College is a new phase of life. Everyone starts fresh. No one cares who you were. They want to find out who you are. It’s an opportunity to recreate yourself. Take advantage of it. Here are some ways that might help:
1. Make your own decisions…all of them!
It’s OK to listen to input from mom, dad, siblings or best friends, but ultimately, you are the one responsible for deciding what classes to take, friends to make and events to partake. Nothing says you’re growing up like the ability to make — and be responsible for — all your own decisions.
2. Go to class.
There are so many distractions in college, like TV, sleep, parties, that it’s easy to forget why you came here. There is no substitute for the interaction in a classroom. Explanations of material, anecdotes that breathe life into a subject, hints that help at test time, and the chance to get to know more people are just a few good reasons to lay off the snooze button, get up and go to class.
3. Watch your money.
College costs.They’re up 50 percent over the last decade. Making it worse, schools and banks are stuffing loans and credit cards in the pockets of students who don’t understand the cost of either one. Money issues are the No. 1 reason for dropping out of school. Have fun, but be money smart.
4. Eat well. You’ll be happy.
With mom not around, it’s easy to skip meals, eat only fast-food fare or gorge yourself at the cafeteria buffet line. Don’t do it. Mix in the occasional fruits, vegetables and lots of water. That’s high test-fuel for a body that needs it.
5. Buddy up.
Every event in college, like eating, studying, walking to class, watching a game or hanging out, is a potential group activity and chance to make a friend. If you already have enough charisma to draw a crowd, extend an invitation to the quiet one. If you’re the quiet one, say yes when someone suggests something. There is never going to be an easier place to make friends and share experiences than college.
6. Safety first.
Be alert when traveling in groups and designate a driver when on the roads, especially if drinking is involved.
