Things to Know Before Starting College
Coming From an Unprepared College Freshman
Media portrays college as a party ground, the best years of your life, the start of independence. While it can be true, college is difficult in a multitude of ways, financially, mentally, and physically. These are ten things that I have learned over my freshman year of college.
1. Wait until the first day of class to get textbooks.
Many students pay hundreds of dollars in textbooks and don't even use them. Wait until the first day and ask the professor if the book is needed. If possible, rent them or buy them used.
2. If possible, avoid writing in textbooks.
A lot of schools have a buyback option, and it is a good way to get money back from textbooks that have been bought.
3. Do not take early classes if you know that you will not wake up in time.
8 AM lectures are not fun if you are not a morning person. Do yourself a favor and try to get later classes if you like to sleep in, or stay up at night.
4. SLEEP.
Cramming for finals is not the best way to study. If it is 3 AM and you are studying for that biology exam, you won't retain it. Give yourself enough time beforehand to study. Sleep is the most important thing you can do to take care of yourself. Your body will thank you.
5. Learn which studying methods work the best for you.
Some people learn best by reading through the text and summarizing it. Some people learn better by using flashcards. Don't be afraid to play trial and error to see what works best.
6. Do not study in your dorm.
Studying in the dorm will distract you and lead you to procrastination because your bed is right there. Study in a quiet place outside, or the library.
7. Manage your time to be able to socialize.
Schools always have some sort of fun event, and sometimes you just need to give yourself a break. Coming from an introvert, making friends in college is difficult. Events and clubs are a good way to meet new people.
8. Make a To-Do list.
Most schools have an online system to turn in assignments and have a calendar showing what assignments need to be done. This is so helpful, especially when you have six classes and it seems to be pure chaos.
9. Take care of yourself mentally.
College can be completely draining. Make time to relax. There are counseling centers on most campuses and can be extremely helpful.
10. You do not need to know your major right when you start college.
Take the time to go through your options. You have time to go through trial and error. Make a pro/con list and narrow choices down. Do what will ultimately make you happy.
About the Creator
Katie Haselberger
I'm a college student, nursing major, ceramics minor. Weird combination, but hey, it works.
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