While many people understand the importance of college, not nearly as many understand what it takes to succeed in it. Getting a quality education takes some planning and hard work. Like anything in life, those more prepared are more likely to succeed. This article will give you a ton of hints and tips on getting used to being away at college.
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.
Saying no to things that make you uncomfortable is just as important in college as it was when you lived with your parents. Many students experiment with alcohol or sex during their college years, but if you don’t want to do these things, don’t let anyone pressure you into them. Your college experience should be about having fun, exploring who you are and preparing for your future via your classes–not about doing things you don’t truly want to do.
If you can you should open up a bank account at a bank that also has branches in your home town. This way it will be easier for your parents to put money into your account and it be available right away instead of having to wait 3-5 business days.
Why are you attending college? It is important to answer this question for yourself. Are you in college just because it seems like the thing to do? Are you there to just have a college experience? Are you there to learn a specific subject. Carefully evaluate why it is you are attending college and prioritize.
If you are struggling in your classes, ask the professor if there are any tutoring options available. By enlisting the help of a tutor you will normally be able to score better on tests, learn the information better and get a more rounded understanding of the curriculum. If a tutor is not available, ask around on campus. There are many study groups available that are student led.
Do not wait until last minute to study. When you know you have an upcoming test, study a little each night. By waiting to study until the night before your test, you risk burning yourself out. Chances are you will go to take the test and your mind will draw a blank.
Take a break when you’re working or studying. Study breaks are just as important as the studying itself. For every one hour that you spend studying, give yourself a short break of at least ten minutes. Use a timer to let you know when to relax and when to get back to work.
Think about studying abroad. Look at the opportunities offered by the school, but don’t let that box you in. If you want to study in another country, you need to find out everything that is available to you. You might even be able to find something better outside of your school.
Make contacts while you are in school that you can use when you get out. If you really enjoy a particular professor’s class, make an effort to get to know that professor in addition to pushing yourself to become an outstanding student. The contacts you make now will help you establish and move forward in your career in the years to come.
Although electives can be helpful when figuring out your major, you should not entirely rely on them. Become involved on campus. There are many clubs on campus that are always looking for new members. Every week should offer a wide variety of campus activities to choose from. To encourage this form of experimentation, set a goal of trying at least one new activity every week.
Avoid using your financial aid funds to go on a shopping spree at your campus bookstore. This is common, especially among first-year students. When you learn that you have financial aid credit at the bookstore, it is tempting to buy things you don’t really need. Avoid this impulse and your pocketbook will thank you later.
Seek extra help if you fall behind in your classes. It is really easy to fall behind, especially if you were a great student in high school who never had to work that hard. Get the help you need before you start having serious problems, and you will do great.
Find out if your college has a counseling center. These centers staff professional counselors or therapists. They can be an invaluable source of help if you struggle with depression, anxiety, stress or other emotional issues in college. They may also be able to refer you to local resources off-campus, if necessary.
If you can put off choosing your major for a while, think about it. When you first get to college, your general education classes give you a broad experience. You may discover that you actually want a different major than the one you thought you would! So take it slow and decide what you really want.
Never leave candles burning or your lights on when you are the last one out of your dorm. This can be an extreme fire hazard and can endanger all the people in your building. Purchase fake candles, as they can do the trick if you need extra light at night.
Most people know that going to college will help you become smarter and increase your earnings. Yet, college is not always easy, and guidance can be helpful. Remember the information that you have learned here, and make good choices that will keep you on the right path.
