I'm procrastinating writing my papers right now so with graduation right around the corner- I thought it would be fun to post up tips about how I survived college. I honestly wish I had someone tell me this my freshman year before figuring it out on my own :P
1. See your adviser every quarter/semester!
I cannot stress this enough! I visited my adviser every quarter to make sure that I was taking the right classes and on the right track to graduate. I didn't want to waste my time taking classes I didn't need. When I was a freshman, I had no idea what I was doing and my adviser really helped map out everything for me. You don't want to be that person who thinks you got everything right and find out that you're missing units and can't graduate. Trust me- I've seen it happen to other people! Don't let it happen to you!
2. Bring snacks
College is so different from high school. You may have a class in the morning and then a huge 3-4 hour gap till your next class. Make sure to bring snacks with you to keep you from passing out. Buying food on campus can get pretty pricy so bring your own!
3. Learn how to use Google Doc!
No matter what your major is, you can't escape group projects! Whether you're taking a GE course or a upper division- group projects are the absolute worst. Be sure to learn how to use google doc! Google doc allows you to share documents with other people and everyone can edit on the page. You can open up word documents and presentation slides.
4. Get involved on Campus
There are tons of clubs on campus to join. You'll get to meet tons of new people and make friends! College is harder to meet people, so be sure to hang out and find the right club for you. But hey-clubs aren't for everyone. Its okay if you don't join anything.
5. Exercise!
DO NOT fall into the Freshman 15 trap! Walk to your classes and resist the tempting delicious foods on campus! Most schools have gyms that are FREE for students. Take advantage of that!
6. Make sure your professors know your name and face!
This will come in handy when they're grading. Going to office hours and saying hello to them makes a world difference. They'll know you're trying and help you succeed. Don't be afraid to ask them questions.
7. If you don't succeed, try again.
It's okay if you get a bad grade, retake the class. It's not the end of the world. I once thought it was but I didn't let it get to me.
8. LIVE IT UP
It's college! Don't be afraid, live your life! Do as many things as you can. Go to concerts, go bar hopping, go to campus events, go on a road trip! There's nothing stopping you. You will never be as young as you are today. Take advantage of this time.
Best of luck to you! x
