One of the major expectations of college life is independence and freedom. Many students look forward to the newfound freedom that comes with living on their own and making their own decisions. However, the reality can be quite different. While it is true that college provides more independence than high school, it can also be overwhelming to manage all aspects of one's life without parental guidance. Additionally, the newfound freedom can come with added responsibilities, such as managing finances and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Therefore, while independence and freedom are certainly a part of college life, it is important to recognize that the reality may not always match up with expectations.
Another expectation of college life is the opportunity to meet new people and make lifelong friends. College is often seen as a time to expand one's social circle and form meaningful connections with others. While this can certainly be the case, the reality is that making friends in college can be more challenging than expected. It takes time and effort to build strong relationships, and not everyone will become lifelong friends. However, it is important to remember that everyone is in the same boat and to keep an open mind when meeting new people. College can still provide opportunities to form meaningful connections and build a strong support system.
Pursuing passions and career goals is another expectation of college life. Many students enter college with a clear idea of what they want to study and what career path they want to pursue [9]. However, the reality is that the path to achieving these goals may not be straightforward. It can take time to figure out one's passions and interests, and the job market may not always align with one's career goals. Additionally, the pressure to pursue one's passion can perpetuate inequality and be exploited by employers. Therefore, while pursuing passions and career goals is a valid expectation of college life, it is important to recognize that the reality may not always be as straightforward as expected.
One of the biggest challenges of college life is finding a balance between academic responsibilities and social activities. While it may seem overwhelming at first, it is possible to find a healthy balance between the two. Getting involved in clubs and organizations, as well as striking up conversations with new people, can help students create a fulfilling social life while still prioritizing their academic work. However, it is important to remember that college can be challenging, and time management is crucial. Students must take responsibility for their own success and prioritize their academic work to achieve their goals. Universities also offer success and wellness coaches to help students manage their physical and mental well-being.
Financial struggles and stress are also common realities of college life. Personal financial problems can be a significant source of stress for college students. According to the 2018 Healthy Minds Survey, 35% of US college students report their current financial situation as stressful. Financial stress can make it harder for students to earn a degree, making it a serious issue. While colleges are responsible for assisting students during a financial crisis, it is important for students to take proactive steps to manage their finances and seek help when necessary.
Coping with homesickness and mental health challenges can also be a reality for many college students. Homesickness is normal and can be managed by scheduling visits home and looking at the time as an exciting opportunity. However, a lack of clear understanding of university expectations and underlying physical conditions can increase the risk of anxiety and homesickness. Additionally, students with mental illness may find the transition to college to be particularly challenging, but there are resources available to support them. It is important for students to prioritize their mental health and seek help if needed.