View Full Version : First Day of college and already thinking of leaving (ranting/venting)
Well today was my first day of college and I'm already thinking of leaving. It just doesn't feel right. It's kinda depressing to me. The work hasn't even really started yet; I don't know how I'll feel when it does start. I don't know it feels like I'm living in a dream world or something. All my friends going to school out of town and yeah it just doesn't feel right. I don't think college is the same as it once was. I hope its just that I'm not used to the change and that I'll get over it in a short time. Yes, I'm a little younger than I may have represented myself to be before. Sorry if this appears disorganized and messy.
I should have elaborated further. I am going to college in my hometown and living at home and I think that is where most of the problems are coming from strangely enough. I'm getting out of town next semester and I actually think it will cure a lot of these feelings if they are not over by then.
By the way, if I could transfer all of my scholarships and federal grant money to one of the many people that "would kill for the same opportunity" I would because they need it more than I do. I'm not trying to get rich anyway.
I'll pop in with updates on this every now and then.
I NO LONGER FEEL THE SAME AS WHEN I WROTE THIS A WEEK AGO.
Many people would kill to have the same opportunity.
Any job that you can get w/o a college degree, you can still get if you have a college degree. The opposite isn't necessarily true.
In addition, it has been said recently that a college degree is the new high school diploma... I can't say I entirely disagree with that statement.
If it's a lack of friends from HS that you're worried about, get over it. You will find great friends at school (as long as you're not a huge tool). Out of all the friends I had in high school, I am now only close to just one.
Von Hayes 08-25-2008, 21:34 I felt pretty much the same way. Actually, that's not true, when I first started out, it felt good. Over time I came to feel that way. Went for seven years and never finished.
Hopefully, it'll go the opposite way for you.
But don't feel guilty about taking the money. It's good for the economy.
WAAAAAHHHH!
I'm getting supported so that I can make more money in the future, have the time of my life, and chase 20-year-old chicks.
:crying:
Tailhunter 08-25-2008, 21:36 Stay ... don't run .. you will be very sorry if you don't stay and finish ...
.. I'm thinking right now that I'd rather work full time....
Doing what and for how much, exactly?
I'm thinking of two of my family members: one finished college and makes about 5x what the other does and has a heck of a lot easier and better job.
If you're feeling guilty for taking money, then work a part-time job during school.
Make sure you understand why you're emotions are going haywire right now.
Change of scenery? You'll get used to it.
Not a student-type? That's worth considering.
Need to experience life more before being stuck in a library all day? Consider the Marines, or Army etc, for a couple of years.
JeepGunR 08-25-2008, 21:38 Stick it out and finish. I felt the same way you did when I first started. I felt the same way again at the end. Every day I thank the lord that I did go ahead and finish. At the time I just did it for my parents. Now I think how blessed I am that I finished. It has helped me so much in life.
Finish, or you may regret it from now on. I am not saying anything against those that do not but if you have the oportunity now and don't take it you could regret it for the rest of your life.
Firecop203 08-25-2008, 21:39 Theres always the military.
Theres always the military.
Yeah, join up and let us know how Bagdad compares to . . . oh, wait. Never mind.
For Liberty 08-25-2008, 21:44 I can't imagine anything more normal.
I used to have the same thoughts as you, and I got advice online just like you are now.
Basically everyone told me to STFU, stop whining, buckle down, and realize what I want out of life. They told me that I'm in the REAL WORLD now, and in the real world you only get places if you're willing to work hard (dropping out and getting a job isn't working hard). I didn't like what they were saying at the time, but I realize now that they were right.
Hang in there, been there done that
WAAAAAHHHH!
I'm getting supported so that I can make more money in the future, have the time of my life, and chase 20-year-old chicks.
:crying:
Those aren't exactly my reasons for going to college. I'm going so that I could help bring about real change that we can believe in. :supergrin:
Someone said that there is always the military. I seriously considered joining the Navy for a while.
And no its not a change of scenery because I'm going to school in my home town at Kansas State University in Salina (not the main campus) . I think I would have felt a lot different if I would have left town. I think it's that I feel left out because all my friends got to leave and be out on their own and I got left behind. I've got friends that are going all over the place; one of them is going to Annapolis as a matter of fact.. I'm not getting the full college experience living at home. Next semester I'm transferring to Fort Hays State University in Kansas assuming I get through this semester ok. Ok I'm gonna quit acting like a little you know what now.
What do you want to do with your life? That will determine what you should do now. If working at McDonald's is your idea of a vocation, drop out. If you desire to be a doctor, study your little butt off.
windplex 08-25-2008, 21:59 Well today was my first day of college and I'm already thinking of leaving. It just doesn't feel right. It's kinda depressing to me. The work hasn't even really started yet; I don't know how I'll feel when it does start. I'm thinking right now that I'd rather work full time and make money rather than take money from my parents and the government. I don't know it feels like I'm living in a dream world or something. All my friends going to school out of town and yeah it just doesn't feel right. I don't think college is the same as it once was. I hope its just that I'm not used to the change and that I'll get over it in a short time. Yes, I'm a little younger than I may have represented myself to be before. Sorry if this appears disorganized and messy.
You know, I don't even like guns that much anymore and I'm not sure why I'm posting this on here.
Well a good friend expected to go to college and have dad pay for it as he did with older siblings.
Then dad said "you wont appreciate college (at this time and mind frame)" and so go to work in a factory for one year and then we'll talk about college again.
This man, now, came to appreciate the opportunity to go to college after that year in the factory. Nothing wrong with that work but he realized his dad was right he did not appreciate his opporunity (that of going to college).
He does now and has a good life for it.
How can you consider quitting after 1 day?! That willingness-to-quit-early attitude wont help in other pursuits either.
I would have to say that an undergrad degree is similar to what a highschool degree was in the 1950s. Attaining a grad degree is much like what a college degree was then.
Look around and consider what jobs are available to those without degrees? Certainly there are good jobs for those who chose a profession make a good living: carpenter, plumber, machinist, tool maker, etc. . But that too will take an investment of time and effort on your part. And many of those jobs are more and more technology driven.
Some things are worth sticking out, college is one of them. It is a fantastic time in ones life and that is difficult to comprehend while you are in the thows of it. Give it 1 year and see where you are with it then. I suspect you will find some subjects you enjoy by then not to mention the new freedoms not found in high school.
GLOCK_27 08-25-2008, 22:01 yeah school sucks, but when i go to work everyday and see people in their 40's and 50's getting the same little pay check as me now at 21, it makes me work harder in school.
What do you want to do with your life?
I WANT TO ROCK!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cPgE4FAXKIM
On a serious note, stay in. You will regret it later when you are forced to work to sustain yourself and your family and don't have the time/opportunity to go back. A couple of my friends didn't finish, and they are all having a hell of a time at 30 years old trying to manage a full time job and school at the same time. It took me a few years of trying different majors before I found one that I really enjoyed, but when you find it, it will all click for you.
Stick it out, Andy. I PROMISE you that things will get better. Your college years will be some of the best years of your life.
When I went off to college, I made it exactly three days before I came home. Seriously. I had a long talk with my Mom and Dad and gave them pretty much the same talk you just gave to us. They asked me to stick it out for a semester and after that, if I still felt the same way, I could leave.
By the end of the first semester you could hardly get me to come home. I loved college life. I loved my school, the campus, my friends, etc., etc.
Finished and never looked back. Stick with it. Your education is the best investment you could ever make in yourself. In this day and age, it is extremely difficult to make it with only a high school education.
Good luck to you.
major (A.A., B.S., M.A., J.D.)
Didn't you start the same thread a few months back? Quit.
PatrolMom 08-25-2008, 22:21 Well today was my first day of college and I'm already thinking of leaving. It just doesn't feel right. It's kinda depressing to me. The work hasn't even really started yet; I don't know how I'll feel when it does start. I'm thinking right now that I'd rather work full time and make money rather than take money from my parents and the government. I don't know it feels like I'm living in a dream world or something. All my friends going to school out of town and yeah it just doesn't feel right. I don't think college is the same as it once was. I hope its just that I'm not used to the change and that I'll get over it in a short time. Yes, I'm a little younger than I may have represented myself to be before. Sorry if this appears disorganized and messy.
You know, I'm not sure why I'm posting this on here.
Andy...you say that you don't think college is the same as once was and I am wondering from what information do you draw this conclusion?
From what I can tell about your post, you simply are apprehensive about your future and appear to be throwing all sorts of red herrings in the way of your success.
Taking money from your parents and the government, sounds like a cop-out...yes, and out dated term, but one that fits. If you were really concerned about that, you wouldn't have headed down this path to begin with.
Perhaps you simply need some reassurance that even though this all feels strange and new and uncertain, you actually will become a better person for investing in yourself.
College isn't about what others think of you, it's about what you will ultimately grow and think of yourself. By that I mean, what will you do with your life? College opens many more doors. It's not the end, but the beginning.
I say, put one foot in front of the other, conquer your fears and look to the future. Decide today, that you will do this again tomorrow and the next and the next, and before you know it, you will have discovered your purpose and your rhythm in life.
Enjoy this time...it's not forever...it's so temporary, but the rewards from your efforts will carry you for many years come.
NOW, GO TO SCHOOL!!!
P.S....you will know you have grown up when you look to yourself for reassurance. You will be your best judge. :cool:
And no its not a change of scenery because I'm going to school in my home town at Kansas State University in Salina (not the main campus) . I think I would have felt a lot different if I would have left town. I think it's that I feel left out because all my friends got to leave and be out on their own and I got left behind. I've got friends that are going all over the place; one of them is going to Annapolis as a matter of fact.. I'm not getting the full college experience living at home. Next semester I'm transferring to Fort Hays State University in Kansas assuming I get through this semester ok. Ok I'm gonna quit acting like a little you know what now.
I see the problem.....you're not going to KU.
Seriously though, stick it out. You'll never, ever look back on this time and say "if only i'd just gotten a job and worked for those 4 years instead of getting a degree"
I didn't say I'm quitting just yet. I said that I was thinking about it but I'll give it some more time. Like i said if I can make it through this first semester living at home, which in my case is even worse that being out on my own, I'm transferring out of here.
By the way, are there any current or former Fort Hays State University students on here?
And JMS, I did not post a thread about this before. I posted one asking about majoring in criminal justice in Cop Talk not about quitting college.
RTL, if I was the type that liked bigger crowds I would be going to KU.
Stick it out man. It will get better. I'm a KSU student in my final semester and can honestly say that it has been the best time of my life. I have met a lot of cool people...not to mention my wonderful girlfriend!
EVERYONE feels the same way, when they first start college... EVERYONE.
It's the first time you're away from home.. you have to let your roots put down. Once you make a few friends and you get comfortable with the freedom and the classes... you'll laugh at your present fears.
you'll have the time of your life.. just relax and take it all in stride.
...this first semester living at home, .
see my post above, but be reminded that this ^^^will hamper your transition... because you'll spend your time commuting and living with your parents while your peers are spending their time entertaining each other in various forms.
everyone I knew in college who lived with their parents never got the social part of college, only the academic part. They'd come to class, turn in their work, then drive home. it's of utmost importance that you rent an apartment with some classmates you meet or check in to the dorm.
hill billy 08-25-2008, 22:50 You're ready to quit after ONE DAY? GRow up, bud.
windplex 08-25-2008, 22:52 I didn't say I'm quitting just yet. I said that I was thinking about it but I'll give it some more time. Like i said if I can make it through this first semester living at home, which in my case is even worse that being out on my own, I'm transferring out of here.
By the way, are there any current or former Fort Hays State University students on here?
And JMS, I did not post a thread about this before. I posted one asking about majoring in criminal justice in Cop Talk not about quitting college.
RTL, if I was the type that liked bigger crowds I would be going to KU.
Yea it is not the same when you are not living in the dorms when a freshman. Surrounded by hundreds of other people who are at college for the first time.
Keep in mind that every (most) college has a high opinion of itself and will want good grades from you -- b average or above to transfer is best and will give you choices of where to go -- like the one you want.
Attend some on-campus events and meet some folks outside of class.
Patrolmom hit good points.
Keep in mind that college and all its opportunities and time is something that most of us would not mind doing over. Once that unique time passes it is over. Join clubs. Do the unique activites offered there and you will meet others as well as taking full advantage of college.
Likely by the end of the week you will have a bit different view. If not do your best to engage at campus, that will likely help.
Texas357 08-25-2008, 22:53 Put in the time, do your homework. Don't get distracted. Don't get whiny.
If you finish a year, then still feel the same way, go try working at McDonald's for a semester, and see if not going to college is as boring as going
slewfoot 08-25-2008, 22:53 Well today was my first day of college and I'm already thinking of leaving. It just doesn't feel right. It's kinda depressing to me. The work hasn't even really started yet; I don't know how I'll feel when it does start. I'm thinking right now that I'd rather work full time and make money rather than take money from my parents and the government. I don't know it feels like I'm living in a dream world or something. All my friends going to school out of town and yeah it just doesn't feel right. I don't think college is the same as it once was. I hope its just that I'm not used to the change and that I'll get over it in a short time. Yes, I'm a little younger than I may have represented myself to be before. Sorry if this appears disorganized and messy.
You know, I'm not sure why I'm posting this on here.
Take it from someone who never had your opportunities. Stay where you are. Things always seem tougher at the beginning, but it gets easier once you make up your mind to succeed.
Trade me? I graduated from college last year and I'd kick babies for a chance to go back.
Greatest thing about college towns? The female population never gets any older. Fresh batch of 18-year olds every 6 months.
kapthook 08-25-2008, 22:54 Just finished my BS and am going back for my MS next semester (taking a year off)
I was just there with you. I never saw college in my plans at all.. I was the kid who barely graduated high school.
Turns out once you realize your paying a LOT of money for the opportunity to learn it can kick your butt in gear.. started on a Associates in a computer field, changed to General Associates and did not know what I wanted to.
Still didnt think I wanted a BS till I joined the Army and saw that even in the Army the higher your civilian education makes you more promotable.
Dont think you want to go to college? Go get that job.. I did.. worked concrete construction for 3 weeks till i became a quitter and said I was going back to school.. for that 3 weeks every night I went home and searched course catalogs till I found something that I could do and have a job later in lafe(Dont do an anthropology major unless your planning on writing your own ticket in 4 years)
I was there with you 5 years ago.. now on the other side and can tell you it looks a whole lot brighter.. dont party too hard.. get good grades.. take as many course credits you can each semester while keeping a semi social life and get it done with as soon as you can.. and you'll come out looking better than you did before..
And then if you want to join the Navy still Im sure they'll still take you.. and you'll go in with a little more expierience in life and make a little more money
windplex 08-25-2008, 22:57 Two of my kids just started their second year. My daughter is likely never coming home she loves the school and city it so much. My son perhaps one more summer at home then flies the coop in my estimation.
Both got involved in activities and made friends quickly. Sports for one and marching band for the other. However I believe getting involved in any on-campus activity / club would achieve the same results even though you commute. Give it a try and will make studies go easier as you are doing some activity you really enjoy with some folks you get to know.
Seriously. I had a long talk with my Mom and Dad and gave them pretty much the same talk you just gave to us.
.....
major (A.A., B.S., M.A., J.D.)
That must have been one helluva talk, your honor. :tongueout:
windplex 08-25-2008, 23:21 An old-old saying:
BS - Bull shyte
masters - more shyte
phd - piled hip deep...
still worth it.
I'm not going to get too involved at this school because I'm only going to be there this semester and don't want to get attached. Leaving will be easier this way. I will get involved when I get out to the school that I want to go to because I'll be living on campus this time and I plan on staying. I may not even come home for holidays after I leave.
mike7465 08-25-2008, 23:25 It will get better.
Goto rush week.
You will have a blast, meet some cool people and have some beers.
Parties are great, girls are better.
Study, that thing they tell you about the drop out rate is true.
You will be glad you did.
Click Clack 08-25-2008, 23:25 Andy, You’re just feeling a little anxiety. Take a breath, center yourself, and get on the other side of the bad feeling. You’re going to be fine. College is a lot of work and it is a full time job (no matter what anyone else says) but you’ll never make a better return on your investment in time that you do getting an undergraduate degree. Work hard. Play enough. Don’t get into a slacker mindset but don’t become one of those people that stroke out at 45 because they couldn’t stop working for a few minutes and have some fun. Going to college in your hometown cheats you of the best of the college experience. You’ll feel better when you move away next semester even if this one doesn’t seem to get better. You need to rise to the occasion and meet this challenge. All your friends here at GT know you can do it, even if they talk a little s**t to give you the drill instructor tough love. You’re about to work really hard and have a lot of fun. I know you’re going to do fine.
CC
For Liberty 08-25-2008, 23:25 I'm not going to get too involved at this school because I'm only going to be there this semester and don't want to get attached. Leaving will be easier this way. I will get involved when I get out to the school that I want to go to because I'll be living on campus this time and I plan on staying. I may not even come home for holidays after I leave.
You don't have to be all dramatic about it.
And I'd much rather live at home than live on my own. That was MY biggest mistake.
Dennis in MA 08-25-2008, 23:26 Been there, done that, felt that way. Sucks. Big time. Give it a few days or weeks. It gets better.
It helps to have a terrible home life. My wife (then g/f) had a pretty dysfunctional family. She loved college. I had a GREAT family. Hated college.
It's worth it in the end. Stick it out.
I'm not going to get too involved at this school because I'm only going to be there this semester and don't want to get attached. Leaving will be easier this way. I will get involved when I get out to the school that I want to go to because I'll be living on campus this time and I plan on staying. I may not even come home for holidays after I leave.
if your plan is to bail anyways, then what are you complaining about? it's like highschool but a longer drive... mom even makes you dinner.
are you going to a 4 year now? and are you transferring to a 4 year?
Deradius 08-25-2008, 23:36 ... Modern life is a choice between two paths, both equally worthy of respect.
You may go to college, or you may not, and you may be successful in either venture.
If you go to college (and don't major in underwater basketweaving), you may work in the air conditioning. You may work 9 - 5 if you wish, and support yourself modestly, or you may work a good solid 50 - 60 hour work week and be well off. Your job will consist of pushing pencils around, and variously either crunching numbers, writing things, telling other people things, telling other people what to do, or solving problems for people. You will be paid to be literate, articulate, competent, and for having a good work ethic (as measured by ability to work in a dedicated fashion while in the air conditioning).
I've never done an honest day's physical labor in my entire life.
I went to college because I'm lazy.
...If you don't go to college, you'll work long hours, but not because you want to be well off. You'll probably work sixty and eighty hours weeks, quite possibly in the hot sun, because that's what it takes to make ends meet these days for most folks. You'll have to work twice as hard as most people with degrees, and you'll have to bit your lip as they leapfrog over you into management positions that you are probably more qualified for, and intelligent enough to get.
It's a lifestyle choice.
And this is all governed by probability. There are folks who will chime in with degrees they don't think that they use (but that count when promotion time comes up), folks who got degrees but then started their own business and made it big, and there are folks who will chime in who are millionaires and never went to college.
People have also gone to Vegas, spun their life savings on the roulette wheel, and walked out flush.
....It's your call. What you do now dictates the course of your life - but one thing is for sure. Reading the blatherings of some moron on a message board (like myself) is not the proper way of going about what you want to do with your life.
#1. I don't know anyone who liked living at home while going to school. It generaly sucks. I think it is because you want to be on your own and your parents still see you as a kid.
#2. The best jobs can not be had without a diploma.
Looking back, I needed to leave home to grow up, but wished later that I could have stayed at home and saved money.
Roomates in college generally suck. Be glas you don't have someone waking you up, mesing with your stuff, and generally pissing you off.
So, suck it up. Live at home as long as you can (save the money). Study hard. I need you to support me when I get old. :)
#1. I don't know anyone who liked living at home while going to school. It generaly sucks. I think it is because you want to be on your own and your parents still see you as a kid.
#2. The best jobs can not be had without a diploma.
Looking back, I needed to leave home to grow up, but wished later that I could have stayed at home and saved money.
Roomates in college generally suck. Be glas you don't have someone waking you up, mesing with your stuff, and generally pissing you off.
So, suck it up. Live at home as long as you can (save the money). Study hard. I need you to support me when I get old. :)
Its cheaper but I seriously don't think I'm gonna grow up without moving out.
If your roommate doesn't suck does that mean that you are the sucky roommate?
see my post above, but be reminded that this ^^^will hamper your transition... because you'll spend your time commuting and living with your parents while your peers are spending their time entertaining each other in various forms.
everyone I knew in college who lived with their parents never got the social part of college, only the academic part. They'd come to class, turn in their work, then drive home. it's of utmost importance that you rent an apartment with some classmates you meet or check in to the dorm.
I don't buy into the "college experience" AT ALL. You make it sound like a bad thing to go get your grades and go home. I was able to set some money aside while I worked and lived at home the first couple years of college. Now I'm continuing to work and go to school while supporting myself. If you've got any real social skills, you don't have to live in a dorm and get tanked every weekend to get your social fill.
Show up for class. Do the work. Find a hobby (besides partying) to keep yourself balanced and enjoy the regular exposure to quality women. :supergrin:
Clyde in CO 08-26-2008, 00:55 I'm saving to go back right now, and when I have enough I'm going out of state.
Away from family, away from friends, enough in the bank to live on so I can focus on school and get it done.
Well today was my first day of college and I'm already thinking of leaving. It just doesn't feel right. It's kinda depressing to me. The work hasn't even really started yet; I don't know how I'll feel when it does start. I don't know it feels like I'm living in a dream world or something. All my friends going to school out of town and yeah it just doesn't feel right. I don't think college is the same as it once was. I hope its just that I'm not used to the change and that I'll get over it in a short time. Yes, I'm a little younger than I may have represented myself to be before. Sorry if this appears disorganized and messy.
I should have elaborated further. I am going to college in my hometown and living at home and I think that is where most of the problems are coming from strangely enough. I'm getting out of town next semester and I actually think it will cure a lot of these feelings if they are not over by then.
By the way, if I could transfer all of my scholarships and federal grant money to one of the many people that "would kill for the same opportunity" I would because they need it more than I do. I'm not trying to get rich anyway.
Don't quit! I started college a year ago (I just started my second year yesterday actually) and I was in bascally the same situation. All of my friends went to schools at least 5 hours away, I went (because they actually had the best dept. in my field) to a school that's only 20min away.
My first year I stayed on-campus, to see what it was like being on my own. Close enough I could still come home sometimes if I felt like it.
I had the same thoughts...after my first day of classes I felt horrible and depressed, thinking of my friends and how life 'used to be' before college.
I had the same thoughts of giving up and either enlisting or getting a job. I thought it over good and realized that it would have been a big mistake to quit.
This year I'm living at home for a change (plus now I can have a gun in my room, unlike at school :supergrin: ) so there are advantages to both.
When my brother started college 4 years ago (5 hours away) he had a hard time adjusting...took him almost 2 weeks...but now he loves it down there. Myself, took longer to adjust...I had good moments and bad moments (of my thinking at the time) for a few weeks.
DON'T GIVE UP!
After you get adjusted and used to college, you'll never want to go back to the way things 'used to be' :)
Show up for class. Do the work. Find a hobby (besides partying) to keep yourself balanced...
That's exactly what I've been doing...sure I meet people in class that I get along with and talk to...but really one thing that really helped me get though it my first year, was guns, my truck, facebook, and Call of Duty 4.
Find something to occupy you (that isn't distructive behavior) to keep your mind from doing too much 'thinking' about the change from HS to college.and enjoy the regular exposure to quality women. :supergrin:
Yeah that's a great part about college too! :supergrin:
chuckman 08-26-2008, 06:00 EVERYONE feels the same way, when they first start college... EVERYONE.
It's the first time you're away from home.. you have to let your roots put down. Once you make a few friends and you get comfortable with the freedom and the classes... you'll laugh at your present fears.
you'll have the time of your life.. just relax and take it all in stride.
I loved college...absolutely loved it. Too much, in fact, where I had to set the kegs aside and really study to ensure getting out. I even enjoyed class (but not the studying and tests). I understand the perils of going to college in one's hometown...there is a small college was I grew up (UNC Chapel Hill), but chose to go to another state university a few hours away. All that said, college is over-rated, and not everyone needs to go to college. I have two undregrad degrees and have been in grad school at Duke, and still make less money and have a more rigid schedule than my plumber. If I had to do it all over, I would have considered tech school/community college for electrician or plumbing. The military is a great choice, too. Learn a trade while they pay for college, see the world, do some interesting things.
NYC Drew 08-26-2008, 06:52 k, since a couple I will be the prick.
It could be PMS. Give it two weeks, and see if you feel the same way after your period.
Identity with-held.
:cool:
:tongueout::supergrin:
Andy, mi amigo.
The time has come to learn some discipline and mental toughness.
Not intending to insult, but the rest of your life is going to be things you don't feel like doing, tasks you will only give lukewarm effort to and thus, goals that will never be reached.
Life is hard. Life is harder for those who don't have the gumption to grab it by the throat and shake the rewards out of it.
It is a rare man (or wimmins) these days who does what they say they'll do. Be one of the rare, not one of the common.
It sounds like you committed to at least one semester. Honor that. Excel even if it's boring or you don't like the instructor. Anyone can find a reason to quit. God knows I've done it ... a lot.
There's knowledge to be had and future to be enjoyed. It all starts today.
Good luck, mi amigo. :thumbsup:
fnfalman 08-26-2008, 07:40 There is nothing wrong with not wanting to have a college education. All this crap about "you gotta go to college or your life is down the toilet" is simply that - crap.
If you don't think that college is for you then go do something else. Get a headstart in whatever that you think is appropriate for your life instead of wasting time and money doing something that amounts to nought for you.
I should have elaborated further. I am going to college in my hometown and living at home and I think that is where most of the problems are coming from strangely enough. I'm getting out of town next semester and I actually think it will cure a lot of these feelings if they are not over by then.
This is indeed your problem.
IMO, getting out of the house is probably 75% the value of the college experience. (Also why joining the military is also so valuable from a personal-growth standpoint.) I attended the Wisconsin University system while living at home and it was a dry, cold, dull, and valueless experience for me. And I will feel for the rest of my life it was a major mistake to try it that way.
Tough out this semester, then go to the other school ASAP.
chuckman 08-26-2008, 09:06 Re: the "college experience." If you live at home and go to school you will do well, get good grades, yadda yadda yadda. Living at home, though, can be a distraction, and detract from the experience. College is what you make it, but the experience is real and important...the athletics, clubs, hobbies, culture, etc. Like the military, I can say I had some good experiences in college I would never have had otherwise (and few of them had anything to do with "getting tanked every weekend").
I am doing EXACTLY the same thing you are. My friends are in school out of town. I'm a junior, working and going to school locally. I did one year at GA. Southern, and my grades were horrible. I spent the whole semester drinking and going to football games and didn't study at all. I transferred back home, changed my major,plowed ahead studying and started making big achievements in the classroom. My only advice has already been said. Stick to it, study hard, take pride in your work. It will be what you make of it.
Maelstrom 08-26-2008, 09:35 Sounds like you have a good idea of what to do. Stick out the semester and then transfer. Get out of the house, it's time for some personal growth.
Personal growth is hard and uncomfortable (like a college futon) but then you have additional skills in interacting with people (soft skills) as well as some knowledge that can be used to perform a service that someone will pay you for (hard skills).
One semester is nothing.
College is great.
Unfortunately you probably won't realize just how great it is until you are out.
I don't buy into the "college experience" AT ALL. You make it sound like a bad thing to go get your grades and go home. I was able to set some money aside while I worked and lived at home the first couple years of college. Now I'm continuing to work and go to school while supporting myself. If you've got any real social skills, you don't have to live in a dorm and get tanked every weekend to get your social fill.
Show up for class. Do the work. Find a hobby (besides partying) to keep yourself balanced and enjoy the regular exposure to quality women. :supergrin:
don't be silly
TangoUniform 08-26-2008, 09:45 I am going to college in my hometown and living at home and I think that is where most of the problems are coming from strangely enough. I'm getting out of town next semester and I actually think it will cure a lot of these feelings if they are not over by then.
This is just my own experience, but I really think you're onto something with this thought of yours.
I went only 400 miles away to college, so it was still pretty easy to get home if need be, but it was far enough way to be truly "away."
There was one summer that I took some classes at the local college and I found it to be miserable living at home and commuting to class.
A lot of the fun of college is everything that happens outside of class, the friendships you make, and all that jazz.
One suggestion I would make that might help you is to look into living on campus and not at home. If you're kinda stuck where you are at this school in your hometown, simply living on campus may be exactly what you need to help you get into the groove of college and college life. ... And if you do this, don't go home every weekend... Treat it as truly being "away" at college.
Best of luck.. stick it out and finish. I'd venture to say that most people who quit college never go back and finish. For some folks, they make it just fine without college, but I've the vast majority of stories I hear from people who quit is, "I wish I'd finished my degree.." and "I wish I could go back and finish"... The further you get into life, the more difficult it is to go back to school, IMO.
TangoUniform 08-26-2008, 09:47 Sounds like you have a good idea of what to do. Stick out the semester and then transfer. Get out of the house, it's time for some personal growth.
Personal growth is hard and uncomfortable (like a college futon) but then you have additional skills in interacting with people (soft skills) as well as some knowledge that can be used to perform a service that someone will pay you for (hard skills).
One semester is nothing.
College is great.
Unfortunately you probably won't realize just how great it is until you are out.
I agree.
If I could get stuck in a time warp, I would love nothing more than to be 20 years old and stuck in my 3rd year of school. I think that year was just the most fun of my life, and I wasn't getting drunk every weekend. It was just a good time.
JJohnson 08-26-2008, 09:53 see my post above, but be reminded that this ^^^will hamper your transition... because you'll spend your time commuting and living with your parents while your peers are spending their time entertaining each other in various forms.
everyone I knew in college who lived with their parents never got the social part of college, only the academic part. They'd come to class, turn in their work, then drive home. it's of utmost importance that you rent an apartment with some classmates you meet or check in to the dorm.
Best advice so far. Get out of the house. I didn't and never really experienced college other than as an extension of High School. You'll forget about your friends soon enough, trust me on that. I just had my 20th HS reunion lat year. I spent the time talking to the people I kept in touch with and blew off the rest.
marcernst 08-26-2008, 09:55 wow oh what an attitude!
college is expensive as heck anymore
i have one kid who wasted his first 2 years in school and got kicked out....and is now paying for his poor actions & decisions.
i have another kid who is grateful we are sending her to college and is trying to achieve her best there.
maybe you don't have what it takes...?
windplex 08-26-2008, 10:04 There is or can be value in living on campus. A time to spread your wings in a very safe enviroment and become more independent.
If you are far away from home growth is faster -- you cannot simply go home for weekends and holidays and so you are on your own longer and left to grow into that.
Having said that you can also grow and get a great deal out of college when commuting.
And there are so many pitfalls on a college campus; someone is always "partying" and you could get caught up in that waste of time (and college money). Dorms are loud and roudy kids will always be distracting.
One regret I have is NOT taking advantage of the aviation club. My school had 6 planes and some were dual engine. Obtaining flying licenses was dirt cheap and I didnt go for it. You can still join clubs while living at home -- stay on campus and study till the club meets and drive home later in the night.
One tip that applies no matter whether you commute or not is as soon as you can obtain work in your field of study. This will do three things: 1) help you understand what you are getting into and learn if it is a good fit or what aspect of the area is your best fit; 2) give you confidence you are applying for jobs in he field you know you want to pursue and 3) it is invaluable when looking for a job after graduation -- will set you apart from 98% of others with your degree. same advice I give my kids.
You can usually find an office or person tasked with "internships" at the college. Visit that office very frequently to be there asap after the company inquires about an internship candidate. I parked so that I walked past the internship office twice a day and stopped in every day it was open; I got 2 out of 3 internships available while there. Got another through people I knew.
If I could get stuck in a time warp, I would love nothing more than to be 20 years old and stuck in my 3rd year of school. I think that year was just the most fun of my life, and I wasn't getting drunk every weekend. It was just a good time.
There are times, I would love nothing more than to be 21 years old, in college.
I was getting laid multiple times a week, drunk off my * on a regular basis, living with a girl in a frat house....god I had a tiger by the tail and didn't realise that the other end had teath.
This is why I worked my butt off to get my girls to live at college. My wife was all for the "start at a local community college, see if you like it, save some money, maybe take a year off and get a job" plan. No way. Our oldest was so much more independent and confident after 4 years of living 650 miles from home. It took her a while to get her feet under her, but she now has a professional job in her degree field and should break even soon on the cost of college. I don't think she would have the confidence to have gone out and done it if she had lived at home, I think she would have settled on something safe and comfortable. Our youngest is more introverted. She lives at school but is only an hour away and comes home a weekend or 2 a month. It is still good for her to be out on her own, I can see the difference.
Korey5640 08-26-2008, 21:11 Dude, full time jobs aren't all they're cracked up to be. Ask me...I work a full time career and go to college at a rate that is almost considered full time. I am privileged that I was able to get into a GREAT job right out of high school that is full time, the city/type of work I want to do the rest of my like, great pay, and close to full tuition reimbursement. Also that for now my parents are allowing me to live rent free at home.
As happy as I am to have such a great opportunity, be glad that ALL you have to do is college.
DaleGribble 08-26-2008, 21:49 Dude, stay in school, chase the hot chicks and get as much as you can now and study in between girlfriends and drinking.
You're currently living the best years of your life, you just don't realize it yet.
sputnik767 08-26-2008, 21:49 Well today was my first day of college and I'm already thinking of leaving. It just doesn't feel right. It's kinda depressing to me. The work hasn't even really started yet; I don't know how I'll feel when it does start. I don't know it feels like I'm living in a dream world or something. All my friends going to school out of town and yeah it just doesn't feel right. I don't think college is the same as it once was. I hope its just that I'm not used to the change and that I'll get over it in a short time. Yes, I'm a little younger than I may have represented myself to be before. Sorry if this appears disorganized and messy.
I should have elaborated further. I am going to college in my hometown and living at home and I think that is where most of the problems are coming from strangely enough. I'm getting out of town next semester and I actually think it will cure a lot of these feelings if they are not over by then.
By the way, if I could transfer all of my scholarships and federal grant money to one of the many people that "would kill for the same opportunity" I would because they need it more than I do. I'm not trying to get rich anyway.
I went through 4 years of undergrad full-time, living at home and working part-time, 2 jobs at one point (one was from midnight to 8 am, and I had class at 9) to pay tuition, car payment, insurance, cell phone, etc. My parents provided housing, food, and other support. I graduated on time, with no student loan debt. I am now 23, and moved away to go to grad school full-time, and am also working about 35-40 hours a week in a cancer research lab on campus, a job I could not have gotten without my undergrad education. I rent my own apartment with no roommates. Otherwise, I could be working in McDonalds, Wal-Mart, or some factory job, with no real job security. I like where I am now, and it took an undergraduate education to get there. I will tell you this, whatever you decide to to is up to you, but if I was your father, i would tell you to suck it up, study hard, and get your degree in whatever it is you are aiming for. You don't have it that hard.
Razoreye 08-26-2008, 22:09 I'm just posting because I know this thread will go on a while. Gotta read it first. :supergrin:
If you think that's depressing try being a 3 year senior.:tongueout:
Please don't leave, Andy. It is shown over and over that it will pay off for you in so many ways... some ways that are not even obvious. If you need to, move onto campus and get out of the house. But don't give up. You will never look back and regret getting your degree. Never. You will likely always look back and regret not getting it if you make this decision.
Razoreye 08-26-2008, 22:39 You'll like it after a semester, I guarantee. Maybe you need to get out of the house but it is wayyyy easier getting support and a free ticket, less on your mind. Take advantage of that fact.
Join a frat, I'm kind of regretting not doing so now but I'm not going to hang on that. Enjoy the parties but only once in a while. It can really affect your grades (one reason I'll be a 3 yr senior.) I'm buckling down cause I want to get the **** out of college but I certainly don't regret it. The first semester was tough but you'll soon forget all about it.
To top it off you have financial support. I have a ton of debt already so I'll be up **** creek on graduation. I have a plan for that but it sucks having that hanging over your head constantly. Especially when you could have had a scholarship. Bad financials are stressful and can hurt so you have one more advantage over me. Use it, don't blow it. I've wasted enough money and I'm a fool for it but I've learned from it.
windplex 08-26-2008, 23:32 I truly do not wish to return to the past as in going back to college. Too much family life that would be skipped now.
However with two kids in college it does wake interest in checking out the cool new classes and subjects -- auditing.
Glad my kids are enjoying them and taking advantage of extracurricular activities (that dont involve altered states).
the iceman 08-26-2008, 23:44 I was the same way when I started through when I was finished. I just sucked it up though.
Good luck!
Go flag traffic for 13 hours in the same spot all day. I did that for about 2 years and went running back to school. I will now graduate in may with a criminology/criminal justice degree. I think getting out of town might be smart because some of your buddies are probably working right now and they have money right now and they are telling you about all the cool stuff they are buying. But in reality they are probably working jobs they absolutely hate and will remain in those jobs because they dont have the opportunity that you have. You may in fact graduate and be making the same amount of money as them or maybe less, but the difference is that you will love your job and they will still hate theirs. DONT BE A FOOL, STAY IN SCHOOL!!!
Wow, I can't believe I was being such a little ***** last Monday. I'm not dropping out. My major will be Justice Studies when I transfer and cops can't act like *******.
Thanks for the encouragement everyone.
Deradius 08-31-2008, 21:34 Wow, I can't believe I was being such a little ***** last Monday. I'm not dropping out. My major will be Justice Studies when I transfer and cops can't act like *******.
Thanks for the encouragement everyone.
Don't worry about it. It happens to everyone.
The next time it happens, just remember that you did get through it.
Best of luck!
Turtle13 08-31-2008, 21:40 yeah school sucks, but when i go to work everyday and see people in their 40's and 50's getting the same little pay check as me now at 21, it makes me work harder in school.
+1000
Get your head on and decide what you want to do and get school finished. When you're 40 or 50 you'll be looking forward to a good life when you're retired instead of working til your body breaks for next to nothing.
costanza187 08-31-2008, 22:29 Stay in school! You get to party like this.
http://www.joblo.com/newsimages1/togaschool.jpg
windplex 08-31-2008, 23:17 Wow, I can't believe I was being such a little ***** last Monday. I'm not dropping out. My major will be Justice Studies when I transfer and cops can't act like *******.
Thanks for the encouragement everyone.
glad to hear you got settled in. thats good. all the best!
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