There is no doubt that starting college in general is a pretty scary thing, especially when you don’t know anyone at that school and you might not know that area as well. You go from depending on your parents for money and food to essentially having a crash course in being an adult. Most freshman—myself included—probably resemble Kathy from Finding Nemo, if I’m being honest.
However, there are a few things I’ve learned that I really think would be super beneficial to every incoming freshman, so I hope these tips help at least one student!
One: Do not buy textbooks before you go to the first day of class!
Trust me. I made this mistake in my first year and I lived to regret it. It doesn’t matter who your instructor is. You will 100% not use whatever textbook is required on that first day. Your instructor is not going to expect you to have it on the first day. Not to mention that sometimes even though the bookstore says a book is required, it might be your instructor’s own decision to not use it, which will save you a few bucks in the long run. It’s always better to wait until after the first day to get a feel for the class, your instructor and what is actually required for the course.
Two: Get Involved!
I know you probably are tired of hearing this because everyone says it, but I’m going to say it anyway. You have to get involved. It’s the best way to really give you a great college experience, make some friends, and just really get to know the campus. Truthfully, I wish I would have gotten involved in something my freshman year because it probably would have really helped me adjust and really connect with people. A big part of that for me is getting involved with Her Campus. I feel like I am a part of something and that is one of the best feelings!
Three: Write Out Your Notes
I know it’s just easier to type out your notes on your laptop, but it is so much harder to remember and retain information that way. Whenever you physically write something out, you are so much more likely to remember it. Not to mention the fact that many instructors do not want you using laptops at all. They just want you to write out your notes because, again, they will help you retain the information better and just make studying easier for when that exam comes around.
Four: Time Management Is a Must
I know that this is a skill that even I have struggled with, and it’s something that really ended up hurting me in my freshman year. As tempting as it is watching the next episode of the show you are currently binging on Netflix, you need to resist it and just study. You need to formulate a plan with a study schedule where you carve out time of each day to study. This becomes very easy to do if you aren’t distracted by things in your room, so go to the library, a study lounge, join a study group, whatever you need to do, just find someplace quiet for you to do your homework and study for the upcoming exams. I cannot stress this enough. If you cannot manage your time well, you will struggle in your classes.
Five: Just Have Fun!
As scary as everything can seem with keeping up with classes and learning to navigate campus, it’s just as important to find time to relax and just have some fun. You’re young, you’re in college, and you are building a life for yourself. Hang out with friends, join a club or two, go to the movies, go to concerts, just do whatever makes you happy because college is about having fun while getting your education, so celebrate your independence!