Last year around this same time I was in the exact place as you were. College was a month away and I was stressing. As excited as I was, I knew that there was a lot that I had to do to prepare myself for this monumental experience in my life. So much had to be taken into consideration to ensure I made the most out of my time. After my first year I learned a few tips to help make your experience easier and more enjoyable that I will most definitely remember throughout the next few school years and hopefully you will too.
1. Stock up on quarters.
If you go to a school like I did where laundry wasn't free, quarters are a must. There is nothing like being out of clean underwear and not having enough change to wash them. If you're lucky enough to have free laundry in your dorm, quarters always come in extremely handy when you want a late night vending machine snack.
2. Pack comfortable shoes.
I can't even count the amount of times I had to waddle across campus with blisters the size of quarters on my feet from uncomfortable shoes. Sacrifice style for comfort, you won't regret it.
3. Unlike high school, studying is a must.
We all got away with doing the most minimal amount of studying we could, but unfortunately the fun and games are over. Whether it's flash cards, rewriting notes or any other effective way of studying, you need to make sure you take the time to study so you can succeed.
4. Utilize the resources your school has to offer.
You will benefit from study groups, tutoring and anything else that may help you improve your grades. Most schools offer these things for free so use it to your advantage and get the most out of your tuition.
5. Remember to bring an umbrella.
Unlike high school, it is not "uncool" to carry an umbrella while it's raining. Most people I see have them because nobody wants to have to sit in wet, soggy clothes all class.
6. It is perfectly normal to eat alone.
Back in high school, one of everyone's worst fears was having to eat alone. Between classes in college, just about everybody has some time to spare to get a bite to eat and more times than not they are by themselves. No one will look at you weird or think you don't have friends, I promise.
7. Try to avoid buying your books from the bookstore.
The books in the bookstore are extremely overpriced and can most likely be found for less in numerous other places. Websites like Chegg and Amazon are great for buying and renting textbooks that are much less than the price the bookstore is asking for. In addition to this, wait to buy your books until you are absolutely certain you will need them for the class.
8. Get involved.
Whether it's an on campus job, club or organization, there are plenty on opportunities around campus to get involved with. These will help you meet people and always give you something to do, not to mention it will look great to future employers.
9. Go to class.
I can not stress this enough. Not only will you miss out on important information but many professors grade on attendance and I promise you, you will be extremely unhappy with yourself if skipping class is the reason your grade went from an A to a B.
10. Schedule your classes wisely.
In regards to number nine, if you don't you're going to be able to wake up every day for an 8:00 a.m. class, don't schedule yourself for one. You're setting yourself up for failure and that is the last thing that you want. On the other hand, if you want to have the evening to relax and focus on your work, don't schedule a night class for yourself.
11. Keep your syllabus in a safe place.
The majority of professors I've had include just about every bit of useful information in the syllabi including important test and exam dates. Don't throw your syllabus out because most likely you will refer back to it multiple times during the semester.
12. Ask questions.
There is nothing wrong with asking questions when you're confused. In fact, it is actually recommended to ask questions because it shows the professors that you are actually interested in understanding the material they are covering.
13. Your mental health is important.
I'm not going to lie, college is hard. It is a big change from high school and just about everyone gets overwhelmed. It is normal. Sometimes you need to step away from your work and breath and that is perfectly alright. Grades are important, but your mental health is more important.
