The Dos and Don’ts of Starting College
Starting
college is the beginning of a new chapter in life. Most people look forward to it, but only a few people know how to go about starting it. College is one of those chapters where you have to learn as you go,
developing yourself along the way. There are, however, some pieces of advice that if followed, can help make the college adventure a little bit easier to get
started.
Do buy your books ahead of time.
Many former
students will tell you not to buy your textbooks until classes start, but this
is a recipe for disaster. If you wait to see if you actually need the book,
most bookstores will be sold out when you try to order it. If you are uncertain
about a book, email your professor and they should be able to answer your
questions.
Don’t buy
your books from the college bookstore.
This is a
complete waste of money, as there are tons of places online to get the same
book for much cheaper. The only exception is if the required book is that
college’s edition, in which case you will have a hard time finding it somewhere
else.
Do get
to know your roommate.
If you’re a
shy person, branching out and meeting new people can be challenging. If you’re
going to get close to one person, however, make it your roommate. This person
will be your brother, sister, boyfriend, or girlfriend for the next however many
months. Make sure the two of you are close, as that will be the person
you confide in throughout your time there.
Don’t wait
to find your roommate.
Finding a
roommate can be a daunting task. You will be looking for that person who you
truly “connect” with. While this is important, you don’t want to wait until the
month before school to make that decision, as many people will have already
paired up with someone else. Take advantage of the social networks that your school provides to
talk to new people and get to know someone who might potentially end up living
with you.
Do get
a worthwhile meal plan.
Many
students may take the cheap road when it comes time to choose your meal plan; don’t
make this mistake. Colleges typically have multiple different plans ranging in
quantity of meals per week, or will have some form of dollar system on a card
that you can reload. Make sure you purchase one that will fit your eating
habits, otherwise you might be rationing throughout the semester.
Don’t spend
your meals too quickly.
It can be
tempting to go get a meal every time you’re bored. The problem, however, is
that by the time the end of the semester rolls around, there’s nothing left on
your plan and you’re stuck rationing or resorting to the college student gourmet meal: Ramen Noodles. Many colleges have a guide of how much should be in your
account as you move through the semester and following these guides can help tremendously.
Do get
involved with your school.
There are so
many students that go to college, do their work, and maybe go to a few parties
without getting involved with the school itself. There are a million clubs and
activities to partake in, many of which can be entertaining or beneficial. National
clubs like the AMA and AFA can be fun in school, but also look great on a resume.
A quick visit to the activity center can provide a glimpse of what is offered. Also, don’t
rule out sororities and fraternities, as they can be an essential part of your college's story, although they do tend to take up quite a bit of time.
Don’t become
overloaded.
Participating
in clubs, groups, Greek life, and other activities is a great way to be a part
of your college’s community and meet new people. Keep in mind, though, that
your coursework shouldn't take a seat on the back burner as you run for
president of the Fashion and Design club. Only join the things that are
most important (and useful) to you.
Do go
out and have fun.
While
college is a place of higher education, massive amounts of studying can really
take a toll on a person’s body, mind, and overall happiness. Make sure to
unwind with friends by going out on the town, grabbing a bite to eat, and doing
things that you enjoy.
Don’t make
going out an every night thing.
Having a good
time in college is important, but if you make a habit of hitting the bars every
night and going out during the day, two major things will begin to suffer: your
wallet, and your grades. Make sure to give yourself ample time to study and get
things done. Don’t forget the real reason you’re going to school.
By following
tips like these, entering the college lifestyle can be slightly less stressful.
Each college experience is different, and it’s your job to make your experience
unique in its own way. If you have any tips, stories, or way to ease the college
transition, feel free to comment them below!
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