Personal Narrative: Go Back To College

GO WOLF PACK!! How I wish I could go back, to my carelessness and worry free days. Those were the days; the days my parents always told me I would eventually miss but yet took for granted. If I could go back, I would most definitely do things differently. High-school without a doubt is such a different experience compared to college in many aspects. There is far more freedom, it was not as difficult and it doesn’t require funds, but it certainly was not “High School Musical.”

In addition, high school was a time to explore, whereas, college is a time to experience. From childhood to adulthood. There is so much liberty in college both spiritually and physically. Our parents are not around to make to monitor our every move. My social life increased

and I had the liberty of going out every night, but that was draining and I had to prioritize what was important. In college, I make my own schedule and attend the classes necessary mainly because most of the curriculum is online but most courses do not require class attendance. I have the liberty to do things on my own time. Unlike, high school where I had the obligation to attend everyday which I derided. College is just far more flexible when it comes to courses. Moreover, with freedom comes great responsibility I learned that the hard way. You really have to learn to manage your time and really just learn to balance your life. Freshman year in high school, I remember wanting to fit in and being like my “cool” friends but as the years went on I realized that they were exactly the opposite of what I wanted to be. In high school, we often strive to be like everyone else, whereas in college you want to do the exact opposite; just be yourself.
Furthermore, my college experience compared to my high school experience has been an eye opener. After high school, you’re perspective on the world changes. You watch your friends drift apart; as we all take different paths in life. Your social life increases Things become a lot harder including the curriculum, the work load is much heavier. There is far more prepared, studying, more essays and books. The expectations most definitely increase, due dates and exams are your responsibility to keep up with. The test is not your typical multiple choice as they are often short answers. Therefore, studying is a must! In high school, I never felt the need to get extracurricular help but I must admit that One thing I’ve grown to appreciate is the free tutoring we are given here at The College of Central Florida, it truly is helpful!
Nonetheless, college is very costly, it can leave you broke and in debt. Books alone can cost you hundreds of dollars. Whereas high school it is inexpensive, they provide everything for you. I never thought I would spend over five hundred dollars on books. My first semester in college has most definitely taught me to better manage my money and time. Time is money, money is time; you either learn to better manage your time or fail and have to pay to retake the course. Whether in high school or college it’s never a good thing to fail, especially when it means you have to pay to do it again.
Ultimately, college is flexible schedule wise and course wise. It is not as easy as high school curricular wise, it does require a lot more effort. Much more than I’ve probably ever given throughout my whole High-school experience. High school prepares you for life and college changes your life. It is without a doubt an experience worth living, I’ve learned a lot in such a short period of time. You have to be physically and mentally prepared to endure the struggles of a college student which requires tons of Ramon noodles, late nights and early mornings.