university hopping?

Question

my step son a fairly bright person, good student at least he passes. my question is is it normal to go from university to university he is in his 5 th year but has been to 3 universities in that time.... is this normal or is there something wrong.

Thank You all for your answers.
every reply gave me a little more insight into my question

Answer 1

No, this isn't normal. He could possibly be having difficulties with his students/professors or his educational choices (most likely). It could also be a mild form of ADHD or he could simply be a perfectionist. Many of those suffering from these disorders have a difficult time committing to anything for too long before they move on again to something else more challenging. These people are often extremely bright and have difficulty concentrating. I just bring that up as another possibility. I don't know his age, but if he is nervous about making these adult choices, he may be suffering from anxiety. College can bring this to the boiling point for the best of us. Have a heart to heart with him if you can. See if he can share any concerns. If there aren't any he wants to talk about, then you should see how much longer he has to go to complete his degree (how many courses/credits). If he's not too far from finishing, you can perhaps help him have a motivation for finishing. Some sort of personal reward, such as a family trip or whatnot. It doesn't have to be an expensive gift to be a great reward. If he's a long way off after five years, then you need to set some goals with him (especially if you're paying for it). College is tough, especially if he's not getting guidance at his schools. Some colleges will let students flounder, without help, if they're not brought to someone's attention.

Answer 2

It's more common than you would think. I know people who have been to three colleges and there reason was that the first two just didn't "fit" them.
If he's happy with his third choice, then I wouldn't worry. However, if after 5 years of college he wants to switch to a fourth university, then you may want to talk to him about it.
Some things to consider: Does he want to be in college or are you or his father/mother forcing him to go? Does he have a major? Is he living on campus? Is he changing schools to get away from friends who he had a disagreement with?
Since you ask this question, we know you're concerned and want the best for him. Remind him he always has his family to love and support him and talk to him about the situation. If you have a good relationship with him this shouldnt' be a problem.
Also, spending 5 years at college is a growing trend. With some majors it's almost impossible to graduate in four years (especially since classes at other uni's may not count).

Answer 3

It all depends on circumstances. Perhaps he moves because it's close to his job? cost of tuition? other factors? Many students do not follow a traditional four year plan to allow for work. Sometimes a change of interest happens and one must go to a university that has a program more suited to their interests..whatever delay this causes will lead to happiness and job satisfaction in the long run. While some delay may happen, most courses are transferrable if all the institutions are accredited. Unless there's other factors you don't mention, I see no reason to think there's something wrong.

Answer 4

Depends. I'm in my third year and I've been to two different unis. My first one just didn't feel right - I was in the wrong course and hated it. The one I'm at now is fantastic but interstate so I'm thinking of transferring again.

Is he still in the same course or is he changing uni's and starting new courses? If it's the latter then perhaps he might benefit from careers counselling?

You should probably have a chat with him and find out whats going on.

Answer 5

If he doesn't have a set major yet, then he has a problem. Usually, school counselors recommend to drop out if the student is still undeclared by the end of their freshman year.

Every time one switches institutions, an extra year is added on to graduation.

Answer 6

Sounds like there have been some problems. Will he graduate soon? If yes, and he does, I wouldn't worry. If no, and he finds a new school, he may need counseling.