Professors may not formally take attendance, but they are still likely to know whether or not you attended, especially at smaller colleges where they will get to know you. It’s up to you to get to class, do your homework, and study. Teachers carefully monitor class attendance.ĬOLLEGE: You manage your own time.

HIGH SCHOOL: Your time is usually structured by others: administrators, teachers, coaches, and of course, parents. You will be expected to be up to date on all assigned readings and be able summarize it, so good notes are critical. They may lecture nonstop, have breakout activties, organize in-class assignments, or discuss research about the topic you are studying. HIGH SCHOOL: Teachers present material from textbooks, often writing information on the chalkboard or whiteboard to be copied in your notes.ĬOLLEGE: Professors also present material from textbooks as well as other academic sources. At large universities, classes may be taught by graduate assistants, not professors. Classes are taught by professors typically referred to as 'Doctor' if they have acquired a doctorate in their chosen field. HIGH SCHOOL: Classes generally have no more than 35 students and are taught by teachers.ĬOLLEGE: Depending on the size of college, classes may range in size from 20 to 100+ students. Generally, you'll have a winter break and a spring break, and the spring semester concludes in May. In most cases, the academic year is divided into two 15-week semesters with an additional week after each for exams. Classes are not limited to the day with many classes offered in the evening. The school year is 36 weeks long with a short break in the spring and a long one over the summer.ĬOLLEGE: You spend 12 to 16 hours each week in class, usually with breaks in between. HIGH SCHOOL: You spend on average 30 hours each week in class, proceeding from one class to the next. Understanding some of the important differences and preparing for them will help you achieve a smoother transition. Here are a variety of ways in which high school and college differ.

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