While college is very exciting, it can also prove to be intimidating. For many it is a time to further their education while also learning very important life skills. Read on to find some strategies to help you keep your life in balance as you’re learning.
Get to know your campus before classes begin. Determine how long it takes you to travel from one spot to the next, and map a route. Scout out other important locations you’ll need to know, and circle them on a map.
Before you make your final decision on which college to attend, thoroughly research your intended major and career choice. This will allow you to know what college has the classes you must take so you’re able to get a degree that gets you into the field of your choice. If you are unsure, you can make an appointment to meet with an admissions counselor beforehand.
If possible try to live for your first year in campus housing. By taking advantage of room and board you can give yourself more of a chance to focus on getting accustomed to the campus and community. Then in following years you will have a better idea of where you might prefer to live on your own.
Make sure you take care of yourself when you are away at school, get plenty of rest, drink plenty of water, and try to eat three meals a day. This will keep your sharp as a tack and ready to tackle even the hardest term paper that your professor throws at you.
Taking classes is important but you should also find some kind of activities you can do on campus. All colleges have a lot of clubs or teams you can join, but you could also volunteer for an association or even start your own club. You will be able to add this experience on your resume.
One of the smartest ways to study during your college career is to purchase index cards and use them as flashcards. On these cards, make sure that you write all of the important terms and use them to study. Also, these cards are mobile as you can bring them anywhere you want during the day.
Student organizations and associations aren’t just about looking good to a prospective employer. Participation can benefit students as well, both emotionally and socially. You’ll find others who share your interests and can explore more of your options on the campus. You might also gain insight into whether or not your chosen major is the best decision.
If you feel your schedule can handle it, take an additional class during each semester. Many students can easily handle the average class load, which means that adding in one more class will be a minor burden at best. This can allow you to shorten your time in college enough to graduate a little earlier.
You don’t have to be a great student to get scholarships. There are scholarships that are specifically designed for average to below average students. These scholarships are often available through your school. Talk to your financial aid advisor to learn more about these types of scholarships and how to apply for them.
Make a commitment to your education. If you go into school thinking of it like a big party, then that’s exactly what you’ll get out of it. And you more than likely won’t last the four years. A lot of money is being spent on your education, so you need to commit yourself to your success.
Don’t be afraid to have fun when you are away at college. You should also limit the time in which you party. There is always time for a party after you get your studying done. Remember you are not there just to party and you will end up being disappointed in yourself if you ruin your chance to make a mark in life by wasting it going to parties and skipping out on class.
If you’re going to live in the dorm, take just what you need. Most dorm rooms are small, and just a small amount of “stuff” can make a big mess. Bring only the basics with you. There are many clever storage containers and compact multipurpose dorm room items.
Go shopping for essentials about a month before you go away to school. Get everything you think you need, and then you will have time to think about things you might have needed and have time to go to the store to pick them up before you leave. Early preparation is the key!
With any luck, you now have a firm grasp of the fundamentals of college and how you can balance your priorities. Keep the information here in mind to help make your college years more easy to traverse so that you can be a success.
