Opinion
University expectations demand more studying
October 25, 2007
With midterms already here, it’s crazy to think that we’ve been in college for seven weeks now. Time sure does fly when you’re having fun. Fun is exactly what college is, too. However, it seems easy to get carried away with all the fun that’s available and forget about what we’re really here for.
College definitely requires more study time and a larger commitment than high school did. I have been feeling the stresses of all these midterm tests. Sometimes it’s hard to say no to those offers that seem like “once in a lifetime opportunities.” Living in the dorms, I encounter many different types of people who all have their own personal study styles. Some people really get into homework and never come out of their rooms. However, this will probably leave them with only half of the college experience. Others spend a much smaller portion of their time studying.
As for me, I’m trying to find a balance between work and play. We must remember that we are of course here to enjoy our time and meet new people, but more than that we need to learn something. I know that it’s hard to sit in a quiet room and read, especially when you’re tired from a long day of class or possibly some extra curricular activities.
Being a freshman, I understand what you are all going through. This whole three hours of homework to one hour of class is nothing short of a culture shock from our senior year of high school.
In my personal experience, I’ve noticed that those who get their work done and focus on what is the main priority generally become more successful in life. I’m sure we all have someone whom we look up to and admire for their accomplishments—which can really help motivate us in these times of discouragement.
For me it’s my mom. Cliché, I know, but she really is an amazing person. She went back to college when she was 35 and was still able to get straight A’s, be a wife and mother, work and run a household successfully. I can’t help but think if someone with all that on their plate can do well in college, then there is nothing holding me back.
So remember, freshman, even if it seems like all this studying is going to kill you, just keep with it. Whoever it is that you look up to, keep looking. Without even knowing it they will help you a lot throughout your education. And maybe you’ll be that motivator to someone else someday. Even as the times get hard, it’s important to stay focused and keep your goals in mind. We are an amazing group of students, and I know that each of us is capable of doing anything we put our mind to.
Linda Abel is double-majoring in marketing communications and business communications with an emphasis in professional organization. In her free time she likes to dance, watch movies, hang out with friends and spend time with family.