Writing in College Isn't So Scary!

A Guide for Incoming College Freshmen

Introduction

Transitioning from high school to college is often a confusing, not-so-easy experience for students. As a freshman in college who graduated high school only a few months ago, I’ve been there. Luckily, I had caring and supportive professors and students to help make the transition easier for me. However, not everyone gets that going into college. This is especially true when it comes to writing, as the way that high schools teach writing differs from the way that colleges teach it. Remember that five-paragraph essay you learned to write? It's almost nonexistent in the college world, predominantly in college writing classes. That’s why I’d like to share four things that are useful for incoming college freshman to know and keep in mind when beginning their college writing experience.

The following four sections cover each of the four useful things for students to know regarding writing in college.

Sometimes, the process matters more than the product.

No one is born a writer, and no one writes perfect first drafts.


Fear of failure is one of the most stifling obstacles keeping students from reaching their fullest potential.

Students have access to resources for writing in college that they may not have had in high school.