Things That Keep Me Awake at Night

I thought it would be worthwhile – at the very least 3-4 times per year – to devote a blog post to college related issues that I find worrisome. Actually way more about the college experience excites me rather than disturbs – yet being the committed idealist that I am – my goal is for all my clients to have a stellar four years. As college counselors we spend countless hours helping students find the perfect college fit. However, come April when the acceptance letters have all gone out and I finally have time to catch my breath – I realize that there is quite a lot of work still left to do! Students have plenty of decisions to make once the final choice of college has been made, i.e., selection of a major, roommate, campus job, Greek life, etc. – I’d like to offer up a few insights that I have compiled over the years which may help pave the way for a seamless transition.

Again, most of the elements of my job are quite fulfilling and “sleep inducing”. What follows is my inaugural list of “sleep reducers” –

Students will stop reading for pleasure.
College freshman are often not prepared for the increased reading assignments associated with their classes as opposed to what was expected of them in high school. This increased workload in addition to all the digital distractions that consume us on a daily basis often leaves little time for pure reading for enjoyment. And, from a strictly utilitarian standpoint, there’s no better way to become an effective writer than by devouring books, and lots of them. College grads with strong expository writing skills are valued by employers regardless of their majors.

The search for the “easy A”.
College students soon figure it out that there are certain courses that have the reputation for being an “easy A”. And while it certainly is a smart move to occasionally enroll in a less demanding class to balance a particularly tough semester, ideally this plan will be the exception rather than the rule. Although over-cited, F. Scott Fitzgerald’s quote about there being no second acts in life rings true in this case – it is unlikely that you will ever have the opportunity again to spend four years exclusively devoted to education. So take a few risks, step outside your comfort zone, and enroll in that class in Shakespeare’s sonnets, Astronomy, or Art History – and see if it ignites a new passion.

Students switch majors and delay graduation.
I’m all for college students switching majors prior to graduation if they discover halfway through say their engineering program that they really are way more passionate about books and literature than they are pocket protectors and algorithms. Much better to have this epiphany while in school than on the job. However, I encourage students to think long and hard before declaring a major – particularly if it’s a subject where many if not most of the required classes cannot be cross-utilized for other majors or to satisfy General Education requirements. Unfortunately, switching majors often means an extra semester or more of time enrolled in college which at today’s prices translates to several thousand dollars more in tuition payments – and for many – college loans.

Students not getting to know their professors.
Getting to know your professors in college is important. Go to their office hours if you need clarification or have questions – not only will it benefit you as a student but it will make a big difference in how your professors view you and your commitment to your schoolwork. Unlike high school – where teachers appear more approachable – college professors can seem intimidating, yet they are generally quite welcoming. And, when it comes time for graduation you will be glad to have these relationships – as you most likely will need recommendation letters for jobs or graduate school. Think twice about spending the semester “head on the desk” asleep or texting with your friends if it means potentially jeopardizing these valuable connections.