College: the place to make new friends, take classes you actually care about, and discover yourself. If you haven't started your semester yet, you most likely will be in the next couple of weeks. Whether this is your first semester or your last semester, you can always try to better yourself as a college student. Here are eight tips to have a successful semester.
1. Don't skip class.
Mommy and daddy can't force you to go to school anymore, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't go. Every time you skip class you lose money. It's okay to skip if you're sick or if you need a mental health day, but try not to miss the maximum amount of absent days your professors give you, if they give you any. Also, don't skip a class to do homework for said class, You'll just get further behind and will most likely want to skip again. Use your sick days wisely!
2. Be smart with textbooks.
Before you rush to the bookstore to buy all the "necessary" books, look up online rentals from places like Amazon or Chegg. You'll most likely save some money this way. Also, ask your professors if the books are critical for the course. If you're getting a book for the one science credit you need, you can probably just rent it or buy it and sell it back. If you're getting a book for a course in your major, you might want to buy it and hold onto it in case you need it again in another class.
3. Get involved.
Find a club or two (or more!) that really interests you. Also, try to find one that maybe isn't your first choice. You can meet some new people and learn something new. Even if you don't think you'll join a club, try going to a few first meetings and see how you like it. Most college clubs are pretty lenient with members' activity, so don't feel like you're getting trapped in a web by joining some.
4. Stay active.
If you have a gym on campus take advantage of it! Suddenly having unlimited food and constant drinking can cause you to start putting on some extra pounds. Set a goal, even if it's something as simple as working out for an hour two days a week or 30 minutes three days a week. Exercise is not only great for helping you stay physically healthy, but it helps to relieve stress as well.
5. Talk to new people.
This is especially important if you're new or looking for some new friends! Open up, try not to feel awkward, and just talk to people. You'll be amazed at how nice people can be. Try to get to know some of the people in your hall or classes. You never know; you could meet your future best man or maid of honor.
6. Always do your homework.
Always. Do. Your. Homework. If you don't, you'll get lost in class and then you'll be confused on the next assignment and not do that, and the whole process will repeat itself. Also, take advantage of extra credit because you may need it later on.
7. Don't go out all the time.
Remember that you're at college for school. It's okay to party every now and then, but try to balance your social life and your school life. Don't push off an assignment or studying for a test so you can go out for a few hours. Just do your work and then have some fun.
8. Have fun!
Remember to enjoy yourself and not get completely caught up in taking too many credits or joining too many clubs. Of course anything that can help your resume is important, but it shouldn't be all that matters. Make some time for yourself, spend some time with your friends, and enjoy the time you have left at college.
