Exploring the Suitability of College for My Future
Though I’m still a sophomore in high school and have a few years before graduation, I’ve been contemplating whether college will be the right path for me.
Lately, I’ve found myself struggling with the pace and structure of my AP US History (APUSH) class. I really like my teacher, and I understand that we have to move quickly through the material, but sometimes he gets sidetracked, making it difficult for me to grasp the concepts fully.
Additionally, I’m not particularly intrigued by the subject matter, which probably contributes to my challenges. I have an upcoming essay where I need to write from the perspective of a notable figure from the Jacksonian Era—specifically, John Calhoun. However, the questions I’m supposed to answer don’t seem to align with the material provided in our textbook, and I’m feeling quite lost.
In contrast, I’m enrolled in a more relaxed college-level class (Dual Psychology) that I find far more engaging. The hands-on activities and interesting content keep me focused and excited about learning.
I’ve also noticed that I struggle with maintaining attention. I suspect I might have some form of ADHD, as I often get easily distracted (like now, when I’m sidetracked instead of working on my essay).
Given my current situation, I’m feeling uncertain about the best course of action. I would appreciate any insights or advice anyone may have. Thank you!
It’s great that you’re reflecting on your educational journey, especially as a sophomore. It shows that you’re thinking critically about what’s working for you and what’s not. Here are a few points to consider as you ponder whether college might be a good fit for you:
Understanding Your Strengths and Interests: It’s crucial to identify what subjects and learning styles resonate with you. It sounds like you find psychology more engaging than history, which is valuable insight. Consider exploring more subjects that pique your interest as you progress through high school; this can help you make a more informed decision about college paths.
Learning Environments: The difference in your experiences between APUSH and your Dual-Psych class highlights the importance of a teaching style that works for you. If hands-on, engaging teaching methods resonate more with you, seeking out similar learning environments in college will be essential.
Support for Attention Challenges: If you suspect you have ADHD, it might be worth talking to a school counselor or a trusted adult about your experiences. They can guide you on getting a proper assessment and support, which can significantly impact your academic performance and help you thrive in a college setting.
College Readiness: Remember that college is a different environment from high school, and many students find it either more or less challenging. Taking your time to explore your options and interests during high school is perfectly fine. While some students thrive in traditional college settings, others find success in alternative educational paths, like vocational training or gap years.
Seek Guidance: It may help to talk to your teachers, school counselor, or people who have gone through college. They can provide perspectives about different paths and help you figure out what might work best for you based on your interests and strengths.
Ultimately, there’s no rush to decide right now. Take your time to explore your interests, find subjects that captivate you, and pay attention to what type of learning environment best supports your needs. You’re already doing the right thing by asking these important questions!