As the new school year approaches and orientation comes to an end, it's only fair that all the new and incoming freshman learn some tips to surviving their first year of college. It's normal to be scared of being away from friends and family, but that doesn't mean you should go into your first college class looking like a deer in headlights. I remember my first day freshman year like it was yesterday, so from a seasoned vet like myself (I'm a graduating senior with one semester left — yay!) to a new freshman like yourself, here are 14 tips to help you get through!
1. Call mom.
This is probably one of the more important tips I can share. Why? Well, because you may be far from home and on your own but that doesn't mean you have to forget your family too. Your mom will love to hear from you either every day or even just once a week. You never know, she might have some advice to share or can tell you the recipe for your favorite cookies so it feels like you never even left! Trust me, calling mom is the best thing.
2. Make at least one friend in every class.
I know for some it is hard to make friends easily, but don't let that stop you. Make a friend in each of your classes because you never know when you might need a study partner or someone to share notes with should you miss a class.
3. Go to class.
This is by far the MOST important tip. College gives you a lot of freedom, but don't abuse it. Yes, I understand if you miss a class because you're sick or because you slept through your alarm. But do not make it a habit! Going to class often cannot only save your grade but can also ensure that you are still a part of the university. So, don't forget, going to class is an absolute must!
4. Sleep.
College is fun and crazy, but don't forget to get some sleep, too. Staying up until 4 a.m. every night when you have an 8:30 a.m. lecture is a recipe for disaster (refer to tip No. 3). Make sure you get enough sleep each night to keep you awake during class and to keep you happy and healthy! Just don't overdo it and start sleeping through your classes.
5. Office hours.
Professors will have at least one office hour a day. Use it. Go in and talk to them about that chemistry problem you can't figure out or that lecture you sat through wondering what was going on. Professors love it when their students come to visit them so make it a habit to stop by at least once a week. You'll be surprised at how eager they are to help and how willing they will be to discuss your grade at the end of the semester (you know, bumping that B to an A).
6. Eat.
Food. It's a necessity. A lot of students get caught up in the social life and academics and then tend to forget to eat throughout the day. My freshman year I avoided the Freshman 15, only to lose 15 pounds in a moment. Don't be like me! You'll be tired and irritable and not want to do anything (granted mine was stress induced). Thus, take it from me and make sure to get those three square meals a day! And don't just eat junk food!
7. Visit the gym.
I was not a fan of working out when I first started college, but now I see how beneficial it is. You already pay for your membership, so you might as well use it! No need to spend several hours at the gym if you don't want to, but a swim in the pool or a quick run on the treadmill will do you wonders.
8. Walk to your classes.
OK, this one might sound a little strange but it is definitely a life saver! No one wants to be the one that shows up late to class the first day. Therefore, walk through your class schedule the weekend before classes start. This way you will know where the buildings are located in relation to one another as well as how long it will take you to get from class to class. Note: You won't be the only one doing this; I'm a senior and I still walk through my class schedule each semester.
9. Tutoring.
If you are struggling or feel like you might struggle in a class, find a tutor. Many college campuses offer free tutoring for active students, and these tutors work with your schedule too! Just make an appointment for whatever it is you need help with and a tutor will help you to succeed! No need to get behind or drop a class when the resources are available to you.
10. Plan your classes correctly.
So orientation has either happened for you or is happening, but that doesn't mean it is the end all be all. Why? Well, because you can plan your class schedule all the way until the last day of the first week of class. This is to give students time to adjust to classes, professors and class times as well as ensure that they have enrolled in the right class. Therefore, an 8:30 a.m. lecture is a LOT different than first period at 7:30 a.m. in high school. So make sure to avoid morning classes if you aren't a morning person, and avoid 18-hour semesters if you aren't willing to study for 20 hours a week. Plan your class schedule based on your personal needs; it's college make it your own!
11. Get involved by stepping out of your comfort zone.
So you might have been cheer captain, or the quarterback, or the star point guard, or first chair in band, but that doesn't mean your high school activities should fall to the wayside in college. Your university will offer a ton of clubs, extracurriculars and sporting events to keep you busy and involved with your peers. Don't hesitate to join Spanish club because it sounds cool or the wake-boarding team because you want to try something new. It's a new year in a new place so why not step out of your comfort zone!
12. The library.
Yes, there are still books there but this is an excellent place to get some much needed studying done. There are plenty of little nooks to hide away in and disappear from the hustle and bustle of campus. Not to mention the endless amount of computers and printers plus on-hand help from librarians and technicians. It may not seem cool, but the library is the place to be, especially during finals week.
13. Freebies.
You're in college. College is expensive. Utilize every chance for something free. It doesn't matter if it is a coupon, a cup, sunglasses, a pen or even a T-shirt. Free is free and as a college student you want as many free things as you can grab.
14. Be yourself.
While the previous 13 tips are quite essential to having a successful freshman year, this final tip is definitely the one you should always remember: BE YOURSELF. There is nothing wrong with you are, so just because you are in a new school in a new place and with new people doesn't mean you have to lose your sense of identity. Don't be afraid to try new things and experience more of life as you develop and grow your identity, but do not lose your sense of self! Be you no matter what; you will find that this is the ultimate key to not only surviving your freshman year but also to surviving college and then life in general.
