The transition from high school to college alone can be hard on a student, but what if the transition includes going from a small, private high school to a public college. The absence of faith in the curriculum can be a major shock for many; however, many believe that not being required to study faith actually strengthens it because then it is a matter of actually wanting to grow in your faith opposed to being forced to. As a student who went to public school all the way through eighth grade, the transition to a public college doesn’t seem as shocking or different to me. However, many students who have attended private school since kindergarten say that this transition is going to take some getting used to for them. I asked Totino-Grace students who will be attending a public institute next year what their thoughts on this change are.

Autumn Johnson (University of Minnesota, Morris): I’m going to a relatively small public college so I don’t think the transition is as apparent for me. I personally think the transition from our small private high school to a public college will better prepare us for the real world because we’re use to our faculty at TG helping students with everything, but in college we will be out on our own, so a public university will be a nice in-between for high school and adult life.

Katy Hiestand (University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire): I think that since I chose a smaller school that the transition will be a little easier for me. There will be less focus put on religion, but there are a lot of ways even in a public college to pursue my faith if I wanted to.

Donny Krieger (University of Minnesota, Twin Cities): I am excited about it. While I had a good experience at TG and with private education in general, I’m looking forward to a change and all of the new experiences at a much bigger school.

Tina Schaffhausen (Iowa State University): I’m so excited cause I’m tired of religion classes…

Mandy Noren (University of Minnesota, Twin Cities): I think it’s going to be a great opportunity to be a little fish in a big pond. The U of M has so many great programs and opportunities and I’m excited to see where it can take me.

Delaney Finn (Iowa State University): I think the biggest transition for me will be the school size.  I have gone to catholic school since first grade, always having small classes.  A big university will be an adjustment at first, but one I am excited for. Maybe more people will bring less drama?!

Nicole Miller (North Dakota State University): It’s going to be weird going from 13 years at a private school to a public college. I’m really excited for it though because it’s something new and I’m excited for the experience!

Stefanie Draper (Virginia Tech): For me, I personally don’t think anything for me is going to change in this transition. I’m not really phased by the large campus size really and I’m actually looking forward to being around so many new people!