New to college, what do I do? What do I expect?

Question

I haven't been in a regular school program for a long time. I was home schooled for high school and have only taken a college class online. I am interested in starting to do one on campus to start while I'm still at community college.

If I do, what can I expect? I am thinking of doing my english or math class on campus. Probably english. Is there assigned seating? Will I have to read out loud? Is there some hand raising thing that goes on when you have a question? What goes on? What do I do? It's English comp 1.

What do I do in a classroom?

I know this is an odd question, but being home schooled, I just don't know!

Answer 1

college is different but you'll get used to it. now to answer your questions:

in all my years (just about four) of college i NEVER had assigned seating but students tend to pick a seat and stick with it for the entire semester. i usually gravitate to the same side of the room every class. and if someone is already sitting there, just sit somewhere else. its no big deal.

reading out loud was only encouraged in literature class. english comp involves more writing than reading.

the rule about raising your hand to speak is a bit looser. i usually speak out loud when i have a contribution to make, especially in a smaller class and there is usually no problem because everyone knows when they can or can't speak. in a larger class, raising your hand may be best.

most of all, just relax and take it all in. welcome to the real college experience.

Answer 2

There might be assigned seating, I'm not sure. For some classes there are and some there aren't (don't worry your teacher will let you know). You might have to read out loud, but normally it's voluntary, so you don't have to. Yes, you raise your hand when you have a question, or an answer to a question. Just go in there and pick a seat, and your teacher will explain the rules of the classroom, and he/she will give you a sylabus of everything you should expect from the class. It's not as nerve racking as you think. You'll do great!

Answer 3

There's an old rule about going to a formal dinner party where there are 17 pieces of silverware. Watch those around you to see what instrument to use next.

Seems a good idea here. I would introduce yourself to the teacher early on, and explain that you had been home schooled. That way if you DO make a mistake along the way, the teacher will know your background in advance.

Other than that - be quiet at the beginning and observe. Don't sit right in the front - pick a middle seat. You will get to know other students, and don't be afraid to ask for help or advice. I think others will be very interested in the home schooling - be prepared to answer a lot of questions.

You will do well, and I think you'll find you enjoy the environment. Don't let it scare you. Just be observant, and enjoy.

Good luck!

Answer 4

Our English courses were very much participation driven. Almost solely discussion amongst students governed by the teacher's questions and where they wanted to lead the discussion. There is no assigned seating, I never saw anyone read aloud in college and at times hand raising is necessary, especially if someone else is talking you can kind of reserve your spot to talk next if you raise your hand. Just participate some and you should be fine.

Good luck.

Answer 5

College is close to the same as any class room enviroment you have experienced (junior high, etc.) Usually there is not assigned seating and if there is they will tell you on the first day. Raise your hand to let the insructor know you have something to say. You shouldn't worry about it because everything gets explained on the first day. You will get a syllabus that explains what is expected and lists the homework and class schedule. Goodluck!!!

Answer 6

First do not worry to much about hurrying to make friends. This will come with time. Study and have good grades. Go the the sporting events, meet people but always study hard and do good in school. This is very important.