May 1 is one of the most exciting days of the year for high school seniors. From this day on you kind of, sort of know what you're going to be doing for the next four years. You can now allow "senioritis" to take over and enjoy those sick days you saved up. Still, committing to a college is only the first step. There are many steps that follow the big decision on May 1. Some of these can be overwhelming, but it's nothing to freak out about!
1. Find a Roommate.
Your freshman year roommate is an important part of your college experience. This person will shape your first year in a new place. This will be the person you can count on for almost anything and build a bond with. You'll also be spending a lot of time with this person so choose wisely! It's been said never to room with your high school BFF, but in some cases that may be the safer bet than a random choice. Many schools have Facebook pages where you can "meet" prospective roomies. And of course you can stalk the sh*t out of them on social media to see if they're cool or not.
2. Go Dorm Shopping.
Bed, Bath and Beyond will soon become a staple in your life. For the next few months, you will find yourself spending more time there and at Target than in your own home. There's so much stuff you never realized you needed in order to live on your own. You'll be coordinating with your roommate on a color scheme, as well as choosing from dozens of mini-fridges that all seem the same. Don't stress though, most schools have stores near by in case you forget anything. Definitely choose the 'buy here, pick up there' option, you won't believe how much stuff your huge SUV cannot fit!
3. Pick A Major.
Most of you selected a certain major when you applied to school, others may not have had the option or were just unsure of what they wanted. Well, the time is coming for you to choose! Yes, many students change their minds many times during their college career, and many don't even declare a major their first year, but it will save you a lot of time and money if you pick a major quickly. The sooner you know what you want to study, the sooner you can take the classes you need to graduate. Not knowing your major until later in your college career may harm you in terms of having enough credits, which will be costly and could even cause you to have to stay in school longer.
4. Pick Your Classes.
Throughout the summer, different schools have different days in which they open class registration to incoming freshman. This day will be stressful yet exciting. You'll be choosing what you wish to take and at what time, really able to choose any class you'd like. This will give you the opportunity to explore the many different classes your school offers, as well as a taste of your responsibilities and freedom for the next four years when it comes to your school work. If you choose wisely and early enough you could get Fridays off! If your school doesn't allow you to choose the times for your schedule, just pray you don't get too many 8 A.M. classes!
5. Apply For Financial Aid/Scholarships.
You all most likely applied for financial aid as you applied to schools. I'm sure that this played a big part in your decision of what college to choose. Well, unbeknownst to many, you can still apply for more financial aid after you've been accepted! For example, if a parent suddenly becomes unemployed, or your parents even get divorced, you can apply for more money from the government as well as from your school. Many schools also offer various scholarships throughout the year to enrolled students. Applying to these can be easy and super beneficial. This is really helpful because it could make the next four years much easier on you and your parents! No one wants to suffocate under all those student loans when they graduate. And remember it can't hurt to ask for more, many school set aside funds for students who end up not enrolling, leaving extra money for those who ask!
The end of high school is the end of an era, but also the beginning of a new and amazing time in your life. Enjoy your last summer before it's time to start looking for internships and other responsibilities. Don't stress about all the things you have on your agenda before going away to school! It's important to make sure you spend time with your family and friends... maybe they'll even come with you to Bed, Bath and Beyond!
