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School Life Vs College Life: Let’s Compare The School and College Lives

School and College life are two very distinct phases of life. School life prepares you to be an adult. College life teaches you how to actually adult. Both experiences are fun in their own ways and offer very unique experiences. It is definitely a tough question to answer when someone asks you which life was better. You’ve had your share of fun and experiences in both and will cherish it throughout your life. Although, everyone’s answers do differ. So how do we know the difference between School Life Vs College Life?

school life Vs College life

We have listed the most common experiences that almost everyone would have experienced in their school or college life. We do not want to know which life is better, we just want to bring back those memories. Good or bad, everything has helped shape us into what we are today. So let us forget everything and just appreciate the experiences we have had. This comparison of School Life Vs College Life will help you decide which life you like the most if you want to. If not, you can just read through and we are sure it will bring a smile to your face if not for a drop of tear.

Comparison of School Life Vs College Life

School life and college life are poles apart from each other. In school, you are treated as a child, you have friends from childhood and the dream of your ideal job. But in college, you are suddenly treated as an adult, have limited but true friends, work on building a career and pray to be a child again. These feelings are very common in a college-goer or any adult for that matter.

Now, let us quickly compare School Life Vs College Life and refresh our memories, shall we?

Table of Contents

1. Attendance

School: Attendance is taken once a day. After that, you are bound to stay in class/ school until it is time to go home. You cannot miss classes and go out of college. Your teachers call you out for not participating in class. You know all your teachers and they all know you. Teachers focus on students individually.

College: Attendance is taken during every lecture. It is up to you which lecture you want to attend and which you want to miss. Most colleges have a rule that a student must have a minimum of 75% attendance in a subject to write exams. You can participate in classes, or sit there as a silent spectator and no one questions you.

2. Assignments

School: There is homework every day. Students are required to study and write notes, worksheets, projects, and assignments on a daily basis. Though, the workload for each day would be less. Students find time to finish their homework and also play after school. The homework given in school was more of a learning experience.

College: Though you are not given an assignment each day, the frequency of assignments is often. There are presentations, research, projects, assignments, etc. These are very challenging as compared to school. The experience is more of a research nature. You will not find all your answers in a textbook.

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School: Your teachers and parents constantly remind you to study. They are always pushing you to be better and score better marks. You do not choose when you graduate. There is a specific time of when exams will be conducted and at what age you will complete your schooling.

College: It is up to you to decide when you want to study, or if you want to even study or not. No one reminds you or forces you to sit down with your books. The colleges give you a time frame within which you can take up exams. You are in full control of your grades and when you graduate.

4. Class size

School: You generally have a small class size of 30 – 50 students. Everyone is paid attention individually. Generally, you know everyone in your class and school. All teachers recognize you.

College: The class sizes are generally huge (80 to 100 students or more). Lecturers do not pay attention to all students individually. The students are responsible for their learning. No one forces them or calls them out. You hardly know anyone in class or college.

School: During school, you mostly live with your parents. Even if you live in a hostel, you will be in a school hostel. The school decides who your roommates will be. And hostel warden is generally very strict at the school level.

College: Most college students stay in hostels or PGs. You have roommates from different classes, different streams, or sometimes even different colleges. It is here that you make amazing friends, who stay for life. You get to choose who you want to live with and where you want to live.

School: In school, you would wear your uniform every morning. Everyone in school was required to wear the same uniform to maintain disciple and uniformity among students. No matter how much you disliked it, you never had the tension to choose an outfit to look cool,

College: You get to wear what you want to. There is no uniform in colleges. You only have a dress code that you need to follow. There is always a tension to not repeat outfits and wear what makes you look cool, not comfortable. But no matter what, we all enjoyed dressing up for college.

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7. Waking up

School: You would wake up early in the morning for school. Get dressed and head to school. Reach school before the bell rings and take part in the assembly. Reaching late to school was punishable.

College:  You wake up when you want to. You try to reach college when the first lecture starts, but do not always make it. You go in and come out of college anytime you want to.

School:  You were never tensed about money matters in school. You did not have major expenses and most of it was taken care of by your parents. You used to receive pocket money for small expenses, snacks, and other entertainment.

College: You have many expenses that you need to take care of. You do not even take pocket money from your parents. Generally, college students prefer to find an internship or a part-time job to fund their expenses. You run on a budget and try limiting your spending. Nonetheless, you enjoy and do everything you want to do.

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In conclusion, school life vs college life have a lot of differences. But both have their own memories and experiences that we cannot trade for each other. People say that you can never forget your school life and college life, and it is true. You always want to go back to that phase in life. But school life vs college life will always be a question we will not find an answer to.

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College life is more of the realities you get to phase. School was all about the place where teachers often helped you even during your rights whereas in college, it’s like a fun thing for people when you complaint about someone. Anyday school life was just better but in college, you need to be matured. I am in college and completed my schooling but personally school was anyday better. Proffesors in college are surely great as they make a person learn not only for grades which was in school. People think college life will be bollywood but surely it’s not as surely you need to face a lot of people and study well for making life perfect. Dressing in dress code is a mandatory thing if you are a law student but thankfully not everyday. You do not have every school friend to talk with however some are surely there as many friends get busy in life.

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School Life vs. College Life

There is a great deal of difference between school life and college life. School life is a life of restrictions and control, a life in which the student has to be accountable for his daily work with his teachers and his guardian. But a college student, on the other hand, enjoys a much greater freedom from control and supervision; he is, to a very large extent, the master of his own destiny. It lies with him to make it or mar it.

At school, the students have to be in attendance for fixed hours every day. He has to leave home at ten or eleven and return at four at college, however, the hours of attendance vary. Sometimes, a college student has a hard time in the morning to gulp his food; at others, he has enough time to lounge about for a few minutes after a leisurely meal. On some days he returns early from college; or others, it is late evening by the time he gets back home. He has ample time at his disposal to use, abuse, or misuse.

At school, the student has to prepare his daily lessons and may be taken to task for what he has left undone. But at college, he can do his lessons daily, or not at all, as fancy may please or conscience may dictate. He is left to his own resources; he must understand his difficulties, and find out ways and means to remove them. He must, for the most part, depend upon himself, and take the help of a friend or a teacher only as his means and circumstances permit. In one respect, however, school life is more joyous than college life.

A student can run about and exercise his limbs in school more vigorously than at college. The sight of boys shouting and running down the staircase or the corridors or in the school quadrangle is something that one will seldom find in a college. College boys are either boisterous and rowdy or grave and decorous. They are must behave as grown-up people. Of course, it the college happens to have its playgrounds, they can go there after college hours and take part in regular games. Nowadays every college has a gymnasium to help student s build the ‘body beautiful’. A college, in other words, may not permit uproarious merriment, but it often gives larger opportunities for organized games sports.

Another respect in which school life and college life differ is in the use of the library and the common room. In most of our school libraries seem to be more for show than for use. Books are issued now and ten for use. Books are issued now and then, but such occasions are few and far between. But in most colleges, there are larger opportunities for using the library. One has also greater freedom in the choice of books. As to the common room, that is the exceptional privilege of students; most of our schools do not provide a common-room because boys are in their classes during the whole period of work.

It is natural that these differences between school life and college life should develop different mental and moral qualities. At school, students acquire habits of discipline and regularity. They have to practice obedience and follow instructions. But at college students are expected to develop a sense of responsibility and personal initiative. In other words, what a school student has to do under com-pulsing is done by the college students out of his greater sense of responsibility. Of course, it has to be admitted that college life offers greater scope to a student to go astray. If he takes himself light-heartedly, he will have to suffer. If he allows arrears of studies to accumulate he will pay the price with failure and disgrace. Hence a studious pupil improves more rapidly at college than at school, but a waster comes quicker to grief.

If I am asked to choose between school life and college life, it will not be something very easy. At school, I looked with envy and expectation at my serious and the ample freedom they enjoyed both at home and outside. Now at, the college I look back sometimes to those days when I could ‘feel my life in every limb’ and I was full of laughter add merriment than I can ever be in life. For somehow I have a feeling that the gracious, sun-lit days of gaiety, thoughtlessness, and the care-free pursuit of knowledge will soon be over, and it is not for me anymore to give way to ‘the loud laughter that speaks the vacant mind’. And yet perhaps, in a final view, college life, in spite of its cares and burdens, is the most pleasant and exciting period in one’s life. The sense of freedom, if nothing else, is in itself a tonic and an incentive to higher things.

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High School vs. College: Contrasts and Comparisons

  • October 26, 2023
  • Office of Outreach and Relationships

high school vs college life

High school and college have distinct differences and similarities that shape students’ academic and social experiences. From the structure of the education system to the level of independence and responsibilities , navigating the transition from high school to college can be challenging. This article will explore the key contrasts and comparisons between high school and college life based on factual data from various sources.

General Differences between High School and College

High school and college have several fundamental differences that shape the experiences of students. One of the most significant differences is the mandatory nature of high school education compared to the voluntary nature of college education. In high school, education is mandatory and typically provided free of charge. However, college education is voluntary and often comes with a significant financial cost.

Mandatory vs. Voluntary Education

In high school, students have their time and schedules structured by others, such as teachers and parents. They follow a predetermined curriculum and have limited flexibility in choosing their classes. On the other hand, college students have greater autonomy and responsibility for managing their time and selecting their courses. They have the freedom to create their schedules based on their academic and personal goals.

Structured Time vs. Self-Management

Another key difference between high school and college is the level of structure in students’ daily lives. In high school, students have a set schedule with fixed class times and designated breaks. They are guided by teachers and parents in how to manage their time effectively. In contrast, college students have more flexibility in managing their time. They have different class schedules and breaks between classes, allowing them to allocate time for studying , extracurricular activities, and personal commitments.

Overall, the transition from high school to college involves a shift from mandatory education to voluntary education and from structured time to self-management. This transition can be challenging for students, as they navigate the newfound independence and responsibilities that come with college life.

Identifying and Disclosing a Disability: High School vs College

One of the major differences between high school and college is how disabilities are identified and disclosed. In high school, education is considered a right, and it is the responsibility of the school district to identify students with disabilities. Individualized Education Plans ( IEPs ) are developed to provide necessary supports and services to these students. However, in college, education is not a right, and students must take the initiative to self-identify to Disability Services.

In high school, the process of identifying a student’s disability is usually initiated by teachers, parents, or school counselors. The student may undergo assessments and evaluation to determine their eligibility for special education services. Once the disability is identified, an IEP is created, outlining the accommodations and support the student needs to succeed academically. These services are typically provided at no cost to the student.

On the other hand, in college, students are responsible for identifying and disclosing their disabilities to the appropriate office or department on campus, often called Disability Services or Accessibility Services. Students must provide appropriate documentation of their disability to support their request for accommodations. Unlike in high school, college does not have special education programs, and no fundamental alterations of program or curricula are required. Instead, colleges provide reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access to education.

Documentation and Support in College

When disclosing a disability in college, students need to provide documentation from a qualified professional, such as a medical doctor or licensed psychologist. This documentation should include a diagnosis, a description of the functional limitations caused by the disability, and recommendations for appropriate accommodations. It is important for students to understand that college disability offices may have specific guidelines and requirements for documentation, so it is crucial to familiarize themselves with these guidelines before seeking accommodations.

It is worth noting that while students with physical or medical disabilities may require specific accommodations, such as accessible classrooms or housing arrangements, colleges generally do not provide personal services, such as personal aides or attendants. Instead, colleges focus on providing academic accommodations, such as extended time for exams, note-taking support, or assistive technology, to ensure that students with disabilities have an equal opportunity to succeed academically.

Tests: High School vs College

When it comes to testing, high school and college have distinct differences in terms of frequency, makeup tests , and review sessions . In high school, testing is frequent and covers smaller amounts of material. Teachers often provide makeup tests for students who were absent or need a second chance. Additionally, review sessions are commonly conducted by teachers to help students revise important concepts before exams.

In contrast, testing in college is less frequent and may cover larger amounts of material. Professors typically do not offer makeup tests , making it crucial for students to be present on test days. Moreover, professors may or may not provide review sessions . When review sessions are offered, active participation and preparedness are expected from students.

These differences in testing patterns between high school and college highlight the increased level of independence and self-reliance that college students must develop. They need to manage their time efficiently and ensure they are well-prepared for exams without relying on regular makeup tests or extensive review sessions.

Grades: High School vs College

In high school, grades play a significant role in the overall evaluation of a student’s performance. Most assigned work is graded, including homework , class participation, and quizzes. Good homework grades can often compensate for lower test grades , allowing students to maintain a strong GPA. Additionally, many high school teachers offer extra credit projects as an opportunity for students to boost their grades.

However, the grading system in college is quite different. Professors typically focus their evaluation on major exams, papers, and projects, and may not assign grades for all assigned work. Test grades and major assignments have a more substantial impact on the final course grade. College students need to consistently perform well on these assessments to achieve a higher overall grade.

Furthermore, extra credit projects may not be available in college to help raise grades. Instead, students must rely on their performance on tests and major assignments. It’s crucial to start off strong in college, as initial test grades can significantly influence the final course grade. It’s also important to note that each department may have specific standards that students must meet in order to graduate.

Classes: High School vs College

One of the key differences between high school and college is the structure of classes. In high school, students typically spend an average of 30 hours per week in class, following a structured schedule. Classes are generally small, with no more than 35 students, allowing for more individualized attention from teachers. These teachers usually present material from textbooks , providing a structured and consistent learning experience.

In contrast, college class time varies, with breaks between classes and a more flexible schedule. Class sizes can range from 20 to over 100 students, depending on the course and the size of the university. Professors often present material from various academic sources, including textbooks , research articles, and multimedia resources. This diversity in teaching styles and sources of information encourages students to engage critically with the material.

Moreover, the responsibility for managing study time and completing assignments outside of class falls on the college student. Unlike in high school, where teachers often remind students of incomplete work, professors may not always check completed homework . College professors are usually open and helpful, but they expect students to take the initiative and seek assistance during scheduled office hours. Additionally, college students may have access to resources like academic skills centers or writing centers for additional support.

Homework and Assistance: High School vs College

One major difference between high school and college is the approach to homework and the level of assistance provided. In high school, teachers often check completed homework and remind students of incomplete work. They are proactive in identifying students who may need additional help and offer assistance. However, in college, professors may not always check completed homework, but they expect students to perform the same tasks on tests. It is essential for college students to take responsibility for completing their homework and thoroughly understanding the material.

In high school, teachers typically approach students if they believe assistance is needed. They provide guidance and support to help students succeed academically. In contrast, professors in college are usually open and helpful, but they expect students to take the initiative and seek assistance during their scheduled office hours. This shift in responsibility empowers college students to become independent learners and seek help when needed.

While in high school, students may have benefited from additional resources such as academic skills centers or writing centers for extra assistance, college students have access to similar resources on campus. These resources can provide guidance with writing, study skills, and subject-specific tutoring. It is important for college students to take advantage of these resources and seek the help they need to succeed academically.

Studying: High School vs College

Studying is an essential part of academic success, and the approach to studying differs between high school and college. In high school, students are typically assigned short reading assignments that are discussed in class, and studying often takes place during class time or study halls. However, in college, students are assigned substantial amounts of reading and writing that may not be directly addressed in class.

College students are expected to engage with the material outside of lectures and dedicate significant time to studying outside of class. This includes regular review of class notes and active reading of assigned textbooks and other readings . Studying in college requires self-discipline and independent learning, as students must take full responsibility for their academic progress.

While high school may provide more guidance and structure in terms of studying, college students have the opportunity to develop stronger critical thinking and research skills through self-directed studying. It is important for college students to actively seek support and resources, such as consulting with professors, teaching assistants, and tutoring services, to enhance their studying strategies and academic performance.

Class Materials: Textbooks and Readings: High School vs College

In high school, textbooks are provided at no expense to students. This means that students have access to the required reading materials without having to worry about the financial burden of purchasing textbooks. However, in college, textbooks and class materials can be quite expensive, often requiring substantial funds from students. College students are typically assigned multiple chapters of textbooks per week, along with additional research papers and readings .

One significant difference between high school and college is that reading assignments in college are often not directly addressed in class. This means that students need to engage with the material outside of lectures and take responsibility for their own learning. It requires self-discipline and the ability to manage time effectively in order to complete the required readings and understand the content.

The cost of textbooks is another factor that distinguishes high school from college. While high school students are provided textbooks free of charge, college students often have to budget for the expense of purchasing their own textbooks. This can add up to a significant cost over the course of a semester or academic year. As a result, college students may need to be strategic in their textbook purchases, considering options such as renting or buying used textbooks to save money.

Social Life in High School vs College

College offers a new social landscape compared to high school. It is a time of exploration and self-discovery, where students have the opportunity to meet new friends and form lasting connections. In high school, social interactions are often limited to classmates and a smaller circle of friends. However, in college, the possibilities for socializing are endless.

In college, students can meet new friends through various channels, such as living or studying spaces, classes, extracurricular activities, and part-time work. The social calendar in college is usually more active and diverse, offering a wide range of events and opportunities to socialize. College also brings together a more diverse student population, with individuals from different backgrounds and ages, providing a rich tapestry of perspectives and experiences.

While high school may foster close-knit relationships, college offers the chance to expand social circles and explore different interests. Students have the freedom to choose their own social groups and engage in activities that align with their passions and goals. College is a time of personal growth and development, where students can embrace their individuality and find their place in a larger community.

Independence and Responsibilities: High School vs College

One of the significant differences between high school and college is the level of independence and responsibilities that students experience. In high school, students rely on parents, teachers, and coaches to guide their time and activities. They have a structured schedule and are often reminded of their responsibilities. However, in college, students have increased freedom and must take on the responsibility of managing their own time.

College life requires students to balance their academic commitments, part-time jobs, and personal responsibilities. They have the autonomy to make decisions about their schedule, such as when to study, attend classes, and complete assignments. This newfound independence can be both liberating and challenging for students as they navigate their way through a more self-directed educational experience.

Time management becomes crucial in college. Students must learn to prioritize their tasks, set goals, and allocate their time effectively. With multiple responsibilities and deadlines, effective time management skills are essential for success. College students need to develop strategies to stay motivated, avoid procrastination, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Transitioning from high school to college, students often face a learning curve in managing their time and responsibilities independently. However, this shift also presents valuable opportunities for personal growth and development. By practicing effective time management and embracing their newfound freedom, college students can learn to take charge of their education and pave the way for a successful future.

Sports: high school vs college.

College sports often play a significant role in the social life and school spirit of a college. It provides a platform for students to come together, showcase their athleticism, and create a sense of community. While not all colleges have sports teams, those that do offer a wide range of opportunities for students to engage in athletics as players or enthusiastic fans.

College sports events are an exciting part of the overall college experience. They offer opportunities for students to connect with fellow classmates, bond over shared team spirit, and show their school pride. Whether it’s attending basketball games, football matches, or even lesser-known sports, the lively atmosphere and enthusiastic crowds create lasting memories and a sense of belonging.

Engaging in college sports also helps build strong bonds between students, faculty, and alumni. It fosters a sense of camaraderie and community spirit that extends beyond the playing field. Sports teams often serve as ambassadors for the college, boosting its reputation and creating a sense of unity among students and alumni alike.

What are the main differences between high school and college?

High school is mandatory and free, while college is voluntary and can be expensive. High school students have structured schedules, while college students manage their own time. High school students need parental permission for extracurricular activities, while college students decide their level of participation. High school students receive regular reminders and guidance, while college students must balance their own responsibilities.

How do high school and college handle disabilities?

In high school, school districts are responsible for identifying students’ disabilities and developing Individualized Education Plans ( IEPs ). In college, students must self-identify to Disability Services and activate approved services. IEPs from high school may not apply, and personal services for medical/physical disabilities are generally not required.

What are the differences in testing between high school and college?

In high school, testing is frequent and covers small amounts of material. Makeup tests are often available, and review sessions are conducted. In college, testing is less frequent and may cover larger amounts of material. Makeup tests are seldom an option, and professors do not rearrange test dates. Review sessions may or may not be offered.

How are grades given in high school and college?

In high school, grades are given for most assigned work, and good homework grades can raise overall grades. Extra credit projects are often available. In college, grades may not be provided for all assigned work. Grades on tests and major papers usually determine the course grade. Extra credit may not be used to raise grades.

What are the differences in classes between high school and college?

In high school, classes have a structured schedule with smaller class sizes. In college, class time varies, breaks between classes are common, and class sizes can range from 20 to 100+ students. Professors may present material from various academic sources.

How do high school and college handle homework and assistance?

In high school, teachers check completed homework and remind students of incomplete work. Teachers approach students if assistance is needed. In college, professors may not always check completed homework but expect students to perform the same tasks on tests. Professors are usually open and helpful but expect students to initiate contact during office hours.

How does studying differ between high school and college?

In high school, studying may primarily happen during class or study halls. In college, students are assigned substantial amounts of reading and writing that may not be directly addressed in class. Studying outside of class is essential, with regular review of class notes and text material.

What are the differences in class materials, such as textbooks and readings, between high school and college?

In high school, textbooks are provided at no expense to students. In college, textbooks and class materials can be expensive. College students are assigned multiple chapters of textbooks per week, along with research papers and other readings. Reading assignments in college are often not directly addressed in class .

How does the social life differ between high school and college?

High school offers close-knit relationships, while college allows students to meet new friends through various channels. College offers a more active and diverse social calendar, with the opportunity to form multiple social groups. College also brings a more diverse student population.

What is the level of independence and responsibilities in high school and college?

High school students have their time and responsibilities guided by parents, teachers, and coaches. In college, students experience increased independence and are responsible for managing their own time and responsibilities.

How does the role of sports differ between high school and college?

College sports often play a significant role in the social life and school spirit of a college. While not all colleges have sports teams, those that do create a sense of community and provide opportunities for students to engage in athletics as players or fans.

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Essay on School life vs College life

Essay – school life vs college life.

School life vs College life Essay: School life is the most effective stage of a person’s life for growing and developing in every aspect. Being in the learning stage of life, we have to be under complete restrictions and control under definite rules. School students have to be obedient to their teachers and parents. But in college life, students get much freedom to live in their own pace. They become free from discipline and rules when they have to choose their own life destinations. So, it solely depends on the individual student’s life philosophy, wisdom, knowledge and experience for taking the right decision about career path. Both school life and college life have its own perfections and limitations to encourage students. In this essay, students will find different shortcomings of school life and college life to identify their life goals and find ways for achieving them.

school life vs college life essay

Life at school and college:

Students need to be present in school for fixed timings after entering the school premises. In case of college, students can attend classes as per their requirements where they do not need to be present for prolonged hours. At college, it becomes hectic sometimes to attend class in early morning while they get enough time to get ready and come college for other classes. Students get the ultimate freedom to come and return after college as per their preferences. Students have to prepare their daily lessons and have to take tasks what they left undone. In college, they can do lessons daily or may leave for doing it later. They just need to collect the points and listen lectures of professors attentively. After classes, students are left with their own knowledge and resources to solve their queries. If they need to clarify ideas then they can take help from friends or teachers only if they permit. In school, students get many chances to ask their doubts and clear ideas for enhancing knowledge over a particular topic. In all aspects, school life is much joyous than college life where children learn and share views together.

Differences:

Students get more chances to involve in extracurricular activities in schools. We can often find children running over staircase, playing in ground during tiffin break which can rarely be found in colleges. Students remain in cheerful mood and active to participate in all programs. But in college we find students of different attitude having interests in unproductive activities. Nowadays, every college has some gymnasium present for providing the right resources of physical fitness to students. Besides that students can take part in specific sports’ team in college for fulfilling their sporty spirit. There is significant different between school and college for the usage of library and common rooms. There is library present in every school but the occasion of issuing books for students is rare. On the other hand, students utilise the purpose of library in college by issuing multiple books occasionally as per their needs. In case of common room, boys do not get common room as they spend break time in grounds or any other extracurricular activities.

Impact on life:

It is quite natural that the prevalent differences between school life and college life can create several moral and personal qualities. In school life, students develop the sense of discipline and regularity. They become obedient with time to follow all instruction and guidelines of teachers in school. But in college, students are expected to acquire a sense of responsibility and personal initiative to fulfil their lessons or take a decision. Students get freedom in college to choose themselves over anything. But if they misuse the freedom and lose the chances of growing for their merriment then they have to suffer. So, in any case they should not forget about their responsibilities and fulfil their academic goals.

Conclusion:

Students will often tend to choose school life between school and college. At school, we all enjoy the limited freedom and carefree attitude after finishing lessons. But when we get unlimited freedom in college we cannot figure out how to utilise the time in right way. In fact, we lose much time in deciding the right path for accomplishing our goals. We get deviate by following our peers and other circumstances. In school, we all are carefree, fun loving, having the feeling of finding happiness in little things. With time our expectations get increased and then other responsibilities come in college life. So, school life is joyous, colourful and time of more merriment for all of us as compared to college life. But we should cherish all stages of life and adopt the learnings for our own growth.

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College Life Essay

One of the most memorable periods of one's life is considered to be their time in college. It's completely different from life at school. It involves a number of difficulties. Our lives are impacted by our college years—this is also the time of self-discovery and finding a career path for yourself. Here are a few sample essays from ‘College Life’.

100 Words Essay On College Life

200 words essay on college life, 500 words essay on college life.

College Life Essay

One of the most memorable periods of a person's life is often their time in college. Compared to school life, it is completely different. We are exposed to new experiences and ideas during our time in college. Our schools were a secure environment where we had spent the majority of our time growing up. The move to college is so abrupt that you are no longer shielded by your teachers and schoolmates. Some people believe that college life entails living it up to the fullest and having a fun time. Others devote more time to their studies and take their careers seriously if they want a better future. From school life, college life is a significant adjustment.

College life will present you with numerous hurdles. You must make friends in this new environment where there are many unexpected faces. It teaches us how to interact with others and establish our own opinions. Students acquire their free will in college, which helps them grow more self-assured and collected. We were always dependent on our friends or teachers while we were in school. We learn to be independent in college. It strengthens us and teaches us how to face our own challenges. It also encourages us to take our careers seriously. We make decisions that will impact our future on our own, unlike when we were in school when our parents made those decisions for us.

The college experience for me was full of ups and downs. Even though I got admission to the college of my choice, the transition came as a complete shock to me. It was my first time travelling alone every day and meeting new people. I had a difficult time making new friends and getting familiar with the new professors. The newly found independence was exhilarating though. I could go anywhere I wanted, join any social activities, and become part of different programmes. It felt like there was nothing I couldn’t do in life.

Everyone should enjoy their time in college because it is a great and important period in their lives. We learn a lot from college life, and it also gives us more self-assurance to tackle difficulties later in life. A person should focus on other hobbies and socialise as much as they can during their college years rather than just studying because all of these things aid in a person's overall development.

There are many hurdles that come with being a college student. You're currently in a really strange environment where it would be difficult for you to mix with anyone. Students discover their strengths in college and how to persevere becoming more self-assured and composed.

My College Days Experience

Speaking of my time in college, I had a great time there and experienced some of the best days of my life. I attended Jesus and Mary College, one of Delhi University's most prestigious colleges. From there, I earned my B.A. (Hons.) in Political Science. One of Delhi University's most well-known and esteemed colleges is Gargi College. It is a stunning college with various courses in fields like science, commerce, the arts, and humanities that was constructed in a greater space. It is a girls' college with a stellar academic record.

I was quite nervous when I applied to this college because I didn't know any of the other students. However, I gradually got into college life and met some great friends. I took part in college events and enjoyed everything about my college. I joined the dance and quiz society at my college and took part in a number of dance and quiz competitions held at various Delhi University campuses.

The fact that every day is different is one of the finest aspects about college life. Along with studying, my friends and I enjoyed a variety of other activities in college. We visited different locations, witnessed unique experiences, and gained a great deal of fresh knowledge. In my undergraduate years, the canteen and the common room were special spots since we would hang out there anytime we had free time. Our garden was one of the most beautiful places in our college where we spent countless hours during wintertime. Sometimes, our professors would even take our lectures there when the weather was good.

Annual Fests were another aspect of college life that I cherished. Every year, each college at Delhi University puts on a festival that lasts two to three days. Several competitions take place at this annual festival, which attracts participants from different colleges. Our college hosts a sizable yearly festival every year, in which all of the students take part in numerous competitions and have a great time.

These events give students the chance to interact with new people and demonstrate their talents in front of everyone, boosting their confidence and assisting them in the future. I have taken part in my college's yearly festival for the past three years, and during this time, I have gained the most exposure and experience of my life. I had the time of my life in college, and I will always cherish my recollections of that time.

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Home — Essay Samples — Education — College — High School Vs College: Compare and Contrast

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High School Vs College: Compare and Contrast

  • Categories: College High School

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Words: 785 |

Updated: 4 December, 2023

Words: 785 | Pages: 2 | 4 min read

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Hook Examples for “High School Vs College” Essay

  • A Student’s Journey: As students transition from the familiar hallways of high school to the uncharted territory of college campuses, they embark on a transformative journey. Explore the differences that define this educational evolution.
  • Two Worlds Collide: Imagine straddling the line between two worlds – the structured environment of high school and the newfound independence of college life. This essay unveils the unique challenges and opportunities that lie at this intersection.
  • The Freshman Experience: Meet Sarah, a recent high school graduate taking her first steps into college life. Her story encapsulates the excitement and apprehension that every freshman faces when making the transition.
  • Voices of Wisdom: From the perspective of educators, this essay shares insights from seasoned teachers and professors who have witnessed the evolution of their students. Discover what they have to say about the changes in students’ academic lives.
  • A Tale of Two Curricula: What happens to the syllabus when you move from high school to college? Explore the differences in academic rigor, teaching methods, and expectations that define these two distinct stages of education.

Works Cited

  • Chen, H., & Kuh, G. D. (2016). Student engagement and student learning: Testing the linkages. Research in Higher Education, 57(2), 153-181.
  • Eccles, J. S., & Templeton, J. (2002). Extracurricular and other after-school activities for youth. Review of Research in Education, 26(1), 113-180.
  • Pascarella, E. T., & Terenzini, P. T. (2005). How college affects students: A third decade of research (Vol. 2). Jossey-Bass.
  • Raby, R. L., & Valeau, E. J. (2018). College as a turning point: Revisiting the myth. The Journal of Higher Education, 89(5), 661-687.
  • Tinto, V. (1993). Leaving college: Rethinking the causes and cures of student attrition (2nd ed.). University of Chicago Press.
  • Perna, L. W. (2006). Studying college access and choice: A proposed conceptual model. In J. C. Smart (Ed.), Higher education: Handbook of theory and research (Vol. 21, pp. 99-157). Springer.
  • National Survey of Student Engagement. (n.d.). NSSE Annual Results. Retrieved from https://nsse.indiana.edu/annual-results/index.cfm
  • Roksa, J., & Arum, R. (2011). Academically adrift: Limited learning on college campuses. University of Chicago Press.
  • Umbach, P. D. (2007). How effective are they? Exploring the impact of contingent faculty on undergraduate education. The Review of Higher Education, 30(2), 91-123.
  • Inkelas, K. K., Daver, Z. E., Vogt, K. E., & Leonard, J. B. (2007). Living–learning programs and first-generation college students’ academic and social transition to college. Research in Higher Education, 48(4), 403-434.

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school vs college life essay

College Life Essay for Students and Children

500 words essay on college life.

College life is known as one of the most memorable years of one’s life. It is entirely different from school life. College life exposes us to new experiences and things that we were not familiar with earlier. For some people, college life means enjoying life to the fullest and partying hard. While for others, it is time to get serious about their career and study thoroughly for a brighter future.

College Life Essay

Nonetheless, college life remains a memorable time for all of us. Not everyone is lucky enough to experience college life. People do not get the chance to go to college due to various reasons. Sometimes they do not have a strong financial background to do so while other times they have other responsibilities to fulfill. The ones who have had a college life always wish to turn back time to live it all once again.

The Transition from School Life to College Life

College life is a big transition from school life. We go through a lot of changes when we enter college. Our schools were a safe place where we had grown up and spent half our lives. The transition to college is so sudden that you’re no longer protected by your teachers and friends of your school time.

College life poses a lot of challenges in front of you. You are now in a place full of unfamiliar faces where you need to mingle in. It teaches us to socialize and form opinions of our own. In college, students learn their free will and they go on to become more confident and composed.

In school life, we were always dependant on our friends or teachers. College life teaches us to be independent. It makes us stronger and teaches us to fight our own battles. It also makes us serious about our careers. We make decisions that will affect our future all by ourselves, as in school life our parents did it for us.

Additionally, in schools, we viewed our teachers as our mentors and sometimes even parents. We respected them and kept a distance. However, in college life, the teacher-student relationship becomes a bit informal. They become more or less like our friends and we share our troubles and happiness with them as we did with our friends.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

College Life Experience

College life experience is truly one of a kind. The most common memories people have of college life are definitely goofing around with friends. They remember how the group of friends walked around the college in style and playing silly pranks on each other.

Moreover, people always look back at the times spent in the college canteen. It was considered the hub of every student where they enjoyed eating and chatting away with their friends.

Another college life experience I have seen people cherish the most is the annual fest. The annual fest created so much excitement and buzz amongst the students. Everyone welcomed other colleges with open arms and also made friends there. All the competitions were carried out in a good spirit and the students dressed their best to represent their college well.

FAQs on College Life

Q.1 How is college life different from school life?

A.1 College life is completely different from school life. It gives us more exposure and also makes us more confident. Our teachers act more like friends in college, whereas in school they’re like our mentors. Most importantly, college life gives us various challenges than our school life.

Q.2 What are some memories of college life?

A.2 Those who have experienced college life have some common memories. People always remember their free time which they spent with friends goofing around. Everyone remembers the annual fest of the college which brought so much excitement and buzz in student’s lives. Furthermore, they remember the college canteen which always fed their empty stomachs.

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High School and College Life Essay

High School and College are two different and polar opposite periods of an individual’s life. This is true for most of the student population in the world. The one similarity that both the periods share is that these are the times when the individual is on the verge of self-discovery and patenting a path for his and her future.

High school is usually awkward for most people as the first year of high school is usually filled with anxiety and kind of defines the role of the individual for the remaining years in the high school. The college first-year, however, is very jovial and fun, with immense choices and a variant future looming ahead of the individual. The orientation that takes place in the first year of college helps build long-term bonds among classmates.

Another difference between high school and college is that the teachers in college are more experienced than the ones in high school. They usually have prominent and high-ranking designations. The notes are usually not provided; instead, research is to be conducted by the students. Aside from this, in high school, the teachers are there to aid and help students, while in college, the professors are present to enable the students to help themselves.

Social life is also a factor of difference between high school and college. In high school, the parents usually maintain and control the education of the student, while in college, the individual has to balance his social and academic life. This makes them more prone to making mistakes that don’t get realized until later.

In high school, the individual usually makes a choice based on the advice of the parents and the teachers. Usually, parents play a strong role in the choices that are made for the individual. In college, however, the choices to be made are entirely the responsibility of the student. However, counselors are present who can guide the student through the option available.

High school students usually live with their parents with siblings as roommates. Many have the whole room to themselves. In colleges, the student usually shares the room with a complete stranger. This is actually beneficial to the students. The roommates can help each other through the loneliness of the first few days and also help in adapting to the new college life.

Most high school students originate from the same city or state. Their interests and culture do not vary much from one another. It is easy to approach another student for assistance or social matters. Many even believe that life does not differ from their own. Colleges house students from across the world. Their varying cultures clash; this makes them harder to understand one another. This is advantageous as it provides a necessary lesson in dealing with foreign co-workers, clients or superiors in further life.

High school students usually eat food prepared for them by their parents or guardians. They do not face the necessary decisions about health and diet. However, once students enter college, they must feed themselves. They must familiarize themselves with cooking utensils, groceries, and recipes. The only other alternative for them would be to either eat the greasy and fattening food the college cafeteria has to offer or the lavish and often expensive food served in restaurants located around the campus.

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IvyPanda. (2023, October 31). High School and College Life. https://ivypanda.com/essays/high-school-and-college-life/

"High School and College Life." IvyPanda , 31 Oct. 2023, ivypanda.com/essays/high-school-and-college-life/.

IvyPanda . (2023) 'High School and College Life'. 31 October.

IvyPanda . 2023. "High School and College Life." October 31, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/high-school-and-college-life/.

1. IvyPanda . "High School and College Life." October 31, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/high-school-and-college-life/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "High School and College Life." October 31, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/high-school-and-college-life/.

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Student Life

20 Differences Between High School & College Life

Nervous about the transition from high school to college fear not: college life is amazing..

Kathryn Knight Randolph

October 13, 2022

20 Differences Between High School & College Life

20 Differences between High School & College Life:

  • High School: In high school, you know everyone in your class. College: In college, you’re lucky to know one person in your class.
  • High School High school books are provided are little to no cost. College: College textbooks cost a small fortune.
  • High School: You have to live with your parents in high school. College: You get to live with your friends in college.
  • High School: You wake up early in the morning for class in high school. College: You wake up for your first class (or whenever you want).
  • High School: In high school, you were forced to learn all subjects. College: In college, you get to learn whatever you want to.
  • High School: In high school, your time and schedule are dictated by others. College: In college, you take back ownership of time management .
  • High School: In high school, teachers read from the textbooks they use. College: In college, professors refer to the textbooks they wrote.
  • High School: In high school, you studied comfortably at home before a test. College: In college, the library becomes your home away from home.
  • High School: In high school, you wrote notes to friends. College: In college, you take notes for yourself.
  • High School: In high school, you're able finish all your homework in one night. College: In college, that’s a near-to-impossible feat.
  • High School: In high school, you have a full day of classes. College: In college, you plan your schedule to your liking.
  • High School: In high school, you’re stuck with a set social hierarchy. College: In college, you get to choose who you spend time around.
  • High School: In high school, assigned reading means a night off from homework. College: In college, you actually need to do the reading - and it takes all night.
  • High School: In high school, everyone is required to be there. College: In college, everyone wants to be there.
  • High School In high school, you worried about what “looked” cool. College: In college, you’re too busy to care about what other people think.
  • High School: In high school, you’re stuck in a social “role” that others cast you in. College: In college, you can be whoever you want to be.
  • High School: In high school, you have adults telling you what’s expected of you. College: In college, it’s just expected.
  • High School: In high school, teachers gear classes towards average learners. College: Average is the bare ( emphasis on bare ) minimum in college classes .
  • High School: High school attendance is mandatory. College: College attendance is (strongly) suggested.

Adjusting to College Life

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school vs college life essay

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Difference between school life and college life

High school and college life are two very different and contrasting phases of one's life. let's have a look some of most prominent difference between the two..

Jagranjosh

Difference between school and college

Learning environment .

This is one of the major difference between two student lives that we live. In school, attendance was compulsory if you missed out a day you had to take in a leave/sick application duly signed by one of your parents to school the next day. Whereas, on the other hand, attendance in college is taken more casually by students. And to avoid a complete no-show the entire semester a lot of college administrations have introduced a minimum attendance percentage for students to be able to sit in examinations. Mass bunk and proxy were like unheard concepts back in school but in college, they seem to be the only thing on a student's mind. 

Things every hosteller should know

Cultural Transitions

Back in high most of your friends were from the local community. There were only a handful of students who lived in another city and commuted some distance to come to school. The people all around you were from the same culture and traditions as you. There were hardly any cultural differences between you. But in college, the scenario is completely different. You come across people not only from different cultures within your own country but a lot of international students too. College teaches you to learn and be accepting of people from wide and varied backgrounds.

7 school habits you need to quit before entering college

Roommates and Friends

Back in high school no matter how rebellious you were as a teen every time you landed in trouble your parents were the first people you rushed up to. High school friendships are great and you surely keep a lot of secrets with friends but you still rely and bank on your parents for many things. Also, there was a defined privacy space that your high school friends were not supposed to infringe upon. But in college, there is hardly any such things as privacy. For when you are living in dorms and hostel rooms you are mostly living on twin sharing basis. Moreover, friends are the only people in the immediate vicinity in college whenever you want some company to celebrate with or when you need a shoulder to cry upon.

Keeping in touch with school friends while in college

In Summation

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  • College Life Essay

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Anticipated Experiences During Our College Life

College Life is one of the most remarkable and lovable times of an individual's life. Unlike School Life, College Life has a different experience, and a person needs to have this experience in his/her life. College Life exposes us to whole new experiences which we always dream of experiencing after our school life. Lucky are those who get the chance to enjoy their college life, as many people don't get this chance due to their circumstances or financial issues. For every person, College Life has a different meaning. While some people spend their college life partying with friends, others become more cautious about their careers and study hard. Whatever the way, every individual enjoys their college life and always wishes to relive that time once it is over.

College Life Experience: How is it different from School Life?

Both school life and college life is the most memorable time of a person's life, but both of them are quite different from each other. While in School life, we learn everything in a protected environment, College Life exposes us to a new environment where we have to learn new things and face new challenges by ourselves. We spend half of our young lives in school, and thus we get comfortable living in that environment. But College Life is for three years only, where every year introduces new challenges and lessons to us. While in school, our teachers and friends always protect and guard us, in college life we form a relationship with our mentors, and they don't protect us all the time as our school teachers did. 

Unlike school life, we don't have many limitations in college life, and it is up to us how we want to spend our college life. In college life, we see new faces and experience a unique environment in which we have to mingle ourselves. We make new friends there who stay with us for the rest of our lives. Also, we get a chance to shape our careers asking the right decisions and studying hard. College life is not only about the study but also about the overall development of an individual through various activities and challenges.

In College Life, one gets a chance to make their own decisions. In school life, students get an opportunity to be class monitors. In College Life, an individual gets a chance to nominate himself/herself for more prominent positions like College President, Vice President, Secretary, and Vice Secretary. Apart from deciding the course and stream, an individual gets a chance to build his/her confidence by being a part of various societies and events that take place all year.

Different from School Life, College Life has its importance in a person's life, and one should always enjoy his/her college life.

A Bridge Between Our Student and Adult Lives

College life is considered a bridge in our lives between our school days and our career. It prepares us with the finest academics and platform to generate dreams into realities. It acts as a transition to prepare us to be more independent. In school, we were dependent on our parents. However, we became independent in college regarding studying, traveling, decision-making, and financially independent after college. It is a valued and very smooth transition where we do not realize that we have become independent. 

Some Fun Memories from College Life

Firstly, some of the most fun memories of college are “college canteen”. The canteen is supposed to be where most of the students satisfy their hunger and hang out with their friends. 

Secondly, it’s the “annual fest” of the colleges. Fests always filled the student’s life with excitement and buzz. It gave new opportunities to explore, compare, compete and provide a platform to showcase their talent. It became a place where students take lots of pictures and record their experiences. 

Last but not the least, it’s the college trips. One of the best things in college life is field trips where they can go out and have quality time with their friends and teacher and learning experience. Field trips or just any other college trips are filled with stories and dramas. Every student has their own story to tell about their college trips. 

We should enjoy our college days as they cannot be brought back just like our school days. 

The Hardest Part of College Life

As a college student, the hardest part of college life was leaving college after graduation or post-graduation. The last days of college were the hardest, knowing that soon you will be departing your friends, the campus, teachers and completely leaving behind a part of life.  

My College Days Experience

Talking about my college life, I had enjoyed my college life to the fullest and had some of the best college days of my life. I was a student of one of the most reputed colleges of Delhi University and, i.e. Gargi College. I have completed my B.A. (Hons.) in Applied Psychology from there. Gargi College is one of the renowned and best colleges of Delhi University. Built in a larger area, it is a beautiful college with many courses in streams like Science, Commerce, Arts, and Humanities. With an outstanding academic record, it is a girls college.

When I took admission to this college, I was really afraid as all the people were new to me. But soon, I started enjoying my college life and made some fantastic friends. I loved everything about my college and participated in the events at my college. Even I joined the dance society of my college and participated in many dance competitions that occurred in different colleges of Delhi University. 

One of the best things about college life is that you get a new experience every day. In my college life, along with studying, I and my friends enjoyed a lot of other things. We traveled to lots of places, had new experiences, and learned many new things. Our college's canteen was a remarkable place in my college life as whenever we got time, we used to chill in the canteen. 

Another thing I loved about my college life is Annual Fests. Every year, every college of Delhi University organizes an annual fest that lasts for 2-3 days. In this annual fest, various competitions happen, and students from various colleges come to be a part of this annual fest. Every year, our college organizes a massive annual fest and all the students of our college participate in various events and enjoy a lot in this fest. These fests allow students to socialize with new people and showcase their talent to everyone which builds their confidence and helps them in their future. I have participated in my college's annual fest for all three years, and I have got the best exposure and experience of my life through this fest. I had the best time of my life in college, and my college life memories will always make me happy.

Life After College

One fine day, you will be silently smiling with wet eyes, looking at the pictures from your college and old friends, and remembering all the good times you had in your college days. That is the beauty of studying in a college. Despite climbing the ladders of success, you will cherish the memories of your college life.

College Life is a remarkable and essential time in a person's life, and everyone should enjoy it. College Life teaches us many things and builds our confidence to face the challenges and struggles in our future. Instead of just focussing on the study, a person must participate in other activities and socialize as much as possible in his/her college life as all these things help in the overall development of a person.

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FAQs on College Life Essay

Q1. What is the difference between college life and school life?

When compared to each other, they both are completely different from each other. College life provides us with different opportunities to explore to nurture our confidence in the outside world. In school, the teacher acts as a monitor whereas, in college, they act like our friends, and not to forget, in college, we face more challenges than we had in our school.

Q2. Explain some of the common memories of college life.

Whenever you hear the word college, the first thing that comes to our mind is “college canteen”. The most beloved place for every student was to feed their empty stomach, spend time with friends, and create thousands of memories. Another most common memory is of the annual fest that bought buzz in every student’s life.

Q3. Why are colleges necessary?

When we go to school, they ensure that we have common educational knowledge. Whereas in college, we get specialization in a particular field we want to pursue as our career. That’s the reason our school friends get scattered in various colleges to make their dreams a reality and open better career options.

Q4. Which two things need to be focused on the most in college?

The two most important things in college are the Grade Point Average (GPA) and your participation in other co-curricular activities.

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School Life And College Life Essay

An Essay on School Life and College Life There is a great deal of difference between school life and college life. School life is a life of restrictions and control, a life in which the student has to be accountable for his daily work to his teachers and his guardian. But a college student, of the other hand, enjoys much greater freedom from control and supervision; he is, to a very large extent, the master of his own destiny. It lies with him to make it or mar it. At school the students has to be in attendance for fixed hours every day. He has to leave home at ten or eleven and return at four at college , however, the hours of attendance very. Sometimes, a college student has hardly time in the morning to gulp his food; at others, he has enough time to lounge about for a few minutes after a leisurely meal. On some days he returns early from college; or others, it is late evening by the time he gets back home. He has ample time at his disposal to use, abuse, or misuse. At school the student has to prepare his daily lessons and may be taken to task for what he has left undone. But at college he can do his lessons daily, or not …show more content…

At school, students acquire habits of discipline and regularity. They have to practice obedience and follow instruction. But at college students are expected to develop a sense of responsibility and personal initiative. In other words, what a school student has to do under com-pulsing is done by the college students out of his greater sense of responsibility. Of course it has to be admitted that college life offers greater scope to a student to go astray. It he takes himself light-heartedly, he will have to suffer. It he allows arrears of studies to accumulate he will pay the price with failure and disgrace. Hence a studious pupil improves more rapidly at college than at school; but a waster comes quicker to

Narrative Essay About Going To College

I’m raised in an environment filled with negative stereotypes, high dropout rates, fewer resources, and low expectations. As a Mexican American from the San Fernando Valley, educational opportunities do not come often. In middle school it massed into my head that going to college is my way towards success. Soon it became the only option for me and as a result, I joined Project Grad to begin my journey towards college. They introduced me to the Chicano Youth Leadership Conference during my junior year. After applying and attending, the conference eliminated the label that Latinos are not college material. Subsequently, I grabbed as many opportunities as I could. In my junior my school did not put me in any AP classes. Therefore, I went to go

Charles Murray's Essay Are Too Many People Going To College

Throughout the essay, Charles Murray stresses the idea that college is the wonderland of finding oneself and to find the career that one would want to follow for the rest of their lives. “College is seen as the open sesame to a good job and a desirable way for adolescents to transition to adulthood. Neither reason is as persuasive as it first appears.” Murray, C (2008) Practically spoken, this is not normally the case. College is a fair amount of work, much more work than one would normally acquire through any course of a high school or secondary school setting. In no way saying that the average student cannot meet the requirement and achieve success over the amounted work, it would also be ridiculous to expect every graduate to pursue going into higher education with the expansion of work that will be given.

Vocation Or Exploration Tumgend Analysis

College. One word that has people’s minds run like crazy. Panic is one emotion that starts to settle in for high school seniors when second semester rolls by when they realize they are suppose to figure out their future soon. Not only is it a stressful time for the seniors, but also for the parents. Alina Tugend, an experienced journalist, wrote an essay called, “Vocation or Exploration? Pondering the Purpose of College.” Tugend’s goal of this article is to inform the audience of college students and their parents that college is continuously changing its aspect which leads us to different options when approaching college. This is why making the right choices after graduating high school is challenging. She pinpoints great examples throughout the essay and uses a good amount of ethos, logos, but did not have a

Louis Menand's Three Theories

College gives students endless opportunities. During this time, students are able to grow and develop academically and individually. It also provides students with

Kid I 'M Sorry But You' Re Just Not College Material Summary

In addition, schools are like assemblies that are require to follow procedures. Assemblies follow ideas or rules to have organize the people, for this reason schools due the same thing. However, those who don’t follow the procedures would show a low progress in class. For example, in the article “Kid, I’m sorry, but You’re Just Not College Material” by Michael J. Petrilli shows how students perform low in their academics’ level, and instead they decide to work because its less challengeable. As a result, not every college student is capable of attending and graduation from college because of their education level. However, everything leads back to when the college students were children. Their academic preface in college show a negative path

High School Vs College Essays

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College is a chance to be free and is a bridge between the real world and school. I’m an adult and expected to behave as such; I make my own choices where I have to decide what is important to me. I have an opportunity to learn how the world works, to explore the limitless possibilities and a chance to admire how vast knowledge can be. College will change my life in the way that I can develop life skills outside academics, to be fully

Essay On Sophomore Year

I just can’t believe there is only few more days of high school left. As the days are getting closer and closer, it's getting sad. I still remember the day I stepped into Maine East High School as a Freshman, at that time, all I wished for was to graduate from this school with good grades. High school was not the way I imagined, it is way different from what I thought and definitely different from Middle School. Freshman year was the “exploring/adventure” year, finding where each classes were, what activities/clubs were offered at this school and many more. Freshman year went quickly and then Sophomore year came up. Sophomore year was probably the least stressful year in high school but from Sophomore year my family and friends started asking me the scariest question “What are you doing after high school, which career?

High School vs. College Essay examples

A very important part of life is education. In order to acquire a satisfying education, one should complete high school prior to college. College and high school have two different levels of education, but both are trying to further student’s knowledge. As recent high school graduates and college freshman’s many can clarify similarities and differences between the two. Some obvious similarities are that both have assignments, classrooms, and students. Although college and high school have many differences three of the main ones are the teachers, classes, and responsibilities.

The Social Aspects of College Are Just as Important as the Academic Ones

Desiring to have a better life in future inclines people to focus on their academic career. Schools, exams, busy schedules and a pile of work are quintessential this goal. Therefore, students who want to achieve a better future prefer undergoing hard work instead of engaging in social activities. However, social sides of college do not only occupy a big role, but also has plenty of benefits. Social life in college becoming increasingly essential in today’s world triggered an acceptable consideration: Social parts of college should be considered as equal as the academic parts because of psychological, social reasons and its benefits in terms of future.

High School Vs. College

Graduating from high school is what every student is looking forward to. However, going to college is a big accomplishment for all students. The first day of freshman high school and college feels the same, the excitement and pressured. As many students experienced, both high school and college could be compared their similarities. First, both students in college and high school are expected to behave in well mannered, attend to every class on time, and respect the teachers or professors. Second, being prepared in class is needed for the success whether the students are in high school or college. Third, high school and college allow the students to figure out and pursue their career. In contrary, high school and college have a lot of differences to each other. Unlike high school, students in college can choose a college they would prefer, they can manage their own time, and students be able to learn how to balance their responsibilities and priorities.

A College Education: Overrated or Invaluable? Essay

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In addition to the social aspects, college teaches how to develop independent thinking. It also “exposes future citizens to material that enlightens and empowers them, whatever careers they end up choosing” (Menand, 3). However, most students today perceive college fundamentally as a party scene and various forms of entertainment instead of focusing on school work. They have forgotten about the academic freedom provided by receiving a proper college education.

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I’ve just entered my senior year of high school. I know that this is a very important year. I have a lot of decisions to make and not much time to make them. These decisions will either make or break my life, and I want to make sure that I make them to the best of my ability because there is no turning back. I need to make sure I definitely want to attend college. The decision is totally up to me. There are many positives and negatives of attending college. Go over them, and then decide. I know myself better then anyone else, and I won’t let anyone else tell me what to do. I will make sure if I am going to attend college that I have something in mind that I will want to do, to succeed in. Choosing a major can be a

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People who are nostalgic about childhood, were obviously never children. Few people can remember the truth about adolescence. Their minds "censor" their memories; and have them believe that being a teenager was was one big party, free of cares and responsibilities. Well let me say this, you couldnOt be more wrong if you had a lobotomy. There aren't that many adults around who realise what adolescence was really like. The anguish, the fear, the anxiety, the stress. People don't remember those problems because they want to forget them.

Essay about Compare and Contrast High School versus College

High school tests usually occur more often, cover less material, and countless toward your overall course grade than college exams do. In college, you will probably only have two or three exams per course, and they usually cover several chapters and are worth a larger percentage of your final grade. Most of the time, your professors will not review exam material with you before the test; it will be your responsibility to study your notes and

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Which is Better: School Life or College Life?

school vs college life essay

The transition from school to college life is an exciting and nerve-wracking experience for many students. For some, it is a journey that will take them to the next level in their education and a whole new world of experiences. For others, it is a leap of faith into unfamiliar territory. Whatever you might feel, the move from school life to college life is definitely one of the biggest changes in a student’s life. In this essay, we will take a closer look at the differences between school life and college life, and find out which one is truly better for students. 

School Life vs College Life: An Overview

At first glance, the differences between school life and college life may appear to be minor. After all, the two systems of education are built on the same basic foundation. However, there are some key differences between the two that should be taken into consideration. Education during school life typically focuses more on necessary information and skills, ranging from basic math and science to grammar and literature, as well as physics and history. College life, on the other hand, emphasizes more on critical thinking skills, such as problem solving and independent research. Students are also expected to be more autonomous and independent, taking responsibility for their own learning.

1. Social Life

One of the major differences between school life and college life is the social life. During school life, students have the chance to form close relationships with their peers, teachers, and counselors. The atmosphere is often more intimate and open. College life, on the other hand, is a much different experience. Students often benefit from the freedom that college provides and are able to develop a much wider social circle. This can be both a benefit and a drawback, depending on the student’s personality and attitude.

2. Academic Life

The academic life of school and college are also vastly different. School life consists of daily classes with the same curriculum followed by exams at the end of the year. College life, however, is much more dynamic and open. Students are expected to take more initiative in their studies and take responsibility for their own learning. This may mean deciding which classes to take, exploring new topics and interests, and taking on independent projects.

3. Financial Life

The financial aspects of school and college life also differ greatly. During school life, students are usually expected to pay for their school fees, supplies and materials, uniform, and other costs out of pocket. College life, on the other hand, can often leave students with a hefty student loan to pay back. It is important for students to plan ahead and manage their finances wisely to prevent financial issues down the line.

4. Personal Life

The personal life of a student is another area of difference between school and college life. School life generally consists of a structured weekly routine that is laid down by teachers, whereas college life gives students more freedom and allows them to plan their own schedule. This provides a unique opportunity to become independent and responsible for oneself, an important life lesson.

Overall, school life is an important foundation to build on, and college life is the opportunity to grow and develop further. Each system of education offers its own unique benefits and drawbacks. Ultimately, the decision of which one is better for students to pursue lies in the hands of the individual. The best choice is whatever helps them reach their goals and dreams.

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School Life Vs College Life Essay

school vs college life essay

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College Admissions , College Essays

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The personal statement might just be the hardest part of your college application. Mostly this is because it has the least guidance and is the most open-ended. One way to understand what colleges are looking for when they ask you to write an essay is to check out the essays of students who already got in—college essays that actually worked. After all, they must be among the most successful of this weird literary genre.

In this article, I'll go through general guidelines for what makes great college essays great. I've also compiled an enormous list of 100+ actual sample college essays from 11 different schools. Finally, I'll break down two of these published college essay examples and explain why and how they work. With links to 177 full essays and essay excerpts , this article is a great resource for learning how to craft your own personal college admissions essay!

What Excellent College Essays Have in Common

Even though in many ways these sample college essays are very different from one other, they do share some traits you should try to emulate as you write your own essay.

Visible Signs of Planning

Building out from a narrow, concrete focus. You'll see a similar structure in many of the essays. The author starts with a very detailed story of an event or description of a person or place. After this sense-heavy imagery, the essay expands out to make a broader point about the author, and connects this very memorable experience to the author's present situation, state of mind, newfound understanding, or maturity level.

Knowing how to tell a story. Some of the experiences in these essays are one-of-a-kind. But most deal with the stuff of everyday life. What sets them apart is the way the author approaches the topic: analyzing it for drama and humor, for its moving qualities, for what it says about the author's world, and for how it connects to the author's emotional life.

Stellar Execution

A killer first sentence. You've heard it before, and you'll hear it again: you have to suck the reader in, and the best place to do that is the first sentence. Great first sentences are punchy. They are like cliffhangers, setting up an exciting scene or an unusual situation with an unclear conclusion, in order to make the reader want to know more. Don't take my word for it—check out these 22 first sentences from Stanford applicants and tell me you don't want to read the rest of those essays to find out what happens!

A lively, individual voice. Writing is for readers. In this case, your reader is an admissions officer who has read thousands of essays before yours and will read thousands after. Your goal? Don't bore your reader. Use interesting descriptions, stay away from clichés, include your own offbeat observations—anything that makes this essay sounds like you and not like anyone else.

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Technical correctness. No spelling mistakes, no grammar weirdness, no syntax issues, no punctuation snafus—each of these sample college essays has been formatted and proofread perfectly. If this kind of exactness is not your strong suit, you're in luck! All colleges advise applicants to have their essays looked over several times by parents, teachers, mentors, and anyone else who can spot a comma splice. Your essay must be your own work, but there is absolutely nothing wrong with getting help polishing it.

And if you need more guidance, connect with PrepScholar's expert admissions consultants . These expert writers know exactly what college admissions committees look for in an admissions essay and chan help you craft an essay that boosts your chances of getting into your dream school.

Check out PrepScholar's Essay Editing and Coaching progra m for more details!

Want to write the perfect college application essay?   We can help.   Your dedicated PrepScholar Admissions counselor will help you craft your perfect college essay, from the ground up. We learn your background and interests, brainstorm essay topics, and walk you through the essay drafting process, step-by-step. At the end, you'll have a unique essay to proudly submit to colleges.   Don't leave your college application to chance. Find out more about PrepScholar Admissions now:

Links to Full College Essay Examples

Some colleges publish a selection of their favorite accepted college essays that worked, and I've put together a selection of over 100 of these.

Common App Essay Samples

Please note that some of these college essay examples may be responding to prompts that are no longer in use. The current Common App prompts are as follows:

1. Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story. 2. The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience? 3. Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome? 4. Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you? 5. Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others. 6. Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

7. Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

Now, let's get to the good stuff: the list of 177 college essay examples responding to current and past Common App essay prompts. 

Connecticut college.

  • 12 Common Application essays from the classes of 2022-2025

Hamilton College

  • 7 Common Application essays from the class of 2026
  • 7 Common Application essays from the class of 2022
  • 7 Common Application essays from the class of 2018
  • 8 Common Application essays from the class of 2012
  • 8 Common Application essays from the class of 2007

Johns Hopkins

These essays are answers to past prompts from either the Common Application or the Coalition Application (which Johns Hopkins used to accept).

  • 1 Common Application or Coalition Application essay from the class of 2026
  • 6 Common Application or Coalition Application essays from the class of 2025
  • 6 Common Application or Universal Application essays from the class of 2024
  • 6 Common Application or Universal Application essays from the class of 2023
  • 7 Common Application of Universal Application essays from the class of 2022
  • 5 Common Application or Universal Application essays from the class of 2021
  • 7 Common Application or Universal Application essays from the class of 2020

Essay Examples Published by Other Websites

  • 2 Common Application essays ( 1st essay , 2nd essay ) from applicants admitted to Columbia

Other Sample College Essays

Here is a collection of essays that are college-specific.

Babson College

  • 4 essays (and 1 video response) on "Why Babson" from the class of 2020

Emory University

  • 5 essay examples ( 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 ) from the class of 2020 along with analysis from Emory admissions staff on why the essays were exceptional
  • 5 more recent essay examples ( 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 ) along with analysis from Emory admissions staff on what made these essays stand out

University of Georgia

  • 1 “strong essay” sample from 2019
  • 1 “strong essay” sample from 2018
  • 10 Harvard essays from 2023
  • 10 Harvard essays from 2022
  • 10 Harvard essays from 2021
  • 10 Harvard essays from 2020
  • 10 Harvard essays from 2019
  • 10 Harvard essays from 2018
  • 6 essays from admitted MIT students

Smith College

  • 6 "best gift" essays from the class of 2018

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Books of College Essays

If you're looking for even more sample college essays, consider purchasing a college essay book. The best of these include dozens of essays that worked and feedback from real admissions officers.

College Essays That Made a Difference —This detailed guide from Princeton Review includes not only successful essays, but also interviews with admissions officers and full student profiles.

50 Successful Harvard Application Essays by the Staff of the Harvard Crimson—A must for anyone aspiring to Harvard .

50 Successful Ivy League Application Essays and 50 Successful Stanford Application Essays by Gen and Kelly Tanabe—For essays from other top schools, check out this venerated series, which is regularly updated with new essays.

Heavenly Essays by Janine W. Robinson—This collection from the popular blogger behind Essay Hell includes a wider range of schools, as well as helpful tips on honing your own essay.

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Analyzing Great Common App Essays That Worked

I've picked two essays from the examples collected above to examine in more depth so that you can see exactly what makes a successful college essay work. Full credit for these essays goes to the original authors and the schools that published them.

Example 1: "Breaking Into Cars," by Stephen, Johns Hopkins Class of '19 (Common App Essay, 636 words long)

I had never broken into a car before.

We were in Laredo, having just finished our first day at a Habitat for Humanity work site. The Hotchkiss volunteers had already left, off to enjoy some Texas BBQ, leaving me behind with the college kids to clean up. Not until we were stranded did we realize we were locked out of the van.

Someone picked a coat hanger out of the dumpster, handed it to me, and took a few steps back.

"Can you do that thing with a coat hanger to unlock it?"

"Why me?" I thought.

More out of amusement than optimism, I gave it a try. I slid the hanger into the window's seal like I'd seen on crime shows, and spent a few minutes jiggling the apparatus around the inside of the frame. Suddenly, two things simultaneously clicked. One was the lock on the door. (I actually succeeded in springing it.) The other was the realization that I'd been in this type of situation before. In fact, I'd been born into this type of situation.

My upbringing has numbed me to unpredictability and chaos. With a family of seven, my home was loud, messy, and spottily supervised. My siblings arguing, the dog barking, the phone ringing—all meant my house was functioning normally. My Dad, a retired Navy pilot, was away half the time. When he was home, he had a parenting style something like a drill sergeant. At the age of nine, I learned how to clear burning oil from the surface of water. My Dad considered this a critical life skill—you know, in case my aircraft carrier should ever get torpedoed. "The water's on fire! Clear a hole!" he shouted, tossing me in the lake without warning. While I'm still unconvinced about that particular lesson's practicality, my Dad's overarching message is unequivocally true: much of life is unexpected, and you have to deal with the twists and turns.

Living in my family, days rarely unfolded as planned. A bit overlooked, a little pushed around, I learned to roll with reality, negotiate a quick deal, and give the improbable a try. I don't sweat the small stuff, and I definitely don't expect perfect fairness. So what if our dining room table only has six chairs for seven people? Someone learns the importance of punctuality every night.

But more than punctuality and a special affinity for musical chairs, my family life has taught me to thrive in situations over which I have no power. Growing up, I never controlled my older siblings, but I learned how to thwart their attempts to control me. I forged alliances, and realigned them as necessary. Sometimes, I was the poor, defenseless little brother; sometimes I was the omniscient elder. Different things to different people, as the situation demanded. I learned to adapt.

Back then, these techniques were merely reactions undertaken to ensure my survival. But one day this fall, Dr. Hicks, our Head of School, asked me a question that he hoped all seniors would reflect on throughout the year: "How can I participate in a thing I do not govern, in the company of people I did not choose?"

The question caught me off guard, much like the question posed to me in Laredo. Then, I realized I knew the answer. I knew why the coat hanger had been handed to me.

Growing up as the middle child in my family, I was a vital participant in a thing I did not govern, in the company of people I did not choose. It's family. It's society. And often, it's chaos. You participate by letting go of the small stuff, not expecting order and perfection, and facing the unexpected with confidence, optimism, and preparedness. My family experience taught me to face a serendipitous world with confidence.

What Makes This Essay Tick?

It's very helpful to take writing apart in order to see just how it accomplishes its objectives. Stephen's essay is very effective. Let's find out why!

An Opening Line That Draws You In

In just eight words, we get: scene-setting (he is standing next to a car about to break in), the idea of crossing a boundary (he is maybe about to do an illegal thing for the first time), and a cliffhanger (we are thinking: is he going to get caught? Is he headed for a life of crime? Is he about to be scared straight?).

Great, Detailed Opening Story

More out of amusement than optimism, I gave it a try. I slid the hanger into the window's seal like I'd seen on crime shows, and spent a few minutes jiggling the apparatus around the inside of the frame.

It's the details that really make this small experience come alive. Notice how whenever he can, Stephen uses a more specific, descriptive word in place of a more generic one. The volunteers aren't going to get food or dinner; they're going for "Texas BBQ." The coat hanger comes from "a dumpster." Stephen doesn't just move the coat hanger—he "jiggles" it.

Details also help us visualize the emotions of the people in the scene. The person who hands Stephen the coat hanger isn't just uncomfortable or nervous; he "takes a few steps back"—a description of movement that conveys feelings. Finally, the detail of actual speech makes the scene pop. Instead of writing that the other guy asked him to unlock the van, Stephen has the guy actually say his own words in a way that sounds like a teenager talking.

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Turning a Specific Incident Into a Deeper Insight

Suddenly, two things simultaneously clicked. One was the lock on the door. (I actually succeeded in springing it.) The other was the realization that I'd been in this type of situation before. In fact, I'd been born into this type of situation.

Stephen makes the locked car experience a meaningful illustration of how he has learned to be resourceful and ready for anything, and he also makes this turn from the specific to the broad through an elegant play on the two meanings of the word "click."

Using Concrete Examples When Making Abstract Claims

My upbringing has numbed me to unpredictability and chaos. With a family of seven, my home was loud, messy, and spottily supervised. My siblings arguing, the dog barking, the phone ringing—all meant my house was functioning normally.

"Unpredictability and chaos" are very abstract, not easily visualized concepts. They could also mean any number of things—violence, abandonment, poverty, mental instability. By instantly following up with highly finite and unambiguous illustrations like "family of seven" and "siblings arguing, the dog barking, the phone ringing," Stephen grounds the abstraction in something that is easy to picture: a large, noisy family.

Using Small Bits of Humor and Casual Word Choice

My Dad, a retired Navy pilot, was away half the time. When he was home, he had a parenting style something like a drill sergeant. At the age of nine, I learned how to clear burning oil from the surface of water. My Dad considered this a critical life skill—you know, in case my aircraft carrier should ever get torpedoed.

Obviously, knowing how to clean burning oil is not high on the list of things every 9-year-old needs to know. To emphasize this, Stephen uses sarcasm by bringing up a situation that is clearly over-the-top: "in case my aircraft carrier should ever get torpedoed."

The humor also feels relaxed. Part of this is because he introduces it with the colloquial phrase "you know," so it sounds like he is talking to us in person. This approach also diffuses the potential discomfort of the reader with his father's strictness—since he is making jokes about it, clearly he is OK. Notice, though, that this doesn't occur very much in the essay. This helps keep the tone meaningful and serious rather than flippant.

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An Ending That Stretches the Insight Into the Future

But one day this fall, Dr. Hicks, our Head of School, asked me a question that he hoped all seniors would reflect on throughout the year: "How can I participate in a thing I do not govern, in the company of people I did not choose?"

The ending of the essay reveals that Stephen's life has been one long preparation for the future. He has emerged from chaos and his dad's approach to parenting as a person who can thrive in a world that he can't control.

This connection of past experience to current maturity and self-knowledge is a key element in all successful personal essays. Colleges are very much looking for mature, self-aware applicants. These are the qualities of successful college students, who will be able to navigate the independence college classes require and the responsibility and quasi-adulthood of college life.

What Could This Essay Do Even Better?

Even the best essays aren't perfect, and even the world's greatest writers will tell you that writing is never "finished"—just "due." So what would we tweak in this essay if we could?

Replace some of the clichéd language. Stephen uses handy phrases like "twists and turns" and "don't sweat the small stuff" as a kind of shorthand for explaining his relationship to chaos and unpredictability. But using too many of these ready-made expressions runs the risk of clouding out your own voice and replacing it with something expected and boring.

Use another example from recent life. Stephen's first example (breaking into the van in Laredo) is a great illustration of being resourceful in an unexpected situation. But his essay also emphasizes that he "learned to adapt" by being "different things to different people." It would be great to see how this plays out outside his family, either in the situation in Laredo or another context.

Want to build the best possible college application?   We can help.   PrepScholar Admissions combines world-class admissions counselors with our data-driven, proprietary admissions strategies. We've guided thousands of students to get into their top choice schools, from state colleges to the Ivy League. We know what kinds of students colleges want to admit and are driven to get you admitted to your dream schools. Learn more about PrepScholar Admissions to maximize your chance of getting in:

Example 2: By Renner Kwittken, Tufts Class of '23 (Common App Essay, 645 words long)

My first dream job was to be a pickle truck driver. I saw it in my favorite book, Richard Scarry's "Cars and Trucks and Things That Go," and for some reason, I was absolutely obsessed with the idea of driving a giant pickle. Much to the discontent of my younger sister, I insisted that my parents read us that book as many nights as possible so we could find goldbug, a small little golden bug, on every page. I would imagine the wonderful life I would have: being a pig driving a giant pickle truck across the country, chasing and finding goldbug. I then moved on to wanting to be a Lego Master. Then an architect. Then a surgeon.

Then I discovered a real goldbug: gold nanoparticles that can reprogram macrophages to assist in killing tumors, produce clear images of them without sacrificing the subject, and heat them to obliteration.

Suddenly the destination of my pickle was clear.

I quickly became enveloped by the world of nanomedicine; I scoured articles about liposomes, polymeric micelles, dendrimers, targeting ligands, and self-assembling nanoparticles, all conquering cancer in some exotic way. Completely absorbed, I set out to find a mentor to dive even deeper into these topics. After several rejections, I was immensely grateful to receive an invitation to work alongside Dr. Sangeeta Ray at Johns Hopkins.

In the lab, Dr. Ray encouraged a great amount of autonomy to design and implement my own procedures. I chose to attack a problem that affects the entire field of nanomedicine: nanoparticles consistently fail to translate from animal studies into clinical trials. Jumping off recent literature, I set out to see if a pre-dose of a common chemotherapeutic could enhance nanoparticle delivery in aggressive prostate cancer, creating three novel constructs based on three different linear polymers, each using fluorescent dye (although no gold, sorry goldbug!). Though using radioactive isotopes like Gallium and Yttrium would have been incredible, as a 17-year-old, I unfortunately wasn't allowed in the same room as these radioactive materials (even though I took a Geiger counter to a pair of shoes and found them to be slightly dangerous).

I hadn't expected my hypothesis to work, as the research project would have ideally been led across two full years. Yet while there are still many optimizations and revisions to be done, I was thrilled to find -- with completely new nanoparticles that may one day mean future trials will use particles with the initials "RK-1" -- thatcyclophosphamide did indeed increase nanoparticle delivery to the tumor in a statistically significant way.

A secondary, unexpected research project was living alone in Baltimore, a new city to me, surrounded by people much older than I. Even with moving frequently between hotels, AirBnB's, and students' apartments, I strangely reveled in the freedom I had to enjoy my surroundings and form new friendships with graduate school students from the lab. We explored The Inner Harbor at night, attended a concert together one weekend, and even got to watch the Orioles lose (to nobody's surprise). Ironically, it's through these new friendships I discovered something unexpected: what I truly love is sharing research. Whether in a presentation or in a casual conversation, making others interested in science is perhaps more exciting to me than the research itself. This solidified a new pursuit to angle my love for writing towards illuminating science in ways people can understand, adding value to a society that can certainly benefit from more scientific literacy.

It seems fitting that my goals are still transforming: in Scarry's book, there is not just one goldbug, there is one on every page. With each new experience, I'm learning that it isn't the goldbug itself, but rather the act of searching for the goldbugs that will encourage, shape, and refine my ever-evolving passions. Regardless of the goldbug I seek -- I know my pickle truck has just begun its journey.

Renner takes a somewhat different approach than Stephen, but their essay is just as detailed and engaging. Let's go through some of the strengths of this essay.

One Clear Governing Metaphor

This essay is ultimately about two things: Renner’s dreams and future career goals, and Renner’s philosophy on goal-setting and achieving one’s dreams.

But instead of listing off all the amazing things they’ve done to pursue their dream of working in nanomedicine, Renner tells a powerful, unique story instead. To set up the narrative, Renner opens the essay by connecting their experiences with goal-setting and dream-chasing all the way back to a memorable childhood experience:

This lighthearted–but relevant!--story about the moment when Renner first developed a passion for a specific career (“finding the goldbug”) provides an anchor point for the rest of the essay. As Renner pivots to describing their current dreams and goals–working in nanomedicine–the metaphor of “finding the goldbug” is reflected in Renner’s experiments, rejections, and new discoveries.

Though Renner tells multiple stories about their quest to “find the goldbug,” or, in other words, pursue their passion, each story is connected by a unifying theme; namely, that as we search and grow over time, our goals will transform…and that’s okay! By the end of the essay, Renner uses the metaphor of “finding the goldbug” to reiterate the relevance of the opening story:

While the earlier parts of the essay convey Renner’s core message by showing, the final, concluding paragraph sums up Renner’s insights by telling. By briefly and clearly stating the relevance of the goldbug metaphor to their own philosophy on goals and dreams, Renner demonstrates their creativity, insight, and eagerness to grow and evolve as the journey continues into college.

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An Engaging, Individual Voice

This essay uses many techniques that make Renner sound genuine and make the reader feel like we already know them.

Technique #1: humor. Notice Renner's gentle and relaxed humor that lightly mocks their younger self's grand ambitions (this is different from the more sarcastic kind of humor used by Stephen in the first essay—you could never mistake one writer for the other).

My first dream job was to be a pickle truck driver.

I would imagine the wonderful life I would have: being a pig driving a giant pickle truck across the country, chasing and finding goldbug. I then moved on to wanting to be a Lego Master. Then an architect. Then a surgeon.

Renner gives a great example of how to use humor to your advantage in college essays. You don’t want to come off as too self-deprecating or sarcastic, but telling a lightheartedly humorous story about your younger self that also showcases how you’ve grown and changed over time can set the right tone for your entire essay.

Technique #2: intentional, eye-catching structure. The second technique is the way Renner uses a unique structure to bolster the tone and themes of their essay . The structure of your essay can have a major impact on how your ideas come across…so it’s important to give it just as much thought as the content of your essay!

For instance, Renner does a great job of using one-line paragraphs to create dramatic emphasis and to make clear transitions from one phase of the story to the next:

Suddenly the destination of my pickle car was clear.

Not only does the one-liner above signal that Renner is moving into a new phase of the narrative (their nanoparticle research experiences), it also tells the reader that this is a big moment in Renner’s story. It’s clear that Renner made a major discovery that changed the course of their goal pursuit and dream-chasing. Through structure, Renner conveys excitement and entices the reader to keep pushing forward to the next part of the story.

Technique #3: playing with syntax. The third technique is to use sentences of varying length, syntax, and structure. Most of the essay's written in standard English and uses grammatically correct sentences. However, at key moments, Renner emphasizes that the reader needs to sit up and pay attention by switching to short, colloquial, differently punctuated, and sometimes fragmented sentences.

Even with moving frequently between hotels, AirBnB's, and students' apartments, I strangely reveled in the freedom I had to enjoy my surroundings and form new friendships with graduate school students from the lab. We explored The Inner Harbor at night, attended a concert together one weekend, and even got to watch the Orioles lose (to nobody's surprise). Ironically, it's through these new friendships I discovered something unexpected: what I truly love is sharing research.

In the examples above, Renner switches adeptly between long, flowing sentences and quippy, telegraphic ones. At the same time, Renner uses these different sentence lengths intentionally. As they describe their experiences in new places, they use longer sentences to immerse the reader in the sights, smells, and sounds of those experiences. And when it’s time to get a big, key idea across, Renner switches to a short, punchy sentence to stop the reader in their tracks.

The varying syntax and sentence lengths pull the reader into the narrative and set up crucial “aha” moments when it’s most important…which is a surefire way to make any college essay stand out.

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Renner's essay is very strong, but there are still a few little things that could be improved.

Connecting the research experiences to the theme of “finding the goldbug.”  The essay begins and ends with Renner’s connection to the idea of “finding the goldbug.” And while this metaphor is deftly tied into the essay’s intro and conclusion, it isn’t entirely clear what Renner’s big findings were during the research experiences that are described in the middle of the essay. It would be great to add a sentence or two stating what Renner’s big takeaways (or “goldbugs”) were from these experiences, which add more cohesion to the essay as a whole.

Give more details about discovering the world of nanomedicine. It makes sense that Renner wants to get into the details of their big research experiences as quickly as possible. After all, these are the details that show Renner’s dedication to nanomedicine! But a smoother transition from the opening pickle car/goldbug story to Renner’s “real goldbug” of nanoparticles would help the reader understand why nanoparticles became Renner’s goldbug. Finding out why Renner is so motivated to study nanomedicine–and perhaps what put them on to this field of study–would help readers fully understand why Renner chose this path in the first place.

4 Essential Tips for Writing Your Own Essay

How can you use this discussion to better your own college essay? Here are some suggestions for ways to use this resource effectively.

#1: Get Help From the Experts

Getting your college applications together takes a lot of work and can be pretty intimidatin g. Essays are even more important than ever now that admissions processes are changing and schools are going test-optional and removing diversity standards thanks to new Supreme Court rulings .  If you want certified expert help that really makes a difference, get started with  PrepScholar’s Essay Editing and Coaching program. Our program can help you put together an incredible essay from idea to completion so that your application stands out from the crowd. We've helped students get into the best colleges in the United States, including Harvard, Stanford, and Yale.  If you're ready to take the next step and boost your odds of getting into your dream school, connect with our experts today .

#2: Read Other Essays to Get Ideas for Your Own

As you go through the essays we've compiled for you above, ask yourself the following questions:

  • Can you explain to yourself (or someone else!) why the opening sentence works well?
  • Look for the essay's detailed personal anecdote. What senses is the author describing? Can you easily picture the scene in your mind's eye?
  • Find the place where this anecdote bridges into a larger insight about the author. How does the essay connect the two? How does the anecdote work as an example of the author's characteristic, trait, or skill?
  • Check out the essay's tone. If it's funny, can you find the places where the humor comes from? If it's sad and moving, can you find the imagery and description of feelings that make you moved? If it's serious, can you see how word choice adds to this tone?

Make a note whenever you find an essay or part of an essay that you think was particularly well-written, and think about what you like about it . Is it funny? Does it help you really get to know the writer? Does it show what makes the writer unique? Once you have your list, keep it next to you while writing your essay to remind yourself to try and use those same techniques in your own essay.

body-gears-cogs-puzzle-cc0

#3: Find Your "A-Ha!" Moment

All of these essays rely on connecting with the reader through a heartfelt, highly descriptive scene from the author's life. It can either be very dramatic (did you survive a plane crash?) or it can be completely mundane (did you finally beat your dad at Scrabble?). Either way, it should be personal and revealing about you, your personality, and the way you are now that you are entering the adult world.

Check out essays by authors like John Jeremiah Sullivan , Leslie Jamison , Hanif Abdurraqib , and Esmé Weijun Wang to get more examples of how to craft a compelling personal narrative.

#4: Start Early, Revise Often

Let me level with you: the best writing isn't writing at all. It's rewriting. And in order to have time to rewrite, you have to start way before the application deadline. My advice is to write your first draft at least two months before your applications are due.

Let it sit for a few days untouched. Then come back to it with fresh eyes and think critically about what you've written. What's extra? What's missing? What is in the wrong place? What doesn't make sense? Don't be afraid to take it apart and rearrange sections. Do this several times over, and your essay will be much better for it!

For more editing tips, check out a style guide like Dreyer's English or Eats, Shoots & Leaves .

body_next_step_drawing_blackboard

What's Next?

Still not sure which colleges you want to apply to? Our experts will show you how to make a college list that will help you choose a college that's right for you.

Interested in learning more about college essays? Check out our detailed breakdown of exactly how personal statements work in an application , some suggestions on what to avoid when writing your essay , and our guide to writing about your extracurricular activities .

Working on the rest of your application? Read what admissions officers wish applicants knew before applying .

Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points or your ACT score by 4 points?   We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download them for free now:

The recommendations in this post are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links PrepScholar may receive a commission.

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Anna scored in the 99th percentile on her SATs in high school, and went on to major in English at Princeton and to get her doctorate in English Literature at Columbia. She is passionate about improving student access to higher education.

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School Life Vs College Life Essay

school vs college life essay

Show More The college years are amazing and a lot of things are there to do. The freedom and the individuality that college years raise in any persons life are important. But despite all of these features that make college years precious the are not in my opinion the best time that any person will have. If we compared the high school and the elementary school years to the college years I will favor the high and elementary schools years. The high school friends are the best and the brief time that any person will spend with them it has a lot of value. For example, my brother is remembering his high school friends everyday I set with him it became a accustomed for my brother to tell me stores, but it explain a lot that my brother is always communicate with his high …show more content… A friend of mine graduated from the university in now unemployed he told me that he took the university as easy as it was in high school and he fail in some courses and he is regretting everyday he spend to joy himself and always advice me to take the university seriously. Finally, the time after graduating and start making adventures even without a huge budget is the person's best time ever. My brother is a marine life researcher and every time I met him when he came back from his job he start telling my stores and he is a very good narrator. He explain how he is going to some costs and having fun in the middle of the blue sea. In conclusion, it is great years the college years but they are not as special than as any of other years. High school's years are better than any other educational years. The hard time colleges are giving and the importance of it will make it impossible to have fun, But despite all of these having a job that you love after graduation is the best time in any person's

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  1. School life vs College life

    School life prepares you to be an adult. College life teaches you how to actually adult. Both experiences are fun in their own ways and offer very unique experiences. It is definitely a tough question to answer when someone asks you which life was better. You've had your share of fun and experiences in both and will cherish it throughout your ...

  2. School Life and College Life (Paragraph / Composition / Essay )

    Paragraph Writing School Life and College LifeSchool life and college life are two distinct stages in a student's academic journey, each with its own characteristics. Generally, school life tends to be more structured and disciplined compared to college life. During school years, students are bound by various rules and regulations imposed by parents and teachers. They must adhere to dress ...

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    Essay. School Life vs. College Life. There is a great deal of difference between school life and college life. School life is a life of restrictions and control, a life in which the student has to be accountable for his daily work with his teachers and his guardian. But a college student, on the other hand, enjoys a much greater freedom from ...

  4. High School vs. College: Contrasts and Comparisons

    High school and college have distinct differences and similarities that shape students' academic and social experiences. From the structure of the education system to the level of independence and responsibilities, navigating the transition from high school to college can be challenging.This article will explore the key contrasts and comparisons between high school and college life based on ...

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    In this essay, we will explore the similarities and differences between school life and college life, highlighting the unique characteristics of each stage. I. Structure and Curriculum.

  6. School life vs College life Essay

    Essay - School life vs College life. School life vs College life Essay: School life is the most effective stage of a person's life for growing and developing in every aspect. Being in the learning stage of life, we have to be under complete restrictions and control under definite rules. School students have to be obedient to their teachers ...

  7. College Life Essay

    100 Words Essay On College Life. One of the most memorable periods of a person's life is often their time in college. Compared to school life, it is completely different. We are exposed to new experiences and ideas during our time in college. Our schools were a secure environment where we had spent the majority of our time growing up.

  8. High School Vs College: Compare and Contrast

    Hook Examples for "High School Vs College" Essay. A Student's Journey: As students transition from the familiar hallways of high school to the uncharted territory of college campuses, they embark on a transformative journey. Explore the differences that define this educational evolution. Two Worlds Collide: Imagine straddling the line between two worlds - the structured environment of ...

  9. Free School Life Vs College Life Essay Examples and Topic Ideas

    School Life Vs College Life - Free Essay Examples and Topic Ideas. School life and college life differ from each other in various aspects. In school, students have a fixed routine, time-table, and set curriculum. Students usually attend school for five to six hours per day and have a fixed schedule for homework assignments and exams.

  10. High School vs College: 15 Key Differences

    The biggest change for high school vs. college is that, in college, you'll have much more independence than you had in high school. Many people focus on the fact that you'll be living away from your parents, and this is a part of it, but you'll have independence in many other areas as well. You'll have the freedom to decide what you want to ...

  11. College Life Essay for Students and Children

    500 Words Essay on College Life. College life is known as one of the most memorable years of one's life. It is entirely different from school life. College life exposes us to new experiences and things that we were not familiar with earlier. For some people, college life means enjoying life to the fullest and partying hard.

  12. High School and College Life

    High School and College are two different and polar opposite periods of an individual's life. This is true for most of the student population in the world. The one similarity that both the periods share is that these are the times when the individual is on the verge of self-discovery and patenting a path for his and her future. We will write ...

  13. 20 Differences Between High School & College Life

    College: You get to live with your friends in college. High School: You wake up early in the morning for class in high school. College: You wake up for your first class (or whenever you want). High School: In high school, you were forced to learn all subjects. College: In college, you get to learn whatever you want to.

  14. College Essay Examples

    Table of contents. Essay 1: Sharing an identity or background through a montage. Essay 2: Overcoming a challenge, a sports injury narrative. Essay 3: Showing the influence of an important person or thing. Other interesting articles. Frequently asked questions about college application essays.

  15. Difference between school life and college life

    High school and college life are two very different and contrasting phases of one's life. Let's have a look some of most prominent difference between the two. Check CBSE Board Result Date and Time ...

  16. College Life Essay for Students in English

    College life is not only about the study but also about the overall development of an individual through various activities and challenges. In College Life, one gets a chance to make their own decisions. In school life, students get an opportunity to be class monitors. In College Life, an individual gets a chance to nominate himself/herself for ...

  17. School Life And College Life Essay

    821 Words. 4 Pages. Open Document. An Essay on School Life and College Life. There is a great deal of difference between school life and college life. School life is a life of restrictions and control, a life in which the student has to be accountable for his daily work to his teachers and his guardian. But a college student, of the other hand ...

  18. Which is Better: School Life or College Life?

    1. Social Life. One of the major differences between school life and college life is the social life. During school life, students have the chance to form close relationships with their peers, teachers, and counselors. The atmosphere is often more intimate and open. College life, on the other hand, is a much different experience.

  19. High School vs. College Compare and Contrast Essay

    In conclusion, high school and college have similarities but mostly have differences. They contrast with the curriculum or subject offered and the level of difficulty of lessons and assessments. In addition, they differ in terms of workload and the students' ability to manage their time. Their differences exist for a purpose, but their goal ...

  20. School Life Vs College Life Essay

    School or college is the place to gain more knowledge. Education enables the individuals to achieve their growth in his career. The transition from high school to college makes depression and anxiety. It is also the process of growing into adulthood from youth. There are so many differences between school life and college life, and these ...

  21. Difference Between School Life And College Life

    An Essay on School Life and College Life. There is a great deal of difference between school life and college life. School life is a life of restrictions and control, a life in which the student has to be accountable for his daily work to his teachers and his guardian. But a college student, of the other hand, enjoys much greater freedom from ...

  22. 177 College Essay Examples for 11 Schools + Expert Analysis

    Technique #1: humor. Notice Renner's gentle and relaxed humor that lightly mocks their younger self's grand ambitions (this is different from the more sarcastic kind of humor used by Stephen in the first essay—you could never mistake one writer for the other). My first dream job was to be a pickle truck driver.

  23. School Life Vs College Life Essay

    School Life Vs College Life Essay. Improved Essays. 402 Words. 2 Pages. Open Document. Essay Sample Check Writing Quality. Show More. The college years are amazing and a lot of things are there to do. The freedom and the individuality that college years raise in any persons life are important.

  24. Should College Freshmen Choose Their Roommates?

    In the Opinion essay " What Is Lost When Freshmen Choose Their Roommates, " Pamela Paul argues that living with a stranger can be good for young people: For many adults, the first and last ...

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    Hosted by Michael Barbaro. Featuring Jonathan Wolfe and Peter Baker. Produced by Diana Nguyen , Luke Vander Ploeg , Alexandra Leigh Young, Nina Feldman and Carlos Prieto. Edited by Lisa Chow and ...