Arriving at college for the start of freshman year can be both exciting and scary. Your first task is making friends and you’ll find many opportunities. The first few weeks for residential freshmen are non-stop socializing. Resident Advisors will host pizza parties to help you get to know your hall-mates. Students leave their doors open and everyone visits at all hours.
If you aren’t sure about a major, take courses in a variety of subjects and try to choose classes based on the professor’s reputation. A great teacher makes any subject fascinating. If a class you really want is full, talk to the professor. Teachers love enthusiastic students and you may find that a space opens up. You’ll also have made a great first impression.
Students who are successful and happy in college are engaged, meaning they interact with professors and students and they participate in campus life. Most colleges have activity fairs at the start of the school year at which you can learn about all the clubs on campus. Whether you love singing, hiking or community service, you’ll find people who share your passion. Joining a club is a great way to create a feeling of community, especially important at a big university.
Everyone feels homesick at some point. You realize how much you miss your family, friends, dog, even your house. Add the stress of midterms and sleep deprivation, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The counseling center is a great resource. Their staff sees many students who are having trouble adjusting to college; talking to someone experienced can really help.
Minimize stress. Even seemingly small things, like keeping your room clean, can impact mood. Exercise helps you stay mentally as well as physically healthy, and many colleges have athletic facilities that rival any fancy health club.
Creating a structure that provides time to study and sleep is another way to take care of yourself. You’ll probably spend about 15 hours a week in class. Set up a schedule for studying and you can get much of your work done during the day and have some evenings for fun. When it comes to studying, it’s much easier to keep up than to catch up.
It is important to go to ALL classes, even though in large lectures, no one may care if you show up. Sit up front and you’re less likely to doze off. After each class, read your notes and clarify anything you didn’t understand. Good notes are very helpful at exam time.
If you’re struggling in a class, ask for help. Professors have office hours, and most of them are delighted when students show an interest in their subject. Even if you don’t have a question about the class, stop by and introduce yourself. Knowing and being known by your professors will help you feel part of the community.
College is a fresh start. Nobody knows if you were the most popular student in your high school or the class nerd. This is your chance to become the person you want to be. Sure, it can be scary, but the payoff can also be wonderful!
