Going off to college is a whole new world. It is an exciting adventure where you are the captain of your own ship and the responsibilities for how it goes depend on your choices. The information in this article can help you get your college career off to a winning start.
When going to college, ensure you carry enough toiletries with you. These are very important and will run out quickly with all of the times that you will be using them. Consider buying in bulk as a means to save money.
You should not consider going to college unless you have a good idea of the kind of career you want or at least have a general idea. Meet with a career counselor to find out more about your different options and take the time to do some research about different schools and programs.
A good tip if you’re thinking about going to college is to get all of your general education out of the way. This means that you take your basic classes at a community college so that when you’re finally at college, you’re able to take good classes that are worth the money.
It is important that you map out your first day at school before your actual first day. You need to find out what free time you have in between classes and how you will get form place to place. ` Include other resources, like student aid and the cafeteria, on your map for ease of use.
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.
Don’t spend your money on coffee every morning. Coffeehouses charge too much. Make instant coffee or get a small maker. It’s not as convenient, but it will save you quite a bit of money. A good coffee maker can be purchased for a low price if you shop around.
Hang out in your college’s library. College libraries contain all kinds of resources that can help you succeed in every single class you can take. Get to know the librarian, she will be able to direct you toward the necessary study materials to successfully complete the necessary coursework. There may also be a place where you can find textbooks advertised for sale.
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.
If money is tight, and your choice is to either take out a loan or leave school, the smart choice is always to get a loan. Even though this may put you in the lurch temporarily and add to your current burdens, if you have chosen your major wisely, it will increase your earning power. You should be able to pay your loan back with your increased earnings. Leaving school is a sure way to guarantee low earning power for life.
Get to know the people in the financial aid office. If you make friends with them, they will appear more friendly to you. Then, when you have questions, they can assist you more easily. While they are all professionals, it never hurts to grease the social wheels when it comes to your financial needs.
Try to take advantage of the shuttle system that is on campus, which can help you get from place to place. This system can save you a lot of time and money if you are good with timing and can save your parents money on a car for you the first couple of years.
Avoid the urge to overeat if you are living at the dormitory. Most schools offer up a buffet-style selection with a wide variety of selections that can be tempting, but overeating can lead to health issues as well as take away from the energy needed to focus on your academics.
Consider getting a part time job on campus. This will allow you to earn a little bit of your own money rather than having to ask your parents for money all the time. You will also learn a little bit about balancing work and other obligations and getting along with your boss and coworkers.
If dragging yourself out of bed at 6:00 am is impossible, don’t torture yourself with 7:00 am classes. Most schools offer classes in a wide range of time slots. Take advantage of the classes later in the day and in the evening if you aren’t a morning person. You will be more likely to go and will get more out of the course.
Does the thoughts of leaving home scare you? Then consider taking a few online college courses to help build your confidence. There are also community colleges, which allow you to live home and commute to college. This will permit you to still have time with your family while getting an education.
As you have just read, college is not just an academic achievement, it is also a memorable adventure. Buy keeping the tips for the article in mind, you will have be able to juggle the responsibilities of college better and achieve more while still finding time to make friends, have a social life and create memories to last a lifetime.
