The transition from high school to university is hard for anyone, but for us girls who attended a Catholic high school, first year felt like a whole new world. Here are seven of the struggles I faced during my first few months at the University of Guelph after spending my entire childhood in the Catholic school system.
1. Not knowing how to dress yourself
After four (or more!) years of wearing the same uniform every single day, your closet at the beginning of first year was likely made up of one pair of jeans and a few t-shirts. And sweatpants. Lots of sweatpants.
2. The amount of electives to choose from were overwhelming
When religion class is no longer mandatory, there’s a whole new world of academia to explore – even if it’s just SOC 1100.
3. Being shocked the first time you went to Trapper’s with your classmates
It’s safe to say there’s no room for the Holy Spirit in this bar.
4. Feeling slightly disappointed when mass was not part of your schedule
Not because we enjoyed going, but because mass was the day we all skipped class to go to McDonald’s. Now, we just use the free time to sleep in – or get a waffle for breakfast from Mountain caf.
5. Wondering why we didn’t say a group prayer before an exam
Maybe that’s why none of us passed CHEM 1040 the first time.
6. The number of people in our classes were insane
Rozanski 104 would seem intimidating to any high school student, but what about when you experienced Kindergarten to Grade 12 with the same group of 20 students?
7. The diversity was a welcomed change
A very, very, welcomed change.
Did you go to a Catholic high school? Comment below some of the struggles you faced when you came to university!