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The High School-to-College Transition

Welcome to the University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing! We hope you are as excited about your decision to come to UT as we are about having you. There are many differences between high school and UT that you should think about carefully as you prepare for your first semester. Even if you have been out of high school for several years, your expectations about school may be based on your experience with high school. Therefore, considering the following differences can make a positive change in your academic performance at the University.

Academic Environment

  • Lecture is the main form of instruction in college.
  • Reading assignments complement but do not necessarily duplicate lectures. Reading is often long and complicated.
  • Learning tasks are often less structured and concrete.
  • Class discussions often focus on raising questions with no right or wrong answers. Participation is often a part of the grade.
  • Many classes emphasize understanding theory instead of “facts.” You may be asked to apply what you are learning to new situations!

Grading

  • It takes a lot more work to make an “A.”
  • Simply completing the assignment often earns only a “C” or lower.
  • Grades are often based on just two or three scores per semester.

Responsibility

  • Students must seek out supplementary materials without being explicitly told to do so.
  • Students must manage their own time.
  • Students must recognize for themselves when to seek help.

Stress

  • The pace is fast, and students are expected to keep up.
  • There are new and often increased social pressures.
  • There are often more financial responsibilities.
  • Students have more choices about everything, and more responsibility.

Adapted from Weinstein, Claire E. et al. (September 30, 1988). The High School-to-College Transition. Innovation Abstracts, X, #21, The University of Texas at Austin.

We offer many free services to help you successfully negotiate this transition. Visit the Learning Center web site for information on free learning skills workshops, tutoring, writing/APA assistance, peer mentoring, and academic counseling. Our goal is to support you as you make the transition from high school to college and face the challenge of becoming a UT Nurse.

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