people, you may discover a new friend or hobby.

What's Next?

Not sure which college you want to go to? Check out our guide on choosing the right college so you can make the best decision.

Stressing over college applications? We're here to help! Our step-by-step guide breaks down the complete college application process from start to finish.

Worried about choosing a major on your college applications? Learn how to navigate the process and make an informed decision.

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Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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Transitional Words and Phrases

One of your primary goals as a writer is to present ideas in a clear and understandable way. To help readers move through your complex ideas, you want to be intentional about how you structure your paper as a whole as well as how you form the individual paragraphs that comprise it. In order to think through the challenges of presenting your ideas articulately, logically, and in ways that seem natural to your readers, check out some of these resources: Developing a Thesis Statement , Paragraphing , and Developing Strategic Transitions: Writing that Establishes Relationships and Connections Between Ideas.

While clear writing is mostly achieved through the deliberate sequencing of your ideas across your entire paper, you can guide readers through the connections you’re making by using transitional words in individual sentences. Transitional words and phrases can create powerful links between your ideas and can help your reader understand your paper’s logic.

In what follows, we’ve included a list of frequently used transitional words and phrases that can help you establish how your various ideas relate to each other. We’ve divided these words and phrases into categories based on the common kinds of relationships writers establish between ideas.

Two recommendations: Use these transitions strategically by making sure that the word or phrase you’re choosing matches the logic of the relationship you’re emphasizing or the connection you’re making. All of these words and phrases have different meanings, nuances, and connotations, so before using a particular transitional word in your paper, be sure you understand its meaning and usage completely, and be sure that it’s the right match for your paper’s logic. Use these transitional words and phrases sparingly because if you use too many of them, your readers might feel like you are overexplaining connections that are already clear.

Categories of Transition Words and Phrases

Causation Chronology Combinations Contrast Example

Importance Location Similarity Clarification Concession

Conclusion Intensification Purpose Summary

Transitions to help establish some of the most common kinds of relationships

Causation– Connecting instigator(s) to consequence(s).

accordingly as a result and so because

consequently for that reason hence on account of

since therefore thus

Chronology– Connecting what issues in regard to when they occur.

after afterwards always at length during earlier following immediately in the meantime

later never next now once simultaneously so far sometimes

soon subsequently then this time until now when whenever while

Combinations Lists– Connecting numerous events. Part/Whole– Connecting numerous elements that make up something bigger.

additionally again also and, or, not as a result besides even more

finally first, firstly further furthermore in addition in the first place in the second place

last, lastly moreover next second, secondly, etc. too

Contrast– Connecting two things by focusing on their differences.

after all although and yet at the same time but

despite however in contrast nevertheless nonetheless notwithstanding

on the contrary on the other hand otherwise though yet

Example– Connecting a general idea to a particular instance of this idea.

as an illustration e.g., (from a Latin abbreviation for “for example”)

for example for instance specifically that is

to demonstrate to illustrate

Importance– Connecting what is critical to what is more inconsequential.

chiefly critically

foundationally most importantly

of less importance primarily

Location– Connecting elements according to where they are placed in relationship to each other.

above adjacent to below beyond

centrally here nearby neighboring on

opposite to peripherally there wherever

Similarity– Connecting to things by suggesting that they are in some way alike.

by the same token in like manner

in similar fashion here in the same way

likewise wherever

Other kinds of transitional words and phrases Clarification

i.e., (from a Latin abbreviation for “that is”) in other words

that is that is to say to clarify to explain

to put it another way to rephrase it

granted it is true

naturally of course

finally lastly

in conclusion in the end

to conclude

Intensification

in fact indeed no

of course surely to repeat

undoubtedly without doubt yes

for this purpose in order that

so that to that end

to this end

in brief in sum

in summary in short

to sum up to summarize

Improving Your Writing Style

This is an accordion element with a series of buttons that open and close related content panels.

Clear, Concise Sentences

Use the active voice

Put the action in the verb

Tidy up wordy phrases

Reduce wordy verbs

Reduce prepositional phrases

Reduce expletive constructions

Avoid using vague nouns

Avoid unneccessarily inflated words

Avoid noun strings

Connecting Ideas Through Transitions

Using Transitional Words and Phrases

Babson Students Share Secrets to Navigating the College Transition

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The college adjustment is, well, an adjustment. Between living somewhere new and academic priorities, figuring out how to take care of yourself and meet people can feel like an afterthought.  

“The first year of college is overwhelming as well as exciting and challenging, especially as students acclimate to a new environment … and, for many, learn to live on their own for the very first time,” says Ryan Travia, associate vice president for student success at Babson College.  

With this life change comes experiences you maybe didn’t encounter in high school. While it can feel unique to you at the beginning, it’s an experience upperclassmen and the entire Babson community can speak to with the knowledge that it does get easier.  

The adjustment may be common, but your specific Babson concoction is entirely yours. Fellow Babson students shared how they found their footing while navigating their first year. 

Reject the Timeline  

After high school, you may notice that life gets less linear. There is no strict timeline for when life events are meant to happen. 

“It takes time to find your people on campus,” Julia Marcelis ’27 says. “I didn’t meet most of my best friends until second semester, and I wish I’d known how normal that is during my first year.” 

The key is to be patient and kind with yourself as you navigate both new schedules and emotions. 

“Most students end up feeling homesick or unsure of what to do next when they first get to college,” Maddie Stoltz ’27 says. “I recommend taking things at a pace that feels comfortable for you. It can be as simple as joining a club to meet new people or putting together a daily schedule to help you keep track of classes and assignments.” 

Ask for Help   

It’s simple advice, but finding courage sometimes means finding the right resource. 

Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) offers reoccurring counseling sessions, same-day sessions, short-term therapy, referrals to off-campus resources, an emergency hotline, and access to a wraparound service called Uwill. All these services are free and confidential. 

“When I was extremely homesick last semester, I was able to get a same-day appointment and process my feelings with a professional,” Marcelis says. “It was incredibly useful, and I highly recommend working with CAPS when you need support.” 

While CAPs offers professional guidance , you also have access to trained, kind students ready to offer advice and support in a safe manner. That includes Peers on Wellness (POW) , a student-run organization that promotes health and wellness on campus, and residence hall staff .  

“Being able to talk to other students about the struggles you might be facing without the fear of embarrassment is super important,” Will Holland ’26 says. “(POW and resident assistants) do a good job of being available for all students as they have likely been through similar challenges. I truly believe everyone on this campus is a good resource.” 

Know Where to Look  

Sometimes identifying that right resource is as easy as a Google search or knocking on your RA’s door. Finding events and groups on campus may take more finesse. Within any given week, Babson organizations and offices hold events ranging from career guidance to guest speakers and art installations. 

“It could involve staying an extra minute or two at the mailroom to check out flyers, thoroughly reading the undergraduate emails, or signing up for new email lists,” Everett Steven ’27 says. “Just today, I received information about an AI event through the Butler Launch Pad , the Sustainability Fair, and the weekly events from the Office of Belonging and Inclusion monthly newsletter.” 

“(Peers on Wellness and resident assistants) do a good job of being available for all students as they have likely been through similar challenges. I truly believe everyone on this campus is a good resource.” Will Holland ’26

With over 100 clubs and organizations , you will find something outside of class that speaks to you, whether it’s Greek Life, sustainability initiatives, first-generation student resources , or one of the finance clubs . Pushing yourself to attend at least one event a week is a great way to introduce yourself to new topics. What interests you may surprise you and also guide you through other aspects of college. 

“If you feel nervous speaking in front of crowds and want a low-stress way to practice that, I highly recommend joining Babson’s improvisational comedy group, Students Against Gravity,” Marcelis says. “It’s a fun and relaxing way to try something new and meet cool people.” 

Avoid Overextend ing 

Travia suggests not treating college like high school, especially in regard to extracurriculars. “Try to find one or two activities that fuel your passions and engage meaningfully in those experiences as opposed to signing up for everything and getting stretched too thin,” he says. 

Students like Lilly Bedard ’26 have similar advice. She suggests students find what truly interests them before making full commitments. “Bogging yourself down with a lot of responsibilities will quickly make your experience less than satisfying overall.”

She also recommends meeting with career services early to alleviate stress about internships and your career path. For ways to decompress, she loves to play piano at the Glavin Family Chapel, read on the quad, and explore nearby walking trails .

Ultimately, there’s no equation to make the transition go from difficult to a mere memory. It takes a push out of your comfort zone and patience, but the result will be more than worth it. 

“By exposing yourself to new perspectives and connecting with others, you will encounter exciting opportunities,” Steven says. “Most importantly, you will enjoy your time at Babson.” 

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Harvard Grad Shares The College Essay About McDonalds That Got Him Into Almost Every University He Applied To

"keep in mind that the admissions officer is some dude lying on a couch reading your essay at 10 pm.".

• Megan Quinn

Written on Sep 23, 2024

As high school seniors prepare their college essays, they are often pressured to compose a story about their monumental, life-altering experiences — the more dramatic, the better!

However, the reality is that you don’t have to climb Everest to write an effective essay.

One man proved this with his brief college essay about studying in a local McDonald's, which he credits getting him into nearly every institution he applied to, including Harvard.

A Harvard graduate shared the genius McDonald’s essay that got him into nearly every college he applied to.

Jeffrey Wang , a Harvard alum who graduated as Valedictorian from his high school class in 2015, is assuring modern-day high schoolers that they do not have to craft a masterpiece about how they wrote a symphony while balancing a full course load of honors classes in order to get into college.

RELATED: High-Performing Student Accepted To Duke & USC Reveals Why She Turned Both Down To Go To A State University

He should know — his entire essay was centered around a local McDonald’s restaurant he studied at throughout high school. However, it had quite an unexpected takeaway and humanized him beyond the average applicant attempting to impress recruiters.

Wang shared a screenshot of his essay on X (formerly known as Twitter), and it has since been viewed over 2 million times.

“Some people study best at the library. Others occupy a corner in a coffee shop where inspiration and creativity flow with a cappuccino. Personally, I do some of my best work while sipping a one dollar plus tax McIced Tea at a plastic table on which my laptop and a book rest,” his essay began.

I got into Harvard + almost every college I applied to w/ an essay about studying at McDonalds. Had multiple admissions officers write me handwritten letters complimenting me on it To any frantic high school senior, the best advice I got was - keep in mind that the admissions… pic.twitter.com/94sKmcQGSD — Jeffrey Wang (@wangzjeff) August 8, 2024

“The subtle scent of grease fills my nose, and the shouting of order numbers rings in my ears. I’ve found an unconventional place of contentment beneath the Golden Arches.”  Wang goes on to tell a story about one summer night when he stumbled across his local McDonald’s restaurant and decided to order a meal and sit down for a bit.

As he was eating, he found serenity in all of the hustle and bustle, the aroma of hamburgers and fries, and the sound of children begging their parents for a McFlurry .

“I realize that there is nothing on my mind but my surroundings and my stomach. I’m completely at ease; no pretension exists in this global franchise that has more stores in the world than people in my town,” he wrote. 

After finishing up his meal, Wang went to his car, retrieved his books, and went back inside to study at the same table. It was hours later, when he lifted his head up from his books, that he realized it was the most productive he’d been in months.

Since that summer night, Wang made the McDonald's his go-to study nook.

RELATED: Girl Accepted By Yale And Columbia Despite Only Having A 3.8 GPA Had One Thing On Her Application No One Else Did

While the Harvard grad recognized that McDonald's may not be the ideal place for others to get their work done, he claimed that it was the perfect place for him.

“While attention-catching sights and sounds sometimes divert my attention, they’ve helped me to work by forcing me to focus harder,” Wang wrote.

“Better yet, I’ve found meaningful the array of diversions I’ve experienced, from a conversation with my quirky, retired seventh-grade English teacher about how fast (not quick, he had taught me) life passes by, to companionship with employees here like Milly, who works the cash register, and Maureen, the manager.”

For Wang, McDonald’s became a crucial place for him to escape and study — and it certainly helped that he had some delicious options from the dollar menu!

“For this, McDonald’s speaks to me,” he wrote. “Sometimes, I put my pencil down or stop typing into a Google Doc just to appreciate the simple utility of the location in a sort of wistful way. I see my life as a sort of quest to find ultimate authenticities, and while I know that there will be more truths to discover and that they will most certainly be more difficult to find, my being content at McDonald’s is one conclusive victory.” 

RELATED: College Expert Replies To Kids Who Say Universities With High Acceptance Rates Are For ‘Dumb’ Students

The takeaway from the Harvard graduate's essay was simply that contentment can be found in the most unexpected places — like a McDonalds restaurant.

Wang concluded his essay by declaring that in the chaos of everyday life, many people have difficulty focusing and being content exactly where they are. 

“I’ve learned that contentment can exist in imperfect and unforeseen places when you simply observe your surroundings, adapt, and maybe even eat a french fry,” he wrote.

Wang claimed that some college admissions officers took the time to write him personal handwritten letters praising him for his work and sharing how much they enjoyed it.

He also had a message to high school seniors stressing out about composing a masterpiece essay.

“To any frantic high school senior, the best advice I got was — keep in mind that the admissions officer is some dude lying on a couch reading your essay at 10 p.m.,” he revealed.

“Make sure that this person is entertained and thinks that you're an authentic human being.” 

Teenagers should focus on the profound beauty of ordinary life when composing college entrance essays.

Most 16 or 17-year-olds have never experienced anything earth-shattering, and that's OK. 

Wang illustrated beautifully that college essays do not have to be extraordinary tales to make an impact. They can be as simple as how your morning cup of coffee is your favorite part of the day.

“The truth is that most of us don’t live in a superhero movie where one event just changes the course of our lives,” Pratik Vengal , who offers advice to incoming college students, said in a video. 

Vangal explained, “The most common fallacy that I see online is that you need to have experienced some major disturbance, or grief to write a good college essay, and that’s simply not true.”

“The most successful college essays that I’ve read take a small moment, something even as modest as waiting at the bus stop in the morning, and transform it into an essay that truly shows colleges who you are. Your goal is not to prove your intelligence, they know you’re smart! Colleges want to hear an authentic and genuine story written in your voice.”

When you think about it, college admissions officers have to read over endless paperwork from thousands of applicants. They are more than likely sick of having to read the same essays that deal with fabricated themes of teenagers saving an entire population or curing a mystery illness just to impress them.

They want to read something that is simple, to the point and depicts you as a human being and not an applicant number or a superhero.

As Wang, who is now the co-founder of his very own company, has proven to us, you do not have to have extraordinary experiences to receive extraordinary opportunities.

RELATED: How A High School Student At The Bottom Of His Class With A 2.1 GPA Wrote A ‘Cliche’ Essay About Bowling And Got Into Yale

Megan Quinn is a writer at YourTango who covers entertainment and news, self, love, and relationships. 

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