Over the past year, I have been enrolled in PSEO (Postsecondary Enrollment Options), taking courses at both my local community college and our state’s flagship university. Throughout my time in PSEO, I was exposed to an environment very different from what I was accustomed to: moving from high school hallways and classrooms where everything was repeated twice, to college courses where professors might spend only half a lecture introducing the entire class. This contrast is one that I, along with many other students, struggled to adapt to at first.
PSEO provides an excellent opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school. However, stepping into this environment poses a unique set of challenges. College classes run differently and require a major shift in approach. Fortunately, there are actionable ways to succeed and truly enjoy your PSEO studies—namely through goal-setting, strategic planning, and relationship-building.
Over the past week, I’ve had many conversations with my fellow PSEO students. Between their experiences and my own, one challenge stood out above the rest: integrating rigorous college assignments into an already hectic high school schedule. Here are three key strategies to help you navigate it:
1. Read the Syllabus Thoroughly
This single habit has had a massive positive impact on my performance. I’ve had professors hide extra credit opportunities inside the syllabus, gotten a head start on midterm projects, and gained a clear overall picture of expectations. Unlike high school, college courses rarely devote days to in-depth course introductions; professors typically glaze over test formats and policies in a few minutes. By reading the syllabus carefully, you catch all the critical details you would otherwise miss.
2. Track Every Single Due Date
Failing to organize your calendar will come back to bite you. A standard part-time PSEO schedule often includes multiple discussion posts, peer responses, exams, and major projects in a single week—most of which carry significant weight in your grade. It is easy to let an assignment slip through the cracks when balancing high school commitments, extracurriculars, and work. Writing down due dates, setting digital reminders, and regularly checking your calendar are essential steps to keep you from missing points.
3. Take Advantage of Office Hours
I will die on this hill: office hours are amazing. Your professor is the best starting point for questions about course material, grading criteria, or general advice. Make it a goal to visit your instructors during office hours within the first few weeks of the semester. Introduce yourself and start building relationships—these connections can lead to research opportunities and strong letters of recommendation down the line.
PSEO is an incredible opportunity, but it demands the maturity, adaptability, and time-management skills of a full-time college student. By starting with a strong understanding of your courses through the syllabus, systematically tracking your deadlines, and connecting with your professors, you will not only keep up with the pace of college—you’ll thrive in it.