Advice/Reassurance?

compmom
Wed, 28 Jul 2010 08:00:31 +0000

This may not be relevant to you, but I think it is reasonable to get some B’s or even C’s the first semester at a demanding college. Lots of freshman have this experience, and then do really well once they have “adjusted.” Relax, if you can, and give yourself time.

Try to enjoy the classes, and not think about grades. This sounds simple, maybe even silly, but is a profound challenge for many students who have been focused on “getting in” for so long.

Start slow with EC’s and figure out what you can handle, but getting involved in something other than coursework is very helpful.

The hardest thing at some of the top schools is peers’ ultra-competitive habits. Most students at Ivies have been living with a hyper-consciousness of grades and resumes, and have a hard time dropping that mentality. In fact, many are now on to the next stage of competitiveness, with medical/law/business school in mind.

You can be different.

You got such great advice above. You will probably do fine, but whether you get the top grade in a class or the bottom, try not to let it define your self-worth.