Going to college is an experience that will help you shape your personality and build a better future for yourself. It is important that you think about your decision carefully, compare different schools and programs and find a way to finance your education. Read this article to learn more about college.
Don’t try to do everything in one semester. It’s easy to be an overachiever when there’s so much to do and everything’s new. You will burn out quickly if you try to take the maximum number of credits and join every campus activity that sounds interesting. Take a reasonable number of credits and try one or two activities your first semester.
Socialize in moderation. Socialization is an important part of the college experience. Just remember to balance visiting friends and keeping your grades up. It can be easy to lose track of time and procrastinate. Save late night outings for nights when you do not have class the very next day.
Do not fall into the credit card company’s tricks where they give you a credit card. These cards have high interest rates, and they aim to prey on college students who have no money. There are many instances in which college student’s default on these cards because they understandably have no money to pay them back.
A credit card is often necessary, particularly if you are going to school far away from home. However, be smart about your decision. Research your options and select a card that has a low interest rate. Also, make sure there aren’t any annuals fees and don’t be tempted by high credit limits. Those are just a recipe for disaster.
Student’s discounts are one of the best perks of college, especially if you need to save money. Check with your student resource center or ask an adviser for a list of perks. Many local restaurants, movie theaters and bookstores offer generous discounts when you present a student ID. This allows you to save money and show school pride.
You should be respectful of your roommate’s wishes. You need to learn how to work with him or her so that it makes your time easier. Sit down when you first get to school and find out what you both expect out of a roommate so you can both be happy.
Talk to your professors. Things are a little different when you get to college. Your teachers are more approachable, and you can talk to them during their office hours. This gives you more time to ask questions, but you can also learn more about what drives them. They can help you with ideas for your career after you are done with college as well.
Once you know what your major is, get to know the professionals in that department. They will be able to advise you and give you valuable information in how to meet your desires. Their experience will prove invaluable as you continue. Furthermore, if you have any problems, they will be able to help you.
Do research on your intended major. Before declaring your major, do the research to learn if your choice is feasible. Look at current and projected job prospects for those with that major. Furthermore, look at the future expected earnings, and the types of fields’ people with your intended major usually go into. What you find may surprise you.
Spend some time in the school library. There are many things available in the library that can help you with classes. Get familiar with the library staff and they can help you immensely. They also have resources for procuring or selling used textbooks.
Make sure you take time for breaks. Breaks are important during study sessions. For every one hour that you spend studying, give yourself a short break of at least ten minutes. Make a schedule and abide by it.
During the orientation phase, be sure to attend several social events that you can meet new people. A lot of people don’t know anyone and can start to feel lonely. When you meet people early on, you’ll feel like you belong quicker.
Many students take advantage of credit card offers while away at school, especially if they aren’t employed. Unfortunately, this just sets you up for massive debt and damaged credit. Even low introductory rates are just that–introductory. Fees and balances add up quickly, creating a dangerous situation. If you absolutely must have a credit card, stick with only one card.
It is now time for you to start thinking about your future and make some educated decisions. If you need help, go to a career counselor or schedule an appointment with an academic adviser from the school you are interested in. You will get the best from your college experience if you choose the right school and the right program.
