Throughout my three years in college, I have learned many things through experience to become a strong student, but I wish I knew this information when I first entered.
1. Time management
Learning how to manage your time well can prevent stress and chaos in the future. As a college student you must learn to make time for work, class, and activities without them getting in the way of the other. If this skill is not learned it can lead to failing classes, losing a job or missing important deadlines. To keep track of everything you do, invest in a planner or google calendar. By doing this, you can stay on top of everything without forgetting deadlines or missing important events
2. Stay on Top of Your Degree Audit
In college its easy to pick fun classes and stray away from your major but you should definitely stay on track. Your degree audit has all the information you need to graduate on time. Don't be lazy and take three classes, if you can take five minimum and six if you are trying to push yourself. This will help you get what you need to get done without staying extra time, which would result in taking out more loans. Do not slack off; put all your best effort in freshman year so junior year you are not stressing.
3. Internships
Do not wait until junior year to apply for internships for the career of your choice. Even if you are not sure what you want to do, pick internships that have to do with your major. Doing this early can help you develop a clearer picture of what you want to do with your life. It can also help you realize if you truly are on the path of your dream.
Internships also allow you to build your resume and experience which is impressive to employers. Finally making a positive impact through these internships can enable you have someone to contact after graduation for a job! Do not delay!
4. Join Clubs
It's easy to stay in your room and watch TV when your done with homework at 5 PM, but do something productive! Club meetings are usually one hour, and it is a great way to make friends. The time commitment is not too much and it's a good way to do something fun with your day.
5. Class Registration
This time of the semester is usually a nightmare for most people unless you are in the honors program. If you can consider joining the honors program because then you can register early, and avoid all of the stress.
If not, there are a few things to do to become successful during registration. First, pick your classes once it is available and set up a schedule that works for you. Second, meet with your adviser as soon as possible to check your classes and clear you for registration. If you do not meet with your adviser you cannot register for classes, that is why it is smart to do this process early rather than a day before registration. Third, make sure that you do not have any holds due to financial reasons or missed mandatory meetings, as this will also prevent you from registering. Finally on the day of registration, be ready to submit your schedule at the time registration is open. For example, if registration is at 6 AM, be up at 5:45 AM to press submit at 6 AM. Do NOT wake up at 6 AM because you may not get the classes you want!
College can be stressful but using these tips can help you make life more organized and fun among all of the stress.
