Starting university marks a major turning point in a student’s life. The transition from the structured environment of high school to a more autonomous and demanding environment can be tricky. ESPOL is aware of these challenges and is committed to supporting its students through this delicate transition by putting in place a range of support measures.
The transition from high school to university can be difficult in a number of ways:
Increased workload: The pace intensifies and students must learn to manage a heavier workload by organising themselves independently and developing their research and analysis skills.
Greater autonomy: Students must learn to manage their time, take the initiative and take full responsibility for their learning path.
Change of environment: University is a bigger and less familiar world than high school. It can be difficult to find your way around, make new connections and adapt to a different culture and codes.
New evaluation methods: The evaluation methods differ from those used in high school, with more emphasis on personal work, projects and final exams.
ESPOL offers its students a range of resources and personalised assistance to facilitate their integration and success:
Methods courses and tutorials: sessions dedicated to learning work methods and time management are offered from the beginning of the year. Subject-specific tutorials also enable students to benefit from individualised support in the subjects in which they are having difficulty.
Academic advisors: These mentors listen to students’ needs and questions, offering advice and encouragement to help them overcome any obstacles they encounter.
Available administrative services: A reception and student services department is available to help students with the administrative procedures involved in enrolment, student life and the various services offered by the school.
An environment on a human scale: With its reasonable number of students, ESPOL provides an environment conducive to exchanges and the creation of links between students and teachers. This human dimension of the school facilitates integration and the feeling of belonging to a community.
Student associations: A rich and dynamic network of student associations enables students to get involved in projects and activities that correspond to their interests. These associations encourage students to meet others, help each other and develop themselves outside the classroom.