Before starting school at Oregon State, a high school teacher I admired greatly gave me 11 pieces of advice. Now about to finish my fourth year of college, I found myself reflecting on the advice she gave me, and how I used it.
1. Take good notes. Yes. I can't stress this enough. I'm not saying I always followed this, but I am saying I always did better when I followed this.
2. Don't spend too much time reading textbooks. This for me, depends on the class. Sometimes you really shouldn't buy the book. Always check the library first. Yet, if a whole book is assigned you should read it, especially if you have a paper on it, a quick skim only works for Bac core classes.
3. Get involved in something on campus. I should have, and regret it. While I did a lot within the sorority, my best friend started working for the MUPC and it has made such a brilliant impact. Go to events on campus. It's not lame.
4. Take naps on the couches in the Memorial Union Lounge. I know it seems totally sketchy, but it is super relaxing. I only did it once, and I was concerned someone might rob me, but it was totally fine. Even if it's not your regular habit, I recommend doing it at least once (also studying there is super comfortable).
5. On sunny days do your homework in the quad. I don't do this, but I have terrible allergies in the spring. I go outside for twenty minutes and I'm sneezing forever. Plus I burn super easy. The people who lay out in the sun doing homework do seem to be having a great time though, so try it for yourself!
6. Don't skip class. You are paying for it! My grandmother used to calculate exactly how much money missing one class would cost. I did that once and it scared the crap out of me. You really should go. I'm not saying I am a perfect angel about it, and you are an adult who can make their own decisions, but think about what you are missing.
7. If you find yourself deciding between experience and studying, choose experience four out of five times. Sometimes you really need to do that studying, but you should also grow as a person. College isn't just about books, tests, and homework. Find a good balance and stick with it.
8. Get to know your instructors. I am terrible at this. Something about them scares me and I get all weird about office hours. Don't be me. Make a connection, it will help you so much throughout your college career. If you are going to grad school this is a must.
9. Don't take too many classes with friends. I try to take almost none with friends. For some reason I am a better student. It also helps my friendships because I don't have to tell them to shut up in class. It's a weird portal to distraction having a friend with you.
10. Don't get too caught up in the party scene. Only drink if you want to. Drink responsibly and go to Clod's when you turn 21. I honestly agree with all of this. Partying is not always the best way to have fun, and falling for peer pressure can be dangerous. Keep yourself in line and only do what you are comfortable with. Clod's is also my favorite bar in town, but it's not so exciting that you would want to sneak in, which is something I recommend never doing (it's illegal, and so not worth the risk). But, when you are 21 it is the perfect place to get a beer and curly fries with friends.
11. Don't visit home too often. While I agree you shouldn't go home every weekend, I do now wish I had gone home more. Now whether that is because of events that occurred, or just wanting my mom to cook me dinner, I can't tell. I do however know this is something that should also be case by case. Go home when you need too. Don't take home for granted, but don't use it as a crutch.
Personally I believe college is a time for finding yourself. One of the many times you will get to do so. Here you get a safety net, you are almost pre-adult. Don't take this time for granted. Not everyone gets the privilege to be where you are. Make the most of everyday you have.
And for those like me taking a fifth year, remember what you have learned these last four years.
