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Nothing is quite as exciting or rewarding than beginning your freshman year of college. As a freshman you may be looking forward to making new friends, being a member of exciting clubs, and soaking in a completely new social environment, you shouldn’t neglect the reason you’re really there—to learn and to acquire skills you will need to become gainfully employed.
These five good college habits will help you get organized, get ready, and make your freshman year of college a success.
Attend Freshman Welcome Activities
Many US college campuses hold what is known as Welcome Week. New students are invited the week prior to fall semester classes beginning. This week allows you to get to know your roommate, meet other freshmen, know your class schedule, and get more familiar with the campus. Activities often involve lots of fun, fellowship, pizza, and a chance to get to know one another and dispense with any first-day jitters. Participating in these activities is important and will help you start your freshman year of college right.
Walk Through Your Schedule
It is best to do this before classes actually begin, so if you aren’t living on-campus, stop by during summer break with your class schedule and walk through it. Go from one classroom to the next. Make sure you have enough time to get the necessary materials, textbooks, and walking time in-between classes. Check the weather before you set out. You do not want to be caught outside with a heavy backpack in a downpour between buildings on opposite sides of the campus.
Get Up at the Same Time Every Day
Start this habit now, as a freshman, before you need it as a senior. Just because you’re not at home anymore doesn’t mean you still can’t wake up at the same time every day. This gets your body used to morning classes, keeps your energy level steady, and gives you a sense of routine in what could be a foreign and intimidating environment. While you may not have to wake up before 7:00 AM as you did in high school, you should definitely try and get out of bed before noon.
Study a Little Every Day
You may have heard all sorts of interesting anecdotes about students cramming for midterms or finals. But the fact is, it isn’t as exciting as it sounds. Moreover, that isn’t what makes a student successful. Set aside about fifteen minutes every day to go over notes, syllabi, assignments, and project requirements from your classes. A little every day is better than trying to cram the night before an exam.
Seek Help When You Need It
Whether you’re struggling in a class or something major is going on in your personal life, campuses have many resources for students who need assistance, whether it’s counseling, a study group, or just friendly advice from your advisor. Don’t try to go it alone. Seeking help when you need it is a sign of strength, not weakness. Check with the school’s student resources on their website. Or, check out the campus resources center to see what options may be available to you.
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