Woohoo! You made it, you graduate, you. College can be some of the best years of your life but it’s a bit of a learning curve, so listen to those who have come and did it before you. Here are some tips to make the best of these years ahead of you!
1. Have Multiple Friend Groups
When College first starts, people are really eager and tend to make friends quickly. Try to avoid putting all your eggs in one basket. The first friends you make don’t always last, so don’t pass up opportunities to meet new people.
2. Be Social
No, I’m not saying you have to go crazy every night (yes, some people do) but get outside your comfort zone! Now is the time to try new things and figure out what you like and don’t like.
3. Make A Budget
You’ll be surprised at how much more college costs than High School. People want to go out all the time, Uber rides, food, drinks, school supplies, shopping, and more! Many people overspend when they first get to college. Try to avoid that by making a budget and sticking to it.
4. Get A Physical Agenda
Get an agenda and WRITE STUFF DOWN! Got an exam in two months? Write it. Got an appointment in two days? Write it. One of the things that makes college more difficult is it forces you to keep track of your own things, and time manage. So many people miss things like assignments because professors don’t remind them about assignments every day like in High School.
5. Develop Study Habits
You are in an all new setting so you have to create all new habits. Personally, I never studied in my dorm room. Forcing myself to go to a study room or the library really enforced accountability and made me feel better about my living space because I didn’t associate it with stress. Experiment with different study techniques to find what works best for you.
6. Build Relationships With Your Professors.
Even just introducing yourself on the first day of school makes a difference. Beyond that, take the initiative to attend office hours and actively participate in class. Building relationships with your professors can lead to mentorship, recommendation letters, and valuable insights.
7. Explore Your Interests
Even if you go into college knowing what you want to do in life, you are still so young and college is a time for self-discovery and exploration. Take courses outside of your major, join new clubs, and engage in new experiences to broaden your horizons and discover new passions.
8. Set Personal Boundaries
Establish clear boundaries for yourself in dating and social interactions. Know your limits and communicate them effectively. Your comfort and safety is always the most important thing.
9. Be Smart, Be Safe
College is full of YOLO moments but you aren’t invincible and there are real consequences for your actions. If you choose to drink alcohol or engage in substance use, do so responsibly and in moderation. Use the buddy system, have a designated driver, and don’t make rash decisions. Always prioritize your safety and well-being.
10. Enjoy The journey
College is a time of growth and self-discovery. Embrace the academic, dating, and social experiences as part of the overall college experience. Pick your battles, have fun, make memories, and learn from each interaction. You got this!
