Most of my classes' structure, delivery, and workload had few differences from what I expected. However, one thing that surprised me was how attendance is often not mandatory. Even though I don't frequently miss class, it's nice to have the option of choosing which classes I attend in cases of tests, mental health, etc. The amount of time I had also differed from what I had anticipated. After attending my classes each day, I thought I would spend most of the time on homework, like in high school. However, I have a lot of spare time, which I use to hang out with friends, go to the gym, eat at the dining hall, and participate in clubs. Another difference I expected was that I would only be in lectures with one professor, but I still have small classes where I get to know everyone.
We have been studying various subjects connected to global change in SGC. I was already aware of some of the information, but there were also a lot of fresh thoughts and concepts. Overall, the course has been challenging but not impossible, with a reasonable effort providing you keep up with your homework. SGC places a strong emphasis on experiential learning, which has surprised me. We've got the chance to go on field trips and participate in service projects in addition to the standard debates and lectures in class. I now understand the concepts we learn in class much better because of these practical experiences.
I believe that, for the most part, my university experience has been what I had anticipated. The fact that I have a lot of free time to spend on activities like playing for our Valorant team and going to the gym every day is one aspect of my university life that significantly deviates from what I had anticipated. I worked out every day in high school but never had time to go to a real gym with friends. At UMD, though, I started coming to the gym much more frequently and got stronger. Outside of that part of college life, it was most of what I expected.
If you're an SGC student now or in the future, don't be scared to step outside your comfort zone, and don't worry about how you'll do. Make the most of the chance to have fun and meet new people. Don't worry too much about fitting in; everyone in the program is kind and eager to meet new people. So don't be shy about reaching out and forming some relationships. The SGC program is a fantastic opportunity. Therefore you should take full advantage of it by having fun, conversing intelligently, and focusing on your goals. You can make the most of your SGC experience and forge enduring bonds and memories if you approach it with the appropriate mindset.