College Myths Debunked

Preparing for college life is a very important time in any student’s life. Of course this is also a stressful time. How many times have you sought advice from friends and family that have “been there and done that,” only to be told information that makes your stress level even higher? The good news is that many college myths can easily be debunked. Below are some of the most common myths out there and what the real deal is.

Myth #1: You Have to Choose a Major Before Applying

If that were really true, the enrollment rates at colleges and universities would be at an all-time low. There is no rule that says a major has to be declared by college bound students prior to applying for admission. While it is a good idea to already know what you want to get your degree in, you can still apply to the colleges of your choice while trying to figure out your career path. The first year or two is filled with General Education courses anyway so you’ll have some time to work things out until you’re ready.

Myth #2: Online Colleges Are An “Easy Out”

Not true. If you’re hoping to “get by” with enrolling in an online school so you’ll be able to take the easy route towards getting your degree, you’ll be severely disappointed. Although online colleges and universities are convenient, many of these virtual educational institutions have rigorous degree programs. Enrolling in such classes requires dedication and an online presence, whether it is in a forum setting or other virtual classroom environment.

Myth #3: It is Better to Get a Degree From a Prestigious College Than a Lesser Known One

Being admitted to an Ivy League school is any student’s (and parent’s) dream but what matters more than the name of college is the strength of its degree program and other academic merits. Expand your choices to include lesser known schools as well. The more you apply to, the greater your chances are of finding the perfect degree program.

Myth #4: College is Great Because You Can Take Easy Classes

Simply skating by with easy courses doesn’t contribute positively to your overall educational experience. These institutions serve the purpose of offering a challenging environment where students can better themselves as well as learn skills needed to pursue their dream career. Take advantage of this experience for what its worth instead of taking it for granted.

Myth #5: College Tours Aren’t Important, As Long As You Get Accepted

The last thing any student wants is to be accepted to a college, attend, and realize they hate it. Not all colleges and universities are the same. College tours allow students to check out the campus, lifestyle, student body, quality of the dorms and learn more about the school itself. Seeing everything with your own eyes before applying is a surefire way to decide whether a particular college or university is really the right fit for your needs.

The Bottom Line

Before you get an anxiety attack based on what you’ve heard from others, do some research and learn the truth for yourself. College myths will always be around but as long as you stick to the facts, you’ll be able to focus on choosing the right school and preparing for this next phase in your life.

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