Changes in Attitude: Making that Leap from High School to College

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Going off to college is a momentous occasion and a huge change in one’s life. That being said, this massive change can be pretty nerve wracking to think about it. I know when I was a high school senior, I was concerned on how to adjust to college life. Now, I am here to give you a couple tips that may help you start to make that change!


Academics

As many of you approach the end of your senior year, it may be more challenging to keep up with work as the dreaded “senioritis” takes over. Even though it may be difficult, I would suggest overcoming that “senioritis,” and staying on top of school! Although college is not only about school work, it is obviously a huge part of your college experience. Continuing to work hard throughout high school will certainly help your adjustment to college academics!

In addition, Purdue offers many resources for you if you happen to be struggling in a class. For example, the Women in Engineering Program offers tutoring for all first year engineering students. Being open and willing to accept this is essential to your learning experience. I know as a former college freshman myself, I was hesitant to take advantage of these resources. However, to succeed in my classes, I began to go to office hours and noticed massive improvements in my classes.

Dorm Life

One of the biggest adjustments for students is living in residence halls; however, with proper preparation, this adjustment can be pretty smooth! The first decision to think about is choosing your roommate, or having a random roommate. Personally, I went random, and my roommate is one of my best friends now! The second choice to think about is if you are joining a “Living and Learning Community.” These programs are a great way to meet people who are sharing similar experiences as you are. The Women in Engineering Program has its own living and learning community that I highly recommend looking into. I made a lot of my friends throughout this program, and always had a constant support system. The last thing is to start thinking about what you will need in your dorm! Looking up “college dorm lists” online was very helpful to me!

Getting Involved

Getting involved at school is one of the most important concepts of college. Many of you may have extracurriculars at your high school now, or play a sport. Continuing these activities is certainly possible at Purdue! Purdue offers over 1,000 organizations for students to get involved. That being said, you can continue your high school hobbies, or even make new ones by joining clubs! If you played a sport in high school, joining intramural or club teams is a great way to continue that athletic experience. There are intramurals such as volleyball, basketball, tennis, and so many more! For me, joining a club, extracurricular, or a program has been essential to my college experience. I have met so many new friends throughout my involvement in activities such as the Women in Engineering Program, the Boiler Book Club, and intramural sports!

Going away to school is a very big change, however it doesn't have to be as nerve wracking as many people think! By starting to change your outlook on going off to college now, making that leap from high school to college will be a smooth transition!

Isa Hollenstein BME '26

WE Link Leadership Team


Stay Connected With Purdue WiE Program!

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