Ahh, freshman year. A time that’s new, exciting, and nerve-wracking at the same time. We know the feeling. And we probably made all of the most common mistakes: didn’t ask questions, Facebook, dropped classes too late, Instagram, a little bit of Snapchat of course, and who could forget TikTok?
Here are 15 ways to avoid these slip-ups and make the most out of your freshman year:
1. Know where to go if you have a question
Those neon flyers you get at orientation will probably come in handy. Know the offices on your campus, don’t just know where they are, really know them. Be proactive about scheduling an appointment with your academic counselor––don’t wait until you’re struggling in one of your classes to visit their office and introduce yourself.
2. This is an important year for your GPA
You want to start off strong and set the bar high. Remember, your GPA is cumulative. The closer you are to graduation, the harder it is for your GPA to increase. While the selection of classes can be exciting, be cognizant of how many units you take for your first few semesters and make sure not to overload yourself.
3. Take advantage of your student status
Going to the movies? Student discount. Eating at a restaurant around campus? Student discount. Public transportation? Student discount. Take advantage of them while you can. Her Campus lists a number of stores and restaurants that allow discounts for being a college student. Make sure to check out other websites like Unidays and Student Beans to get great online discounts for a variety of popular retailers once you verify your student status.
4. Get involved!
Joining a student organization, getting a job or volunteering are all gateways to enriching your college experience and expanding your social network. Make sure to find opportunities and programs on campus that align with your interests, but also don’t forget to try new things!
5. Find ways to cope with the downsides of independence or remote learning.
Wait, no one is pushing me to go to class? My high school crew is now either back home or in other states? Too far to travel back for Mom’s famous lasagna? Independence might not be all bells and whistles, so be prepared for the transition. Start building a support system on campus. Keep in touch with old friends through social media. Set that REALLY annoying ringtone as your alarm clock. Set clear goals for yourself and find a routine that works for you so you can make sure you’re staying on track to graduate.
6. Master the difference between studying in high school vs in college
Time to step your study game up. More pages to read and quizzes to take in less time. Expect to have multiple exams in the same week. No, seriously. Devote time in your schedule to attending office hours and studying at the library. If you really want to get ahead, consider organizing study groups in some of your classes. The work will be challenging, but as long as you stay focused you’ll make it through.
7. Be aware of your financial aid
Don’t avoid this office like the plague. Paying for school is one of the main reasons you can attend, so touch base with your financial aid office early if you have questions.
8. Network with staff and faculty
Remember, it’s who you know as well as what you know. Networking with faculty and staff are perfect for opportunities after graduation. They can lead to recommendations, references, and even a job! Office hours are the perfect time to not only catch up on course material with your professor, but to get to know them better.
9. Be aware of how you learn
Everyone learns differently. And not every professor will teach in the way that allows you to retain the material effectively. Start by taking the time to figure if you learn by listening, watching, reading and writing or by doing, to name a few. It’ll be worth it in the long run. If you’re curious to learn your learning style, check out Discover Your Learning Style.
10. Actually start using a planner
For real though. This is vital for college survival. If you don’t like the one you get at orientation, try popular apps like My Homework Student Planner, My Study Life, or even Google Calendar. Organization is crucial to excelling in school; keep track of due dates and important events so that you can plan ahead.
11. Schedule a time to work and play
Just as you would mark when you’re doing homework, schedule time to free yourself from school. Use this block to hang out with friends, play video games, or whatever mental break you prefer. While studying is super important, you don’t want to burn yourself out. Prioritize your mental health and self care as much as you prioritize your classes.
12. Store important contact information in your phone
Your academic advisor. Campus security. Papa John’s. Get in the habit of putting numbers and email addresses in your phone to prevent yourself from shuffling through hundreds of papers just to find one name.
13. Be conscious of your spending habits
Chipotle is delicious, but four days a week?! You might be able to get away with it in college, but you’re four years away from bills, job searching and more bills. That’s not gonna fly. Starting managing your money responsibly over time before you become a full-fledged adult later. Practice budgeting and allocating yourself a set amount of spending money per month, learn how to ball on a budget!
14. Save your books and notes
You’re in school to learn about a field or career path. There is a good chance you won’t remember every, single fact you learned in four years (plus the spring, summer and winter breaks). Stash your books or notes in the same place at home for future reference. Not to mention any friends who take the class after you will more than appreciate your notes.
15. Make it last!
You can only do freshman year once. While you’re preparing for a bright future, take the time to enjoy the present. Start your journey. Make new friends. Learn. Experience. Make it last! How is your freshman year so far? Do you plan on using any of these tips in the future?