“I’ve Gotta Be Me”
Golden Rainbow, Steve Lawrence; lyrics by Walter Marks
By Karyn Brodsky
As high school comes to an end, students strive to break free from the typical mold and truly showcase their individuality as they prepare for college.
Dr. Cary Israel, a current member of the Executive Advisory Board and consultant for CampusWorks in Sarasota, FL, and former College President at Collin College and various other institutions, has overseen numerous high school-to-college transitions throughout his extensive career.
“At Collin College, I launched a program called ‘Destination College,’ which featured a preparedness booklet, presentations from experts, and open discussions for students in 11th and 12th grades, along with their parents,” Israel notes. “It focused on how to get ready for college, including talks from ACT and SAT representatives, financial advisors, and financial aid guidance available in both Spanish and English.” He discussed key factors to consider when selecting a college, such as campus size, available majors, types of housing, extracurricular offerings, safety, campus sexual assault statistics, and whether or not freshmen should be allowed to bring cars to campus—he advised against it, believing cars might be used to run errands for others or to transport students who had been drinking.
Israel also emphasizes the importance of schools that provide concurrent enrollment or dual credit courses to help high school students adjust to college-level demands. He suggests, “Spend a weekend in the dorm at the college or university. Avoid rooming with your best friend. Broaden your perspectives and experiences.”
Deanie Kepler, Director of Parent and Family Programs at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, assists parents during orientation to help prepare their children for the transition to college. “Students are navigating emerging adulthood, and their brains are still developing, meaning they need to hone their decision-making and executive functions,” she indicates. “They must learn to recognize the necessity of preparing for various challenges and equip themselves with new skills for managing time, utilizing textbooks, attending classes, studying, and taking exams.”
Kepler encourages parents to collaborate with their children to foster independence and enhance decision-making capabilities. Key focuses should include:
– Time management
– Financial responsibilities (monitoring bank account balances, using ATMs, managing credit or debit cards)
– Organizational proficiency for handling important forms and records
– Personal care and wellness (sleep, nutrition, healthcare, laundry)
– On-campus safety protocols, as well as discussions surrounding drugs, alcohol, and sexual matters
Parents should address academic performance proactively, reinforcing their love, trust, and belief in their children’s capability. In the event a student receives a poor grade, they should be urged to utilize campus resources: consult with their professor or teaching assistant, meet with a guidance counselor, or access tutoring services, whether on campus or through private tutors. Kepler emphasizes that leveraging available campus resources can significantly ease the transition from high school to college and contribute to ongoing success.
