Education
Course grades as direct indicators of how much a student has learned.
False
Grades are a summary measure of performance, not learning. They often fail to convey whether specific program learning outcomes were actually met. A student can receive an 'A' through rote memorization without gaining the long-term skills the degree intended to provide.
College can be affordable and even FREE.
True
Many high-end private and public universities waive tuition entirely for students whose families fall below specific income thresholds.
Most jobs require some post-secondary education
False
But it’s pretty close
47% of jobs require additional education
College is one Big Party
False
While parties and social events are popular places to meet people and make friends, they don’t define the college experience.
The reason you’re going to college is to get an education after all, and so that should be (and oftentimes is) the priority of every student.
Most students in college are commuters and do not live in dorms.
True
25 percent of all undergraduate students live with their parents
Dorm life is not the norm for most students, with only about 16 percent living on campuses.
The "four-year degree" is the standard benchmark for a college student.
False
Only about 1 in 5 students actually completes their degree in four years. Nationally, only about 40% of students graduate in six years.
Meal Plan is necessary for saving money
False
Most freshmen are required to buy a meal plan, and they often assume it is the most cost-effective way to eat. However, when you break down the math, some "premium" meal plans can cost as much as $10 to $15 per meal
Your major determines what you will do for the rest of your life.
False
Only about 27% of college graduates work in a field directly related to their major. Most employers prioritize transferable skills—like critical thinking, communication, and teamwork—over the specific subject on your diploma. It is estimated that graduates will change careers 5 to 7 times in their lifetime.
You must party to make friends.
False
Friends are primarily made through shared interests, study groups, clubs, and dorm communities.
The more extracurriculars, the better.
False
Focus on quality instead of quantity
Students should look to “go deep” in a few areas where they can really contribute instead of “going wide” across the board.
For professors, no response is a response—and it's usually 'no'.
False
In academia, non-responsiveness is frequently a result of high email volume, competing priorities, or simple oversight rather than a deliberate "no".
The tuition price listed on a college's website is exactly what you will pay.
False
On average, students at private colleges pay less than 60% of the published tuition after scholarships and grants are applied.
Most students work while they’re in college.
True
Recent data indicates that the majority of college students in the U.S. work while enrolled, with estimates generally ranging from 60% to 70% of the undergraduate population.
You don’t need money to be entertained on campus.
True.
Between free events, student discounts, and campus resources, broke students still manage to have fun.
Missing one class won’t affect anything.
False
The "Hidden" Syllabus; Participation Points; The Relationship Deficit
Applying as an undecided major makes you look unfocused or less prepared than students who have a plan.
False
For most colleges, being undecided is perfectly acceptable and does not negatively impact your admission chances. Admissions officers understand that many 17- and 18-year-olds are still exploring their interests.
Many students also change their major during college.
Moving off-campus after freshman year is a guaranteed way to save money
False
Hidden costs like security deposits, monthly utilities (Wi-Fi, water, electricity), furniture, and the cost of commuting.
GPA is not an important factor in getting hired after graduation.
True
After your first job, almost no employer will ever ask for your GPA again. Even for your first job, many companies—including tech giants like Google—have stated that GPA is a poor predictor of job performance. They care more about your portfolio, projects, and ability to collaborate.
Entertainment = distraction from ‘real’ college life.
False
Structured entertainment and social activities foster a sense of belonging
Engaging in extracurriculars like sports, arts, or clubs helps students develop critical life skills such as time management, leadership, and emotional resilience, which directly translate to better academic performance and higher GPAs
College students are always stressed
True
college can be a little overwhelming, but help is readily available. Professors and faculty are often very understanding regarding extensions and absences for valid reasons.
The best way to find out about a major is to take courses in it.
False
Some introductory courses will not give you a good idea of what the major is like. You can often learn a lot about a course and a major just by looking through the required textbooks, reading the course syllabus, and sitting in on a few class meetings before deciding whether or not to schedule a course in that major. Your academic adviser can also help you find ways to explore majors and minors
Textbooks are not Fixed Cost
True
By using Rental Services, buying older editions, or utilizing the university library’s "Course Reserves," students can often reduce this cost to nearly zero.
Attending a school with a famous alumni network will automatically open doors for you
False
An alumni network is a passive resource that requires significant effort to activate. You must proactively reach out through platforms
Random weeknights events end up being more fun than weekends.
Yes
When you host an event on the weekend, it’s often competing with other major events, such as trade shows, conferences, and social gatherings. Weekday events generally face less competition for attention, allowing your event to stand out and attract a larger share of your target audience. With fewer competing events, you can maximize your marketing efforts and increase your event's visibility.
College students have lighter class schedules compared to high schools since they are free to choose their own classes
True
College students spend significantly less time in a physical classroom than high school students. But there are not that much free time due to the shift from in-class time to independent work of class materials