Potomac Falls alumnus and UVA first-year, Natalie Wike, gives a close-up on the shift to college from high school.

To be in college is something only a few months off for some, but years for others. Depending on which group you fall into, you may not be thinking about college that much. However, it can have a profound impact on your future, so it can be helpful to begin planning for.

What better way is there to learn more about college life than asking a college student themself? Potomac Falls alumnus and current freshman at the University of Virginia, Natalie Wike, has been on Charlottesville grounds for a month now. In this time, she has gathered her bearings while also reflecting on the aspects of high school she misses most.

Wike’s journey to UVA began where it does for most high school seniors–the daunting application process. “The application process was a little stressful because of how close deadlines are to each other, but rewarding once finished because it felt like not only an application but my hard work throughout all my years in school,” said Wike. 

Wike applied early action to UVA, meaning she had to finish and turn in her application earlier, but also got to find out whether she got in at an earlier date. “When I got into UVA, I felt very excited, and it separated itself from the others by having a uniquely positive environment,” said Wike. “I heard good things from people who had gone and enjoyed the experience I had when I visited before being accepted.”

Of course, going off to college came with some drawbacks for Wike, a predominant one being missing the high school experience. “I miss how close everything was to each other: the teachers, students, cafeteria,” said Wike. “I also miss knowing everyone.” For Wike, the web of life in an intimate high school environment was much more strung together than that of a vast college campus.

College is known for its enjoyable and memorable experiences. For Wike, some of these include “the increased amount of freetime, and how [she is] allowed to choose actual classes that interest [her], instead of needing boxes to be checked.” 

Supporting Wike’s viewpoint, on average high school students are in class 30 hours a week, compared to college students clocking in 12-16 hour weeks according to kings.edu. This astronomical decrease of 50% or more, contrasts the switch of freetime you have to yourself in college. This doesn’t mean college is necessarily easier, however, as readings, homework, and writing assignments take up a lot of time outside of class. 

Looking towards the future, Wike plans to further immerse herself in the collegiate realm by “taking more classes and topics that are interesting, while also increasing involvement in more clubs and different extracurricular activities.” 

Like most students, acclimating herself to a college environment took time for Wike. Preparing yourself for the rigors and changes of college while in high school and trying to make everyday your best will ensure an enjoyable college experience for most. Many high school seniors undergoing the application process may be under a lot of stress, however, Wike serves as a reminder that success can be found no matter where one goes.