The transition from high school to college can be a tough and scary ride. Part of you is so ready to be independent, and the other part is scared to move on from your high school days. It’s a new chapter in your life, and you can choose to embrace it or to let it hold you back.
1. Leave your high school stuff at home.
I know it’s hard to close the book on that chapter of your life, but believe me it’ll pay off to commit to this new chapter in your life.
2. Never turn down free stuff!
The amount of food, shirts, and merchandise given out on your campus is amazing. Don’t lose out on a chance to get any free products your campus has to offer! This free stuff pays off in the long run when you are living the broke college kid lifestyle.
3. Get involved early and stay involved!
I cannot even begin to tell you how important this is. The earlier you get involved, the sooner you’ll feel as if you belong to something bigger and you’ll meet new people. It truly helps your comfort level and decrease the chances of getting severely homesick.
4. Do not skip class!
Everyone has this misconception that when you begin college that you don’t need to go to class or your professor’s don’t care. This is true in some cases, but the majority of professor’s take attendance and it is a huge factor on your grades.
5. Never take an 8 a.m. class
I made this mistake my first semester, because I thought after having done it all through high school, it wouldn't be so bad. YOU ARE LYING TO YOURSELF! Waking up for that morning class was the worst part of my week!
6. Call your parents
I know you feel like you are independent now and want to distance yourself from your parents now, but believe me you will appreciate everything they do for you more than ever now. Your parents want to hear about your day. They care so let them be there for you
7. Do not pack your entire closet!
Only bring the necessities especially when it comes to t-shirts. By the end of the first month of being on campus, my t-shirt drawer was overflowing. Bring half of the pile you think you need. It’ll save you much needed space for your new clothes.8. Have an open mind to Greek life
8. Have an open mind to Greek life.
I was the last person anyone thought would join Greek life. It isn’t for everyone, but don’t close off that opportunity because of the nasty stereotypes we hear in the media. It’s not all about parties and cute shirts. There really is something more and if you find it isn't for you, at least you tried!
9. Don’t go home every weekend
Try to stay on campus and give it a chance to grow on you. I know how tempting it is to go home all the time when you are stressed, sick, or missing your friends and family. You’ll be so much happier the times you go out with your friends and stay on campus.
10. Use any help they offer you
Whether it’s your professor offering review sessions or it’s going to your campus writing center, don’t be embarrassed to ask for help! These resources were put in place to help you succeed!
11. Go to sporting events
Having pride in your university is a wonderful thing and showing up to cheer your team on really means a lot to them. Be proud of the university you chose!
12. Try to stay healthy
It is so easy to eat junk every day and skip exercising, but you will be happier when you care for your body. The recreation center fee is already in your tuition. You should really take advantage of it even if it’s once a week.
13. Have fun
It’s okay to go out but know your limit. Classes should be your first priority, but that’s not to say that you can’t go out. Find a good balance.
14. It’s okay to change majors
Don’t stay in a major you hate just because you think it looks good or it’s what your parents want. Find a major that you can see yourself working in for the rest of your life.
15. Never be afraid to meet with your professors
Your professors are there to help you succeed. They have office hours for a reason, use them even if it’s just one question. They take notice of the students who really put in the effort. Start building relationships with your professors. They will be the one’s writing you recommendations in the future.
16. Be yourself
This isn’t high school if you want to wear pajama pants to class no one will judge you, in fact, most people would be jealous including me. Don’t try to be something you’re not.
17. Invite yourself to things
You don’t need an explicit invitation to go to a party with your friends or to study with them in the library. Don’t be afraid to be a tagalong.
18. Find where your classes are ahead of time
The last thing you need on the first day of classes is to be lost. If you can’t find where it is, ask for help. No one wants to be late their first day of class!
19. Try new things
College is the time to break out of your comfort zone and explore new things. Trying new things can often end in an unexpected friendship.
20. Stay organized
Procrastinating may seem like an okay thing to do until it is right before your deadline and you haven’t started. Save yourself time and stress; get things done early.
