Differences Between High School and College

High School vs. College

Academic Support

Parents, teachers, and counselors often take responsibility and arrange for tutors. Requested and arranged by student. Student must be advocate even if college offers academic support.

Competition

Not as great; lower half of class may not attend college. Increase since better students go to college.

Counseling

Parental contact constant. Personalized counseling by teachers and guidance counselors is easily and regularly available. Parental contact is limited and difficult. Students must seek counseling which is often impersonal and difficult to schedule.

Dependence

Student is told what to do in most situations. Follow-up on instructions is usual. Student is on his own. Self-discipline is necessary as warnings and follow-up are often nonexistent.

Discipline

Demanded by parents and teachers. Solely up to the student.

Distractions

Regulations of school and home limit number of distractions. Frequent distractions including parties and sports, leading to neglect of academics.

Freedom

Routines established and enforced by parents, school, and community traditions. Student is responsible for scheduling free time. Time management skills needed.

Motivation

Drive to achieve and participate comes from parents, teachers, counselors, and friends. Drive is completely from within.

New Status

Student’s status in academics and social situations often influenced by family and community factors. Student is in a new situation and is judged solely for himself and by his behavior.

Schedule

At least 30 hours per week of classroom instruction. Regular daily schedule enforced. Usually 12 hours per week of classroom instruction. Attendance often not checked.

Teacher-student contact

Frequent–5 days per week. Less frequent–1-3 days per week.

Value Judgments

Often based on parental values. Student is often given little choice. New dilemnas with serious implications and consequences exist. Outside guidance is often limited.

     
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