subject: High School Versus College [print this page] There are many differences between high school and college. First is the environment. High school is where you can get all the guidance from teachers whereas in college, you need to be more independent in life. In high school, what you basically have to do is sit down and listen to what the teacher have to say. However in college, do not expect any spoon-feeding from anyone including your lecturers. Lecturers expect you to participate in class to give ideas on what he or she is lecturing. You need to have initiative in participating in the class activities.
Second on the list is freedom. In high school, you are restricted to all kind of rules. For example, you need to wear a uniform and follow all the school rules. In colleges, you are free to do whatever you like but of course, please do not harm anyone. There won't be anyone to shout at you on what to do and what not to do.
Thirdly is the work given by the school and college. In high school, the work given refers to homework because it is a task given by teacher to their students in daily basis. They need to bring it back home to complete it. In colleges however, they are referred to as assignments because they are given to students to solve a problem related to the course that they are taking. It is said that assignments help them prepare for working life. Assignments usually have a specific deadline. It is common for college students to do the assigned work at the very last minute.
Fourth on the list is the social life. There are only few co-curriculums activities in high school. They are specially designed to cater for academic purposes. In colleges, there are ample clubs, organizations and parties for you to join. However it is important to balance between academic and social activities. There are many students who find it hard to balance these, therefore it affects their studies.
Finally, there is the decision making. Parents usually make decision for their children. They make decisions based on what they think is the best for their children. However as children grow older and enter college life, they cannot rely on their parents anymore. They need to make their own decisions and bear all consequences themselves.
