Overall, I enjoyed my first year of college, but there definitely were a few tips and tricks I wish I knew before getting into it. These 10 things could have saved me from a lot of time, effort, and stress.
You are never going to be the smartest in the room
GiphyI had the privilege of going to a High School that took pride in the esteemed academic achievement of the students. Almost everyone took 4+ AP classes and we were really blessed with amazing teachers (some of which were super nice and would give you an A+ if you were a true ass-kisser like myself). I was used to getting straight A's, but it is very different in college. My high school education prepared me well, but it takes a lot more time and effort to get the same grades.
Office hours really do help
GiphyGo to office hours!! Not only does it help you understand the material better, but you can establish a relationship with your professor and you are more likely to do better in the class.
Organize. Organize. ORGANIZE!
GiphyI would highly recommend investing in a white-board calendar and/ or a planner. They really did save my life and were so helpful in planning ahead. It helps to know exactly when all your tests are so you can plan your studying (or partying) accordingly.
You're allowed to party!
GiphyA lot of people think that once you enter college, you have to commit ALLL your time to studying and schoolwork when that is just not true. Manage your time wisely so that there is space for work AND play. There is nothing wrong with having some fun every once in a while.
Join everything and anything
GiphyWhen the Club and Activities fair comes around, take every single flier that gets handed to you and go to at least 3 different GBM's of different clubs. Some people say that you should get adjusted to college life before getting involved in a club, but being in a club is the perfect way to do that! The best thing to do is just dive right in, try everything out, and if you don't like it, you don't have to go back, but at least you can say that you tried. Clubs are a great way to meet new people that have a shared interest.
Don't be antisocial
GiphyTake advantage of your freshmen year. You will be meeting a lot of people that are in the same boat as you- starting a new school, first time living on your own, and getting adjusted to a new environment. Almost everyone is feeling the same thing, so try and break out of your shell to make as many new friends as possible. My trick is to ask for at least one person's number in every single class you take (you can get help for homework too).
Chegg is your best friend
GiphyI cannot put into words how much I despised doing the ALEKS homework for my chemistry class. Chegg literally saved my life. Pro Tip: Get a group of friends together and you can share an account. It is cheaper, and you can all barely pass your classes together.
Studying the night before is not going to work
GiphyThis tactic might have passed in High School, but I promise you it is not going to slide in college. I would start preparing for a test at the very least 3-5 days in advance. Making review sheets is my personal favorite method of studying, along with doing practice problems and rewatching recorded lectures.
Take time for yourself
GiphyYour health is what matters more than anything else- mental and physical. After a hard days work of seemingly endless classes, exams, and studying, it is important to unwind release the tension in your body. Do some yoga, exercise, or maybe even give yourself a spa treatment once a month. It could be a fun monthly activity between you and your friends.
It goes by a lot faster than you think
GiphyI know that everyone and their mother says this, but it really is true. Honestly, I still can't believe that I've completed a full year of college already... I could have sworn I was just applying for college yesterday. I know it seems like the whole word is moving in slow motion, especially when you are staring at the clock during your hour and 20 minute lecture, but before you know it you will be graduating and entering the real world of adulting.
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