One of the most exciting parts about becoming part of the Austin High School community is its role as the origin for a vast network of human influence. Austin High alumni expand far across the country and beyond, taking on new, exciting challenges, and placing the Austin High education in a broader context. The same seniors who once paced the halls and sat in the very plastic chairs as current students now face entirely novel environments. Austin High students attend colleges from coast to coast. They study a variety of subjects and are exposed to a rich diversity of communities that contrast with the familiar city of Austin. We are proud of our impressive network of alumni and excited to see all that they achieve.
One such graduate of Austin High is the Maroon Newspaper’s very own Jorie Midwood, who shares advice on her transition from high school to college. Jorie graduated last year, moved to California, and currently attends the University of California, Santa Barbara. One such challenge Jorie came across when transitioning into a new university was the responsibilities college requires her to take on. Jorie explains that expectations are higher in college. When in high school, there is some “leniency” with assignments, projects, and homework; in college, this flexibility is absent. Because of this, she has learned to effectively balance her schedule in order to take on the demanding workload of college, while still living a fun social life.
In college, “you almost have a choice to study,” Jorie continues. While a support system of family, friends, and counselors pushing students to complete their work may be an option in high school, college is much more autonomous. Students must make their own time to prioritize learning and studying, building it into their schedule rather than letting work pile up. These responsibilities are more important than in high school to many students.
According to Midwood, University classes are much more in-depth and interesting than high school classes. Having more autonomy to build a schedule around one’s own interests can help college be more exciting, and provide a greater initiative to learn and have an interest in academics. The ACC English classes offered at Austin High were good preparation for the more intensive work university-level course rigor demands.
On the social side, Jorie suggests joining a fraternity or sorority in order to forge stronger social connections with peers. Being involved with the school community and reaching out to new people can enhance the college experience.
Ultimately, the transition from high school to life after is a different experience for everyone. Jorie experienced homesickness at first, but was able to overcome these feelings quickly, ultimately deciding that leaving Austin and experiencing life in a new part of the world was the best decision for her.
While current seniors handle the stress of college decision season, in the words of Jorie Midwood, “it will work out.” For Midwood, the applications were the most difficult part of the process, and she was equipped with the proper resources and preparatory knowledge to thrive in her college experience.
At Austin High, staff and teachers are committed to furthering the success of each and every student. Jorie Midwood would like to extend special shout outs to Ms. Cleaver, Dr. Purser, and Mr. Steele for believing in her and pushing her on to achieve success after high school.
