Navigating the Transition to College: Insights and Advice for Students and Schools

Title: Navigating the Transition to College: Insights and Advice for Students and Schools

With this episode of Ed-Tabulous, we're diving into a topic that's near and dear to many hearts: the transition from high school to college. It's a time filled with excitement, anticipation, and maybe a hint of nervousness. But fear not! We've got some incredible insights and advice to help you sail smoothly through this period of change.

Recently, we had a thought-provoking conversation about this very topic with Dr. Dara Sakolsky, who earned an MD as well as a PHD in pharmacology from Temple University. She is an associate professor at the University of Pittsburgh school of medicine who works with teens and young adults with depression and anxiety. She is a board certified child and adolescent psychiatrist who is the associate director of Services for Teens at Risk at Western Psychiatric hospital, and, most importantly, she is one of Sabrina’s older sisters. Fortunately for us, she is also an expert in student transition counseling and shared some invaluable wisdom on how students and schools can best support this transition.

Dara emphasized the importance of recognizing that there's no one-size-fits-all approach to college. Whether it's a four-year university, community college, or starting at a regional campus, finding the right fit is key. And it's not just about academics – factors like organizational skills and independence play a huge role too.

But here's the kicker: Dara suggests that the groundwork for this transition begins much earlier than we might think – as early as middle school! Developing essential life skills like time management and organizational abilities lays a strong foundation for success in college.

One of the eye-opening revelations from our chat was the difference in accommodation policies between high school and college. While high schools may offer accommodations like modified curriculum, colleges adhere to strict guidelines governed by the Americans with Disabilities Act. This means that students need to reassess their needs and accommodations as they transition to college.

Additionally, Dara shed light on some lesser-known accommodations, such as priority scheduling, that can significantly impact a student's college experience. These accommodations, though not always explicitly listed, can make a world of difference in a student's academic journey.

To further support students and schools in this transition, Dara recommended some fantastic resources:

1. American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry: A comprehensive resource center covering various aspects of transitioning into adulthood.

2. Jed Foundation: A valuable resource for students and parents navigating the college transition.

3. National Technical Assistance Center on Transition: Offers a toolkit for collaborative transition planning, involving stakeholders from schools to college offices.

As our conversation came to a close, we reflected on the importance of holistic support for students transitioning to college. By starting early, assessing individual needs, and leveraging available resources, we can ensure a smoother transition and set students up for success.

So, to all the seniors gearing up to embark on this exciting journey, know that you're not alone. With the right support and guidance, you'll soar to new heights in college and beyond!