Where do the years pass? I began working in the field of education 11 years ago. I was a high school student who took on an after-school teaching position to make some extras cash. Since then, I’ve taught every grade from Kindergarten to Grade 12, with the exception of Grade 2 and Grade 10.
I’ve had the privilege of working with diverse young and exemplary citizens. It seems like just yesterday I was teaching one student in my grade 11 philosophy class. Now, he is in 3rd year university and applying for teacher’s college. Although his dreams and goals are just ahead of him, there are some concerns he shares with many other college/university students. Entering a college/university and joining a new program cites concerns and worries amongst the student populace. Here are just 10 nightmares students fear to face when entering college or a new program.
1. Failing to Meet the Standards:
I share the worries with many students. Universities are competitive and the grades are also harder to earn. To earn an A in a course, the student must work harder and must meet and exceed curriculum expectations. Many students who received A’s in high school faced difficulties in their first year. Their marks at times drop to 60%. With most masters and specialized programs only considering B+ to A students, many panic.
2. Not enough partying:
When asking some students what they thought about their first college experience…many stated that their worst fears have come true. Their social life has been totally eliminated. Their school work has taken over their life 24/7.
3. Not Fitting In:
Many students fear that they would not fit in. Their personalities may clash with the programs, the directors and professors. Many are not used to being in a lecture of 200+ students. They are thus discouraged and feel that university life is just not for them. I know a number of people who gave up in their first year because they did not “fit in”.
4. Being Safe:
Many question whether universities and colleges are safe? Increasing incidents have given fear to those enrolling for the first time. Rape issues, drug issues and violence are some cited worries students have. I was quite worried about being safe when students rallied at my university to protest a political issue. The rally resulted in police brutality and the disruption of classes nearby.
5. Money:
Many students, like me, fear that the costs are too high. Education so far has been provided to students for free. When entering college/university, many face loans and high costs. They thus fear that they will not be able to pay off their debts. Others are worried that they will be kicked out if their bills are not paid on time. I know several students who work full time and study full time to pay-off their expenses.
6. Belcurve:
Many professors follow a belcurve. They need to submit certain percentage of grades which average out to around 70%. Many students worry about the belcurve and being affected by it. Many professors do not help, as they worn students that their grades are unofficial and are subject to change.
7. Dorms:
Dorms are essentially a nightmare. This is especially the case when you share a bathroom and a room with other people. Not everyone is going to be clean. Many students, after hearing rumors, fear of going to out of town/country universities. They hate to be stuck in a horrible situation. The only advantage is the low-cost.
8. Initiation:
There is some kind of myth that stipulates that those students who wish to be popular and want to join organizations, they must go through an initiation process. Whatever it may be, I really think it is a popular culture stereotype. Colleges are fun and full of parties but they are also places of studying. Many students really take their studies seriously…for the most part.
9. Being Homesick:
Some students are close to family. When embarking on a college/university life, they become independent. Many students no longer rely on family to help them make decisions. Many fear that they will become homesick and will not be able to handle the independence.
10. Course Load:
Self-Explanatory and it fits in synonymously with other categories. The only difference here is that many are worried and are lazy to keep up with course loads. They just hate to think of themselves opening up books and reading them, as opposed to have the teacher regurgitate the info.
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