Photo by cottonbro studio

When graduating from high school, most students become very overwhelmed with life coming at them all at once. Students always have to keep the question, “What's next?” in the back of their heads. In this article, I wish to aid in the process to make that transition a bit smoother from high school to college, should that be your post-graduation next step. Here are five essential things for graduating seniors to know before setting foot on campus:

1. Fill out scholarships: 

One of the biggest pieces of advice that I can give to you is to fill out scholarships! College is expensive and government assistance will only give you so much depending on your family income. You also never know if the schools you are applying to will give you aid. There is a possibility you won't get every scholarship you apply for but don't give up because you just never know what you will get! I also would advise seniors to fill out local scholarships. It is okay to go for national scholarships, however, many students will be applying as well so if you apply locally you have a better chance of winning. Filling out scholarships can be a lot at times however it can prevent or lessen your chances of debt.

2. Do your research: 

When picking a school, you are going to spend the next four years of your life at, you want to make sure you like it and that it has what you are looking for. No school is perfect, but you want to make sure it has what you want out of a school realistically. Do your research on the social scene, and the rigorousness of the academics, and make yourself aware of the issues going on with the school so you know what you are walking into. Make sure you look at the living spaces and what is around the school! You don't want to commit to a school, and you end up hating it because there was something you overlooked or did not know about.

3. Talk to current students or alumni that attended your school:

Researching a school can only go so far when you are not physically there to see the inner workings of the campus and the community. However, talking to someone who has been on the campus you are interested in can give you candid insight on the school that you may not get from the internet. They may be more willing, to be honest with you about the school as opposed to only telling you the good things to gain admission. They can also tell you what you may or may not need so that you do not overpack, which many freshmen tend to do.

Photo by Zen Chung from Pexels

4. Join clubs and internships: 

Most times when freshmen get to campus they are not 100% sure what they want to do, which is okay. However, what you don't want to do is wait too long and are set back from graduating college on time. It seems extreme to think about now, but I have personally seen it happen. What I find helpful is to encourage high school seniors to join clubs in high school or do internships to get a feel for what they like, do not like, or what you may consider a career choice. Even if you still do not know what you would like to do when you get to campus, you still have some sort of idea of what you do, not what to do at least. 

5. Enjoy the experience: 

College is an opportunity to meet new people and make friends. Be open to forming connections with fellow students, professors, and staff. Join clubs, attend orientation events, and participate in activities that interest you. Many people tend to get stressed out when transitioning from high school to college. We think about leaving our family and friends and may experience a little anxiety from that. However, I advise every senior to take this moment in and enjoy it because this only happens once in your life. Don't let this transition stress you out and take the fun out of this experience!

Remember that the transition to college is a learning process in itself. Stay adaptable, ask questions, and don't be afraid to seek help when needed. Be initiative-taking in seeking out resources and opportunities that can help you make the most of your time in college.

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