As seniors are starting to make their final college decisions, they must now prepare for the major changes and differences that they will face between high school and college. According to chemistry teacher Elizabeth Shafer, a recent graduate of Butler University, one of the biggest changes that seniors will face is the issue of time management.

“Many students find themselves with newfound free time at various points throughout the day, depending on their class schedules,” she said. “It is easy to get in the habit of doing nothing during these breaks instead of using the time wisely to work on assignments and study. Successful college students must be disciplined enough to study and complete assignments even if not required, as you will be expected to master the course material no matter what.”

Matt Flaherty, GKOM and senior, understands that the change is going to be big and that he is going to face a challenge with college.

“In order to prepare for the change, I am getting advice from other people that I know in college,” he said. “It is going to be a tough change, but I feel that Carmel has done a good job preparing me for college.”

According to Shafer, the best way to cope with these changes is to form some kind of study schedule to use in the week. She also said that some students join study groups that meet regularly.

“Learning to properly manage your time without someone holding your hand, telling you what to do can be difficult,” she said. “Being disciplined and putting good study habits into place early on will greatly benefit new college students by setting them up for academic success. “ By Ryan Zukerman <[email protected]>