Your first year of college is a very exciting one. A new chapter of your life is beginning to start, and your're excited to see what the next few years holds for you. But, while you are excited to get your degree, make new friends, and have a taste of independence, you should also make full use of the endless opportunities that your college holds. So, while you are stocking up on school supplies and thinking about how you should decorate your dorm room, make sure to check out these twelve things you should do your freshman year!
1). Join a club
Don't just spend your leisurely time laying around. Put yourself out there and join a club or organization. You will learn so many good skills from joining a club, such as: organization, team work, and how to express ideas. If you're lucky, you might just make some really good friends, too.
2). Take new and interesting classes
Don't just stick to your major. Try a language class, or a philosophy class. Take up something that will challenge you in new ways and make you think.
3). Get to know faculty and staff
Make sure to get to know your school's staff. Say hi to the cafeteria workers, get to know the names of the security guards, and always say hello to the custodians in the halls. You will never know when you might need their help. But, it also shows proper gratitude to the hardworking staff who keep the school running properly.
4). Make upperclassmen friends
It's also a good idea to make some friends a year or two ahead of you. They can tell you about your professors, give you advice, and point you in the right direction. The only downside is seeing them graduate before you.
5). Open your mind up
Don't just sit around with a closed mind. You will meet so many diverse people in college, which means you will be confronted with different opinions and ideas. Make sure to listen to other people's ideas and open up your mind to new possibilities. Think outside the box...
6). Try a new hobby
You can also try something new and fun during your free time. Poetry, art, and writing are just a few hobbies you could try to take up to keep your mind sharp, and keep yourself from getting lazy.
7). Get informed about opportunities/internships
It's also a good idea to look out for new opportunities to learn new skills and expand your resume. Often times, schools promote local internships, which will help you gain the valuable experience you will need to find a job after you graduate. So, make sure to keep a good eye out on what's available around your school!
8). Get to know your professors
Getting to know your professors will help you out in the long run. By getting to know your professor, you build trust with the faculty. And, you can go to them later on to ask advice, or even list them as a reference in a resume. If you are lucky enough, you might even find professors who will inspire you to do better and support you through your years at school.
9). Try getting a job on campus
Sometimes students can be eligible for work study, which is essentially working for the school. Often times, the pay can go straight to your tuition, lessening the financial burdens of schooling. The jobs can range anywhere from working in school labs to working in the school library. It would be wise to see if you are eligible for work study through your FASFA, as it can also help you avoid taking out too many expensive loans.
10). Get to know your academic advisers
You will often find that your major has its own academic advisers. These are people who help people find the right classes for their major, and help them keep up with the school's curriculum. You should definitely make appointments with them when it comes time to select classes. And, you should regularly keep in touch with them to make sure you are on the right path to graduating.
11). Keep yourself in tune with campus news
Always stay up to date with what's going on in your school, because you never know what important deadlines are coming up, or what rules may change year to year. But, it is also important to know what issues may be going on at school, or what new changes could come your way.
12). Use campus resources
Always know that your campus can offer you help if you need it. Most schools have tutors, counselors, and all sorts of advisers who are happy to help you. If you ever have a problem, never be ashamed to ask for help.
Taking the initiative to try these tips will not only enhance your college experience, but will put you on the right path to success. Even if this year isn't your first, you can still take advantage of these tips and make this upcoming school year an awesome one!
