Dear Incoming Freshmen,
Let me be one of the first to say, "Welcome to (insert college here)!" I know transitioning from high school to college can be a scary experience, and it's OK to be nervous about it. When you enter campus for the first time, you may seem lost and confused, and even shy to make new friends. You may be worried when it comes time for classes to start and you have to purchase books. You're scared that you might not fit in. And that's OK. Not everything will happen in an instant. Transitioning from high school to college is a gradual process and I believe that you will all be OK. How do I know this: Because I was a freshman in college.
If you want to make the most out of your college experience, take these tips from me:
1. Syllabus week: One of the most important weeks of your college career
Having a syllabus in college is vital. It contains important information such as test dates, paper and project deadlines, attendance policies, and a professor's contact information and office hours. Make sure you follow your syllabus. Your professor won't chase you around asking "Where's your paper?" like in high school. Befriend your syllabus.
2. Books: Sometimes the bookstore may not offer the best prices
Do your research. Check out several websites from Collegetextbooks.com to Chegg.com. They offer books at cheaper prices and possibly lower shipping rates. Using other sites will save you hundreds of dollars, meaning you could buy some new school gear and some food for you and your friends.
3. Get involved: Join a club and attend school events
Find a club that may interest you. It could be a business club, student government, art, music, science, Greek Life and so on. It's a great way to make new friends, whether you're a resident or a commuter. The clubs and organizations can motivate you to start your own club. Attend a concert, a sporting event or a social event; just have fun along the way doing it.
4. Food: Don't waste all your money on food
You have a meal plan. Take advantage of it. If you want to order out every once in a while then go for it. Even if you don't like what the cafeteria serves on that day, you should try for alternatives. Plus, you may have some snacks in your dorm (or if you commute, bring some from home) to splurge on. Save your money. And be careful with what you eat and be cautious of the Freshman 15.
5. Branch out
Maybe you go to college with multiple friends from high school. There's nothing wrong with remaining friends or even good friends with them, but don't let this hold you back from meeting other people. You may find friends at a sports event, class or a club. Don't go through college alone. No one should.
6. Declaring a major: Don't sweat it
Plenty of people go into college undecided, and there's nothing wrong with that. It may seem like there's a lot of pressure to decide now, but after a semester or two of classes you'll figure it out what you want to do with your future career!
7. Study, study, study
Freshmen have just spent the previous year with senioritis, and studying for tests was unheard of. High school was also a lot easier so it was possible to not study and still do well; but in college, if you fail, there may be no way out. There is no such thing as "easy street" in college. Study your hardest, and ask for tutoring or help from a professor if you're struggling. Take advantage of all study sources and you'll succeed. Don't be afraid of the library either; it may be better than you think. Do not procrastinate!
8. Party -- with caution.
College is fun, and you're meant to be partying. But five nights a week might be a little overboard. If this doesn't affect your grades then by all means party on, but I know plenty of people whose GPAs were shit as freshmen for this exact reason.
9. Call home
It's OK if you're homesick. Call your family and tell them that everything is great. It may be a struggle at first, but I know you'll do great on campus.
10. Have fun
They say that college is the best four years you'll ever experience, so take advantage of that. Have fun, be yourself, study hard and enjoy college to the best of your ability. You will miss it once you walk at graduation and receive your degree. Because at the end of the day, everything will be just a blur.
I was a freshman once. If I can get through it, then you can, too.
Good luck!!
Sincerely,
A college senior, who was a freshman herself.
