The first day of my Junior Year is so close, I can nearly smell it. Come to think of it, it’s almost as if I were passing McDonalds and cant help but smell the aura of the tempting, yet dangerous, french fries that lingers throughout. THAT’S HOW CLOSE IT IS.
Periodically, I find myself arranging my college schedule like a magical jigsaw puzzle; figuring out the days I’d get to sleep in, the others where I might have a light day of classes, and, of course, how many long afternoons I will have to all myself. Thoughts about post-college life are racking my brain; life of a being a “regular adult”, is really just an arms length away.
As I hit my “midway point”, I think of all the things to absorb and take advantage of during such a sacred time in my life.
No, no…not all the free Jello Shots they give out at the tailgates, or the unlimited buffet of food in the dining hall, or even the free T-Shirts launched out of a cannon during the football games.
I’m talking about the opportunities you should take advantage of before you spread your wings into “real adult life”.
So guys... listen up! These college hacks are sure to benefit you in the long run.
- Learn to take good notes- Being a good note taker may seem like one of the simplest tasks around however, it really takes skill. It’s important to know what is, and what isn’t, crucial to write down. When you score your first job, you wont be able to remember all that you hear in a day’s time. No matter where you end up, Wall Street, Silicon Valley, or even a car wash attendant (totally kidding), being able to rely on your notes can never hurt!
- Make a habit out of being on time- Nothing looks worse than showing up late, even if it’s only 5 minutes. I cannot stress enough how important to get in the habit of being prompt when going to class, meeting friends, and to various appointments. **Golden rule: arriving 5 minutes early is considered being on time**. (Actually, I gotta work on this one)
- Get to know your professors- There is nothing I’ve loved more during my time at Tulane than getting to know each one of my professors individually. These bonds have taught me how to hold a conversation with someone of a higher stature and, given me skill in being able to truly look someone directly in the eye. By engaging in these various different meetings, I’ve learned how truly unique every single one of my professors are. From learning about a professor’s PhD from Stanford, to dropping in on one of my professor’s jamming out to Enrique Iglesias, I’ve never regretted taking the time to talk with each one. It’s nice to know you can count on someone, someday, for a letter of recommendation too.
- Don’t be afraid to initiate study groups- Most jobs, whether you like it or not, will require you to work on a team level basis. Early on, learning how to work with peers: coordinating, brainstorming, and the like, is a task you surely want to have a leg up on in the long run.
- Find a Routine and Stick to it- Whether in school, a part time job, or a full time career, finding a regular routine will make your life as efficient as possible. Bank time to do homework, hang with friends, go to the gym, and even take a nap. Routines are proven to make sure you don’t waste time doing something that is of no value to you. I promise, you’ll always find time to go out and party till your heart’s desire, but… be mindful to have a routine that incorporates balance. I know you wont regret it!
