Most Confusing Aspect of College Life?

Hey everyone, as I'm beginning to narrow down my college list, I'm trying to anticipate any hurdles that might come my way. Could you share, from your perspective, what the most confusing part of college was for you? Was it adjusting to the campus, navigating resources, finding classes, or something else entirely?

As someone deeply involved with college life, I've found that adjusting to a new level of independence and self-management can be one of the most challenging aspects. College is hugely different from high school in that you are largely responsible for managing your own time. You're deciding when to study, eat, exercise, socialize, work, and sleep. It can be daunting at first to figure out a schedule that works for you, while also fulfilling all your academic responsibilities. There's a lot of trial and error in this process.

Adding to this, scaling the barrier of self–advocacy can be tricky. In high school, you usually have teachers and parents to guide and remind you. In college, you shoulder the responsibility of keeping track of assignments, seeking help when you need it, communicating with professors or the financial aid office, etc. Learning to advocate for yourself is vital, but it can be a major adjustment.

Finally, finding a group where you belong, whether it's through clubs, sports, Greek life, or study groups, can sometimes be challenging but also rewarding. Not everyone will find their "crew" immediately, and that's okay. Remember that lots of other students are in the same boat and open to meeting new people. It's a step-by-step process, but eventually, you will form valuable connections that enrich your college experience.