If you just graduated from high school, you will find some clear differences between high school and college. For instance, in college you are probably part of a more diverse student body, not just in terms of race but also in terms of age, religion, political opinions, and life experiences. You have more potential friends to choose from; they may or may not be from your neighborhood, place of worship, or high school.

Also, you can choose from many more types of courses, but managing your time is sure to be more difficult because your classes will meet on different days and times, and you will have additional commitments, including work, family, and community activities. In high school, you may have had frequent tests and quizzes, but tests in college are sometimes given only twice a term. You will most likely be required to do more writing in college than in high school, and you will be encouraged to do original research and examine different points of view on a topic. You will be expected to study outside of class, prepare assignments, read different materials, and be ready for in-class discussions.

Your instructors might rely far less on textbooks and far more on lectures than your high school teachers did. But they also might allow you more freedom to express views that are different from theirs. You may also have opportunities to share and use some of your personal and work experience. Some of your instructors may have private offices and keep regular office hours, the posted hours when they are in their office and available to students. It’s up to you to take the initiative to visit your instructors during their office hours. Most instructors must keep office hours and must be available during that time, so don’t feel like you are asking them for a special favor. Check with your instructors to find out if you need to make an appointment before coming to their offices. You might be able to ask your instructor a quick question before or after class. While you will be able to get far more help by actually visiting his or her office. You can ask the instructor for direct help with any questions or problems that you have. By taking advantage of office hours, you will also let the instructor know that you are serious about learning.

Instructors who teach part-time at your college are called adjuncts, and they may not have assigned offices. Adjuncts often meet with their students before or after class or by appointment. Many students develop close relationships with their instructors. All college instructors are available to help you with your coursework, and you may also find one or more to be lifelong mentors and friends. The best way to make a connection with your instructors is to schedule appointments early in the term.