Taking college courses while you’re still in high school has many benefits. You get a jump start on college credits, you save money and you can explore programs of study that interest you. However, there are some significant differences between college and high school classes. Being aware of these differences can help you succeed in college!
On the first day of class (in person or online in Canvas), you’ll receive a syllabus summarizing course content, deadlines, grading and attendance policies. Review the requirements carefully. If you’re not confident you can complete the course, you only have a few days to drop the class in your MyAACC portal or with the records office so it’s removed from your transcript.
Your professors want to hear from you! Introduce yourself the first week of class, visit during office hours and email often (office hours and email are in the syllabus). It’s up to you to contact your instructor if you’re going to miss a class, when an emergency arises or if you need help. Remember to use your AACC email or Canvas to message professors since they can’t use your personal email.
Missing a test or assignment usually results in a grade of zero. Check the syllabus for your professor’s late policy. If you plan to ask your professor for an extension, do so before the due date.
Although common in high school, minimum grades for good faith effort, redo’s and test corrections aren’t offered in college. Work hard so you can earn the grade you want!
In college, absences for any reason can affect your grade and aren’t classified as “excused” or not. Consult your syllabus for your professor’s attendance policy.
AACC’s calendar is different from your high school calendar for holidays, breaks, snow days and semester start/end dates. It’s important to check both calendars!
Successful students will spend more time outside of class studying and doing coursework than they spend in class. Plan for six to nine hours per week of study or homework time for each class.
Your final grade in a college course will be based largely on exams, papers and projects. Tests are usually less frequent and cover more material. Completing homework, reading your textbook, reviewing class notes and practicing using study tools are critical for test preparation!
College classes and grades remain on your transcript forever and can have positive or negative future impacts. Poor grades or excessive withdrawals can affect continued ECAP funding approvals, future college financial aid eligibility and admission to competitive programs. Put in the work, earn good grades and take care of your transcript!
If you’re struggling in a course, reach out to your advisor and/or instructor to discuss your options. They can help you get the extra support you need or may recommend withdrawing. If you withdraw before the deadline, you’ll receive a grade of W which is not averaged into your GPA and protects your transcript from a failing grade.
Note: ‘drop’ and ‘withdrawal’ are not the same.
AACC supports its students with resources like tutoring, the Writing Center, time management workshops and personal counseling – all at no cost to you! Visit our Resources for Students page to learn more.
High school IEP and 504 plans do not extend to AACC college classes. Students who wish to request accommodations for AACC courses must follow AACC’s Disability Support Services (DSS) procedures listed on their webpage. Plan to meet with DSS as early as possible to ensure a successful start to your semester at AACC.