Preparing for college
College survival tips
The Transition to College…
When going to college leaving your comfort zone can be kind of scary. Many students overlook stressful situations that they are about to encounter. The more prepared you are for these new changes the better off you will be. Below are some hints that may help you when faced with these new realities:
Yes, the work Is harder
The college courses you will be taking are more in-depth than what you experienced in high school. You will learn information faster, have more reading, writing, and problem sets to complete. Also, professors are going to expect you to complete assignments outside of class on your own time rather than in class.
So what’s your plan?!
Take classes that you can handle. Don’t get behind because you overloaded your schedule with too many challenging classes. This will allow you to stay on-top of your studies to enable you to gradually adjust to your new academic atmosphere.
You make the schedule
Its your responsibility to go to class and complete your assignments. Your parents won’t be there waking you up to be on time and your teachers will not be there reminding you that you have assignments to complete. So in the end it will be on your shoulders if your grades suffer.
So what’s your plan?!
Make sure to get a planner or calendar and write down all your classes, when you have meetings, when assignments are due, and when exams will be given. This way you will be able to manage your time and make sure you get in enough studying before exams.
You are completely independent
You will not be surrounded by people you know, guiding you throughout your day. People won’t be there to help you manage your money, make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating healthy and other stress factors like: late night parties and pushing yourself over the limit.
So what’s your plan?!
Don’t take the easy way out! Be smart and make smart decisions. Make a budget so you can manage your money. You don’t want to be forced to sell your books to buy food! As for eating and sleeping listen to your body, eat healthy and make sure to get enough sleep. You will need all the energy that you can get to make the best of your college experience.
A new social scene
You are entering into a new social scene where no one knew who you were in high school. There will be new social pressures and opportunities surrounding you.
So what’s your plan?!
This is going to be a time where you will form many new friendships which can be overwhelming at times, but remember lasting friendships take a long time to develop. So in the beginning remember that it may be a lonely time. Don’t put yourself in a scene that you feel uncomfortable. If you’re unsure about certain social situations, talk to old friends, parents, and counselors on campus (that’s what they are there for!).
Reprinted from: http://collegeboard.com/student/plan/college-success/963.html
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