So, you have made the decision that now is the time to start college. You probably have many questions running through your mind right now, which is totally normal. The following article is going to give you advice to help ease the confusion you may feel about your upcoming college life.
When you are about to take a big exam, make sure you eat an adequate breakfast but keep it a little light. Don’t go into a test hungry, or you’ll have a lot of trouble concentrating. Do not overeat either; however, so you don’t have to deal with an upset stomach.
Make the effort to get to know each of your instructors. Use office hours to visit each instructor at least once during the term. If the instructor is teaching a class in your major or intended major, spend more time in office hours. When you need a letter of recommendation, it will be easier if your instructors know you.
You are living by yourself and making your own food. Be sure you’re eating things that are healthy, that you keep your things tidy, and you sleep enough. Also, make a schedule to stay as organized as possible. Poor eating habits and stress can make you ill.
During college, there are going to be classes that you realize are too difficult from the onset as you should drop these immediately. These classes can put a lot of stress on you, as you would be better off with an alternative. Also, a different teacher may be able to explain the material better.
Try to take advantage of your college’s resources at all times, as you should visit the counseling center if you are feeling overwhelmed. The people in this center can help you to get back on the right path and make sure that you do not dig a hole that is too deep during your stay.
Consider living in a dorm room during your first year at college. While it’s not as fashionable as having your own apartment, it’s a great way to become more involved in campus life. You’ll be close to other students, making you more likely to make new friends and avoid the loneliness of living alone.
Use the many resources of the library. It is a great place to study, read and relax. When you really need to concentrate, the quiet of the library is a great place to escape the activity of the dorm. The library is also where you can find the most comfortable chairs on campus.
If you have a coffee habit, refrain from buying a cup every morning. It is just too much money. Make coffee yourself. You are going to save a lot of cash, even if it isn’t as convenient as buying it. Getting a good coffee machine for cheap is easy if you just browse around for one.
If you were someone who hated high school, you just might actually love college. College classes are geared towards your major and the material is much more interesting than the standard material taught in high school. Many adult students who once did horrible in high school find themselves graduating college with high honors.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you feel overwhelmed, stressed out or depressed during your freshman year. Most colleges offer free therapy or counseling to students; take advantage if you need it. Adjusting to college can be difficult and stressful, so don’t be ashamed to admit you can’t handle it as well as you thought you would.
Flip-flops aren’t just for politicians! Be sure to wear your flip-flops every time you use the dorm shower. They will protect you from getting athletes foot; however, don’t stop there. Be sure to dry your feet thoroughly after showering and use a medicated powder. Pay special attention to the area between your toes. Be sure to store your flip-flops in such a way that they will dry thoroughly between uses. For example, you could hang them over a hanger in your closet if there is enough room for air circulation.
Carefully consider each purchase, big and small. If you are paying for tuition with student loans, paying them off should be your top priority. Don’t waste your money on pizza, clothing and entertainment–at least not all of it. Sock away as much as possible to repay those loans. Otherwise, you will be swimming in even more debt by the time you graduate.
Try to get involved in some kind of extracurricular activity. By playing intramural sports or getting involved in a club or performance group, you give yourself a chance to balance out the stress of spending hours on academics. Having a balance in your schedule can keep you feeling fresh and positive as you progress through the school year.
In conclusion, once you have decided to attend college, you may feel confused about what to expect now. But, now that you have read the above article, some of that confusion should be lifted off your shoulders. Use these tips to let college be the best period of your life.
