Transition to College: 
When Executive Function demands may exceed skills for the first time 

The transition from high school to college is dramatic. Many will be losing the parental supervision that has provided supports and structure for them. For the first time, they will need to manage schoolwork, social life and the day to day responsibilities such as laundry, meals and sleep without anyone guiding their choices. The juggling of work and play can be overwhelming. 
 
For some, this new complicated world can shed light on Executive Function challenges or perhaps ADHD, which were managed well throughout high school. Until the demands exceed skills, ADHD and Executive Function weaknesses can be well-managed and pose no problems. As demands increase, such as the multiple new responsibilities and distractions of college, Executive Function skills may not be strong enough to meet these challenges. 
 
It can be beneficial to become familiar with the differences between high school and life in college. Simply by taking the mystery out of the experience and putting some strategies and supports in place before they are needed can make the difference between a calm versus stressful first year.

Click here for a comparison of high school and college
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