When I enrolled in a four-year university in August 2014, I blindly began the semester. I didn't know any upperclassmen to give me advice, I didn't do any research on the school's website to figure out what needs to be done once moved in and I make the mistake of failing to pay attention during orientation. I was that confused, lost freshman who walked around campus with a map, and pulled strangers for questions daily.
There were many tips that I wished that I had received at the beginning of my freshman year, and I want to give you some of that advice to ensure a smooth transition.
1. Stay organized!
Whether you're taking 10 credits or 17, organization is key. Remembering due dates, pacing yourself and setting small goals will help you succeed in your course work. Some of you may also balance a job while enrolled in school to help pay for your education or bills, some just have some spare cash ready for those nights your friends want to order pizza and binge-watch "Grey's Anatomy." Although jobs are important, don't neglect your school work or lose focus because of your job. Make sure you change your work schedule accordingly to accommodate your class schedule.
My number one recommendation for ALL students would be to carry an agenda, so that all important dates and information will be in one place and easily accessible. Remember, you're not paying thousands in tuition to fail!
2. Communicate, communicate, communicate.
OK, so you and your roommate are having a mini-battle on whose turn it is to clean the bathroom. Communicate. You failed an exam and are unsure where you stand in terms of passing a class. Communicate. You woke up one morning with a massive migraine and missed class or an important meeting. Communicate.
Communication is important among your roommates, professors, family, etc. Letting people know where you are, what you're doing, what you're succeeding in and how you're feeling leads to healthy, loyal relationships. Communicating your ideas and concerns will help you and your roommates live peacefully, your professor will see that you are wholeheartedly dedicated to your education and will resolve issues you may have.
3. Clean. Please.
Even if a "weekly chore schedule" must be made and hung on the refrigerator, make sure you take care of your living space. Cleaning regularly shows that you respect your things and the things you share with others. Not to mention you will feel so much better knowing you're not sleeping in a pile of dusty trash.
4. Be mindful when you pack.
During my freshman year, we were required to live in the dorms which had limited closet space. A few of my roommates decided to bring their entire wardrobe from home, every stuffed animal from their childhood and enough food to feed half of the country. They dealt with cluttered spaces, tangled garments and lost items until they had a chance to take some of their belongings home.
Be conscious of how you pack and where you store your items. Utilize the space underneath your bed and behind your doors by bringing storage bins and hanging storage containers to keep things up and out of sight. Remember that on top of your belongings, you may also have to share limited space with your other roommates.
5. Get involved.
OK, so many of you have heard of sororities and fraternities on campus. Yes, they are a good way to meet new people, find connections, and form friendships. However, if Greek life is not your cup of tea, there are plenty of other clubs and activities that you could dive right into. Some will be a bit pricey, some will be almost free. Some will be hard to join, some will take you in a heartbeat. No matter the price tag, finding your niche on campus will ensure you have the best college experience while being away from your hometown friends.
6. Physical health should not be forgotten!
The freshman 15 is a very real thing, and it is very easy to slide into bad habits. I made this mistake, myself. Whether it is the freshman five, 10, 15 or 20, be mindful of your eating and exercise habits. The overwhelming plethora of pizza in the dining buffet, the cookies given to you as incentives for showing up to a meeting and the constant ramen packets will soon catch up to you. Most college campuses have gyms included in tuition, and if not, a 30-minute walk around campus will make you feel productive. Additionally, simple lifestyle changes like taking the stairs instead of the elevator, drinking more water instead of soda, and buying healthier groceries will also make a difference.
7. Mental health should never be dismissed!
Stressing about an upcoming exam, homesick or upset about a recent situation? It's OK to talk about your feelings to your friends and family. Those people are there for you, and willing to support you through thick and thin. Don't be scared to take advantage of that never-ending support and love.
On top of your loved ones, campuses also provide counselors and other professionals who are willing to listen and act in ways to benefit your overall well-being. Don't forget about yourself! Your mental health is important and can, in some cases, be a factor in your academic performance. So please, talk to your family and friends, talk to professionals and do things during your college career that make YOU happy.
8. It's OK to say "no."
You will run into sticky situations, in which you will be forced to make tough decisions.
Saying "no" doesn't make you less cool. Saying "no" doesn't make you a coward. Saying "no" means that you are a responsible adult and are willing to take control of your life to benefit your future.
9. Utilize your resources.
Campuses provide a variety of resources that are available for you to use. These on-campus resources include: Tutoring centers, gym, advising, counseling, health departments, libraries and more. While off campus or online resources consist of: databases, academic networking, online advisement, and so on. Using these resources will answer any questions you may have from obtaining unofficial transcripts to finding out what will be on the lunch menu today.
10. Be kind, courteous and respectful!
Throughout your college career, you will meet many different people who have many different backgrounds and unique skills. Some of these people you will have to collaborate with to get work done, some you will be sharing a room in the library with, some of them you may even run into in the future at a job fair or corporate meeting. It's important to be kind to everyone, courteous to those around you, and respectful to your neighbors, friends and professors. Your energy not only reflects what kind of person you are, but will make a lasting impression to others. The friendlier you are to people, the friendlier they will be towards you. Don't forget that you must show respect to earn respect.
11. Don't lose sight of your end goal.
Why did you decide to continue your education? Was it to earn your bachelor's degree in something you care about? Was it to expand your resume? How about to gain skills in a subject you are passionate about? Do you want a high-paying job?
Whatever your reasoning is, don't lose sight of your end goal. You decided to make a difference in your life for a reason. You decided to continue your education for reasons that will benefit you and your future. Remember to stay on track, do what you do, do it well and stay positive. I promise you, you will have an unforgettable, deserving college career.
