As my first year of college comes to a close, I cannot help but reminisce on all the laughs, fears, challenges, and opportunities that were thrown my way. Needless to say, my first year of college was an emotional roller coaster ride, but a thrilling one nonetheless. From finding my niche of friends to exploring my inner self and personal interests, this year has given me a glimpse into “adulthood,” and the accompanying responsibilities of living away from home, doing my own laundry, making big girl decisions, and waking myself up for 8 a.m. classes. Aside from the physical changes of not being in the close proximity and comfort of my home, I have turned inward by fostering my independence as a college student. Furthermore, I have acquired many tools that have aided me in this journey. Below are a few important resources and skills for prospective freshmen that can ensure a smooth and rewarding first-year experience.
Time Management
Time Management is an important skill necessary to balancing an academic and social life. Catching yourself inundated with piles of homework, tests, and papers can leave you feeling overwhelmed. Some people have trouble responding to deadlines, and vast amounts of workload, leaving them to resort to a deviant work behavior we all have been acquainted with at some point in time-procrastination. While putting off your work may ease your stress in the moment, it only prolongs the burden in the long run. A great way to curve procrastination is creating structure by typing up a schedule and allotting yourself a certain amount of hours to complete your assignments. By offering yourself incentives like watching Grey’s Anatomy Episode after the completion of your assignments can certainly serve as an extrinsic motivational factor.
Participate in Class
Sharing your thoughts and opinions aloud in class can be terrifying. While it may feel daunting at first, it can also feel empowering. By making a point during your first week of classes to raise your hand at least once, can help overcome this barrier and enhance your self-confidence in the classroom. Not only will contributing to class discussions improve your participation grade, but it will boost your self-efficacy ultimately resulting in a more articulate you.
Social Network
College is a time to network with professors, students, and experts in your designated field of study. I encourage you to attend workshops and social events that will give you the platform to cultivate these rewarding relationships. Additionally, college is an impeccable time to think about creating a Linked In account which can be helpful in solidifying internships. In a generation that relies on social media, take advantage of all these opportunities.
