24 Freshman Tips To Start College Off Right
Start writing a post
Student Life

Start College The Right Way With These 14 Tips For Freshman Year

If only I heard these tips before I came to school!

Teylor Veliotis
Aug 28, 2018
Fordham University
782
https://unsplash.com/photos/ScWvHUtQca4
Photo by Tim Gouw on Unsplash

I loved my freshman year of college; I wish I could travel back in time and experience it again because it was so amazing. It's crazy to think that just one year ago I was worried about starting school. I really wish someone gave me these tips because starting college wouldn't have been so scary!

1. Have an open mind

As an incoming freshman, you've never experienced college as a student. You may have watched a show about college kids or visited someone at their school, but this doesn't mean you know what college is like firsthand. Don't walk into college assuming you know all that's about to come; college is different for everyone, so there's really no telling what's about to come your way.

2. Don’t overpack

My family stuffed our entire Jeep with things for my dorm. Even though I used the majority of it, there were a few things I never even touched. When you start to buy things for your dorm and pack for move-in, be practical about the things you know you need and the things you might need. It's better to save money by not buying something you may never need, since you can always buy it later if you decide you really do need it.

3. Use an agenda or calendar

You're about to be hit with a lot of new information. You should take notes (whether it's in a paper agenda or on your phone) to make sure you remember everything. Also, keep due dates and assignment information in a calendar or planner for your convenience; it's easy to get stressed when your mind can't keep track of everything you have to do!

4. Get enough sleep!

Never underestimate the power of sleep! It's easy to ignore fatigue, but the effects of sleep deprivation are serious; exhaustion can do some pretty nasty things to your body and mind. Even if it means that your notes may not come out as neat as you want them, try to get to bed at a decent time and allow at least eight hours to sleep. If you can't sleep for that many hours at night, try your best to take power naps.

5. Play with your comfort zone

College is all about discovering new things and learning about life. Do your best to be adventurous and experience different things. Never feel pressured to do something you're not okay with, but be aware that leaving your comfort zone and being flexible can lead to growth and development.

6. Sign up for A LOT

taken by Nick Daleo

You'll be meeting a lot of new people, and you'll probably be going to at least one club fair. Leave your information with anyone or any club that interests you; networking is such a big part of college because you never know when an opportunity may come your way. If someday you lose interest, unsubscribing to a few email accounts is the worst that can happen.

7. Keep in touch with the OGs

Becoming close with new people is just as important as staying connected with friends and family from back home. Make time in your schedule to FaceTime, call, text, or even meet up with (if distance allows) your loved ones you don't see as much anymore.

8. Expect the unexpected

taken by Zach Brenner

Since you're meeting so many new people and experiencing different things, you're bound to encounter completely unknown situations; you have no idea what will come out of the simplest of things. Who knows, you may wind up meeting your future boyfriend or girlfriend at a party you didn't even plan on going to?

9. Communicate with your roommate(s)

Some people (like myself) get along with their roommate(s). However, if you ever run into any problems with your roommate(s), speak honestly to them; communication is key when you're living with someone. If you ever need advice about talking to them, reach out to your RAs for suggestions.

10. Buy a few important things even if you’ll never use them

Some things you should keep with you because it is better to be safe than sorry. For example, every student should have condoms on hand regardless of whether they're sexually active or not. Just like having fire extinguishers in the halls, you may not think you need them, but if you ever do, you'll be glad you had them with you. The worst that'll happen is you lose a few dollars on protection you never used.

11. Create a calm zone

Some days (or weeks) will be more stressful than others. Create a part of your room that will make you feel peaceful, or make the entire part of your room serene. It's helpful to have a place to go where you can relax as soon as you feel stressed.

12. Give your body some TLC

taken by Jeffrey Pelayo

Make sure your body is receiving the nutrition and exercise it deserves! It can be easy to skip a meal or two when you're cramming for a test, so make sure to pack some healthy snacks for your study sessions. Plus, exercise is a great way to take a study break that is really healthy for your body (and mind)!

13. Be yourself

Don't act like someone you're not just to fit in with certain people. There are so many different people you will meet, so you're bound to meet some who are similar to you and will love and embrace your personality and hobbies.

14. Talk to people you trust

If you ever feel overwhelmed or need someone to turn to, never hesitate to reach out to someone you can trust (even if they're miles away). There are also so many resources on campus you can seek help from, such as advisors and professors; some schools even have religious and psychological services, as well. Never be afraid to share your feelings, and always encourage others who seem distressed to talk to a trusted adult who can help.

From Your Site Articles
Related Articles Around the Web
Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

19 Lessons I'll Never Forget from Growing Up In a Small Town

There have been many lessons learned.

Siena College
14138
houses under green sky
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Keep Reading...Show less
small towns
Relationships

Grateful Beyond Words: A Letter to My Inspiration

I have never been so thankful to know you.

University of New Haven
291508
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

Smith College
89082
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
waitlisted
Swoon

Navigating the Talking Stage: 21 Essential Questions to Ask for Connection

It's mandatory to have these conversations.

National Writers Society
151579
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less
single life
Lifestyle

Challah vs. Easter Bread: A Delicious Dilemma

Is there really such a difference in Challah bread or Easter Bread?

Marist College
59029
loaves of challah and easter bread stacked up aside each other, an abundance of food in baskets
StableDiffusion

Ever since I could remember, it was a treat to receive Easter Bread made by my grandmother. We would only have it once a year and the wait was excruciating. Now that my grandmother has gotten older, she has stopped baking a lot of her recipes that require a lot of hand usage--her traditional Italian baking means no machines. So for the past few years, I have missed enjoying my Easter Bread.

Keep Reading...Show less

Trending Topics

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments