Having a brother who has experienced the college years before me has been both a blessing and a curse. My brother had given me very little advice on what to expect my fall semester of my freshman year because most of the time he "doesn't remember." But after having gone through an entire year as a college student, I have picked up on some pointers I wish I knew when I was first entering. So, for those of you who are about to pack your bags and start a new journey, this is for you.
The workload is intense.
There will be times you have to read 40 pages of a history textbook, read half a book in one night, or write a 10-page research paper. Be prepared to work your ass off.
The amount of money you spend on books is ridiculous.
My fall semester last year alone I spent $450 on textbooks I barely even opened. Be cautious of prices and make sure you prioritize which books are needed more.
Buy textbooks on Chegg.
By using Chegg, I saved over $150 on textbooks. You can buy or rent both new and old books, PLUS you can annotate. Personally, this helps me since I'm a visual learner.
Avoid 8 a.m. classes, if possible.
Last fall semester, I had an 8 a.m. class every day, which was ROUGH. If you're looking to take a class and it's offered at a different time, and it doesn't conflict with your schedule, TAKE IT. Occasionally, like me, you'll have an hour long 8 a.m. class like Psych Bio, which was actually a fun class. However, I've also had that 8 a.m., 90-minute History class, which discussed the early ages up until the 1,500s. You don't want those types of 8 a.m. classes. Preferably, those type of classes are better if taken later in the morning when you are more awake and engaged.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
The thought of asking professors questions can be rather intimidating, but believe it or not, they can be pretty cool and accommodating. Also, take advantage of the free tutoring. At Rider, they offer numerous options for help. I've utilized the writing lab on multiple occasions to proofread my papers, not only for my composition classes, but for psych and history. There's also the option of group tutoring or individual tutoring sessions composed by either a professor who taught the class or a student who took the class with the same professor as you.
Establish a relationship early on with your academic advisor(s).
I'll admit I was afraid of emailing or visiting my advisor because I didn't want to look like a clueless freshman. However, in doing so, we now have established a great relationship, and she provides me with advice to keep my education on the right path and genuinely cares about my success.
Sleep is vital.
Those late night cramming sessions are no good for the mind. I know college is a lot of work, but take the time to give your body time to rejuvenate itself. Without at least 7.5-8 hours of sleep, it becomes very difficult for the body to function correctly. Sleep is vital, period.
Always take notes.
This is HUGE. I didn't realize how crucial it is to take notes, whether it's by hand or on a laptop. Pay attention in class and take down notes quickly because it's valuable in succeeding.
Hopefully, you soon to be college freshman are more aware of the expectations your new journey entails. Use these tips of advice to help you succeed!
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