College is a whole different experience from high school. I remember that in my senior year of high school I was thrilled and nervous about college. I wasn't quite sure what to expect. Through mistakes and triumphs, I have discovered what's important. These are some things that I learned along the way and will hopefully make your first year at college a little easier.
1. Don't be afraid to venture outside of your comfort zone
College is a time to experience new things. Join that fencing club or take that challenging math class. You never know what you'll learn or who you'll meet.
2. Study! Study! Study!
College is expensive, so making the most of it is crucial. College is nothing like high school. You can't expect to do well just by attending class. Do the practice problems that the professors assign (even if they're not mandatory) and the readings. Being focused and getting good grades will also help you land a job after college.
3. Meet new people and have fun
While grades are important, they aren't everything. You'll remember the experiences you had, not whether you got a B+ or a B in that astronomy course you took freshman year. Having the right balance between studying and socializing will only help you perform better in classes.
4. Get enough sleep
Sleep is important, so try to get enough every night. Getting a good night rest is essential for performing your best. Try to aim for a good 8 hours.
5. Don't procrastinate
Pulling an all righter is downright painful and can affect the rest of your week. Plan ahead, and you'll have more time to go out with your friends on the weekend.
6. Attend your classes
Even if a class isn't mandatory, attend it. It's much easier to learn the material when the professor is teaching it than learning it from power point before the exam. Also, you never know when a professor may drop a hint about an exam.
7. Don't panic
It's okay to be unsure of your major or what you'll be doing after college. Attend different classes to see what you like. Take every day one step at a time, and you'll end up where you want to be.
8. Don't be afraid of change
In college, people have many different experiences which can shape a personality. It's a time for self-discovery. You'll graduate a different person than you were entering college, and that's okay.
9. Find a way to get out of bed
Put your alarm clock out of reach. It'll be easier to wake up if you physically have to get out of bed. It will also force you to go to that 8 a.m. class you have.
10. Get to know your professors
They have office hours to answer any questions you have. Getting to know them doesn't hurt either. You never know when a recommendation letter might come in handy.
11. Plan Plan Plan
Sit down and use a calendar to plan out your semester, including study time. Having specific times for everything will make your everyday plans much easier.
12. Never give up
Everyone has had days where they felt that the world was ending. Whether it's fighting with a friend or performing poorly on your chemistry final, you'll get through it.
13. Take care of yourself
Eating right, getting sleep, and exercising will not only make you feel great but will also help you be mentally strong.
