Page 47 - Foundations of Learning, 4th Edition (Revised)

Making the Transition to College and to Becoming a College Student

“Education is not received. It is achieved.” (Unknown)

Now that you’ve had a chance to reflect on who you are at this point in your life, let’s look more closely at
your new college surroundings and your new role as a college student. For many of you, college is a new
environment with all the facets of any new place: a new vocabulary, new people, new buildings and landscape,
and perhaps even different food in the cafeteria. This new experience comes with several guidebooks, though,
and many people who want to see you succeed. The guidebooks include the college web site, college catalog
and Student Handbook, and most likely a college newspaper. Make use of these tools to become familiar
with your college. This will help you feel more “at home.” Remember, this is your college.

For now, we will focus on your college and your place in it. In a group, complete Activity 2.1, at the end
of this chapter. Your instructor may ask you to focus on questions specific to your college or he or she may
ask you to come up with questions students in your group would like to answer.

PROCEED TO ACTIVITY 2.2 (page 53)

Success in college isn’t just about knowing where the library is, although that certainly makes research
easier. There are many college-related and outside pressures facing college students. The following table
illustrates some common pressures. Which ones pertain to you?

Table 2.1 Responsibilities and Challenges Facing College Students

managing managing making decisions
your time your money on your own

being independent being self-reliant being assertive

handling adult solving problems developing leadership
responsibilities in various contexts attributes and qualities

making social choosing mutually handling peer influences
adjustments supportive relationships and pressures

examining and/or dealing with loneliness dealing with home
changing value systems and/or homesickness and family issues

maintaining making choices about coping with stress
personal wellness alcohol and drugs and pressure

learning in communicating adjusting study habits
large classes with professors appropriately

finding a role seeking assistance maintaining balance
model or mentor

Chapter 2 — Strengthening Identity 41