College was nothing like expected. Highschool teachers preached about the lack of compassion in college, how we’d just be another face to professors that had no obligation to further our success. Our grades were to be determined by a few exams, and nothing else. But they couldn’t have been more wrong.
What I found when I came to Maryland was grading schemes that range from exam based to project based. Even my most exam heavy class, CHEM135, has a decent portion of our grades made up by homework and in class clicker questions. Most of my classes (ENES100, ARCH270, and ENGL101) actually revolve around projects or papers, with quizzes sprinkled in. Lectures are common, but certainly not the only form of education here. This will most likely shift towards a more exam focused grading scheme in later semesters, but it is nice to have a transition period for the first year or two. Overall, the vast diversity in class structure was a surprise to me.
Another great surprise was just how receptive and understanding the faculty here is. From the fantasy I was told highschool teachers, I was expecting a ruthless group of faculty who were uninterested in my success. Instead, I found a group of faculty devoted to my success. Most professors are very understanding and willing to work with you during office hours, or give you an extension when needed. This is especially helpful considering most students are new to this kind of workload.
Within Science and Global Change, my expectations were off again. I expected the lectures to solely focus on climate change, but instead we have explored that and many other topics of earth science. The meaning and goals of science itself were even topics we explored.
Our out of classroom activities were all enjoyable experiences, more so than expected. I came into each dragging my feet, but ended up enjoying myself every time. They were a chance to get to know other SGC members and learn something at the same time.
College life is about as expected. The thing to note with college life is that it is what you make of it. The college experience is going differ widely depending on your friend group and how adventurous you are. Some people spend their weekends at home or relaxing in their dorms, while others go out and explore College Park and DC. For me it’s an inbetween, often spending weekends in the dorms with my friends or occasionally going out to celebrate a special occasion.
To those coming into college, I suggest to try and just relax. College is just another step in life, and you are ready. Adjusting to classes shouldn’t be very challenging top those who form good study habits in highschool. Instead, the toughest part is the social aspect. Everyone is out of their element, among new people on a huge campus. The best thing I can say is to accept the change and make new friends. Start with people on your floor, your scholars program, and in your classes.