As the semester goes by faster and faster every week, many students are in the midst of applying to four-year universities in order to continue their education, and for many, to gain the “college experience.” Many students, however, have a false perception of what that experience will be like.

When I was a senior in high school I had the brilliant notion to go to a school out of state, so that I could branch out into the world and spread my wings and all those excuses we 18-year-olds come up with to move into our own place and party. No one told me how hard it would actually be.

As much as going away to college is glorified, many obstacles stand in the way of students. One major problem that students have complained about is that it is so hard to get into classes that are needed to advance.

This is mainly caused by too many students needing the same classes. Several students are forced to take a very minimal amount of units and, because of these restraints, end up taking longer to complete their desired degree.

Many students who move away to school also find themselves in the position of being homesick. As much as you think you will not miss your home and having to answer to parents, you will. You find that food does not magically appear in your refrigerator and that bills do not pay for themselves. You also learn that as mature you think you may be, it’s a hard transition, moving out on your own.

Many of my peers from high school also went away to their school of choice and returned a semester or two later. Many reasons were given for their return; however, the main consensus was that they were not ready.

Many others found themselves getting into too much drinking and drugs, and forgetting the reason that they were there in the first place: to get an education.

I do not want to scare people from going away to college, because, though my first experience was not great, I know that when I transfer to a four year institution in the fall I will be better prepared mentallyand academically.

There are some things you can do to make the transition go smoothly.

One is to have as many general education classes under your belt so that when you try and get classes at your four-year college you will not be competing for a spot that thousands of other studentsneed, too. You will be able to get into more classes if they are more specific to your major.

Another piece of advice is to be realistic. If you are thinking of living on your own away from home, think about your limitations and financial responsibilities and find a school that meets all of your needs.

The transfer and career center at Ventura College welcomes students, but does not guarantee them a working computer. (Joe Woods)