I had many friends in college who had attended public school. Most of them had a much harder time adjusting to college life than I did. My dh, who had attended public school all his life, was thrilled when he got a C on his first exam (”I didn’t fail!”). My best friend rebelled, dated young men her parents hated, and eventually dropped out. My first roommate struggled with friendships for several years, though she eventually got things figured out and I believe graduated reasonably happy.

I respectfully disagree with Dr. Laura on this point, and agree with Dana. The adjustments homeschoolers have to make are, in many cases (though certainly not all), far more superficial than the deeper adjustments required of students who have learned to “skate through” what public school requires.

And Jeanne, thank you for your comment. I think college is better. You have more choice and more responsibility. Of course, that is why so many fail to begin with. I think the biggest thing we could do to prepare students for college is let them grow up a little more before expecting them to enter rather than just piling more tests on them in high school.

Dana - Never drink with the Germans. I know of which I speak.

We were at number nine when I left.

(OK, so I really had nothing to do with partying while I was in college. I spent too much time hanging out in the German library in Wescoe or at work.)

However, in my defense, it was the school closest to home. I chose it for that reason!

I like to think that home educators are more likely to help their kids understand how to invest in their own futures, rather than just “You must go to college” because it is the default position.

You know, I have never really understood the desire for a college to be known as the best ‘party’ college. That’s a really expensive party.