Recently I started my first day of college. If any of you high schoolers think that the High School experience is remotely similar to College, then you are completely wrong! I was completely unprepared and unaware of the commotion that is College. So, here are 11 Things not to do on your first day of college.
1. Don't sleep in!
I don’t care how late your class is or how much time you have in between classes. DO NOT SLEEP UNTIL YOUR DAY IS DONE! I cut it way to close on my first day and almost missed a class. I promise you, your Professor won’t take it well after the first day of class.
2. Make sure to eat breakfast.
If you think you can go all day without eating breakfast, be my guest to try. But I and many other college students can tell you that nothing is worse than running around campus on an empty stomach. I fell asleep because I didn’t eat in class. I’m not sure how it will affect you, but just make sure you eat. No matter how small the breakfast.
3. Always have your books!
This one needs no explanation. Always buy your books before hand. You might actually need them on the first day. Plus there's also a chance that the books you need won’t be there.
4. Shower early.
Again, explainable. I go to a small school and this morning there was a line for the freshman girls bathroom for my hall. Granted, one shower is broken, it’s still kind of annoying when you have to skip a shower because you want to make it to breakfast and make it to class on time.
5. Dress for comfort and class.
The first day of classes, I showed up in soccer shorts and a t-shirt and was honestly embarrassed to meet my Intro German teacher. Yes, for some of you this might be your first time not wearing a uniform to school. But, please, at least look presentable. I couldn’t describe how embarrassed I was walking in looking as lazy as I looked.
6. Don’t expect a free day!
I thought that since it was the first day of College, it would be like the first day of High School. No homework, introductions, and a lot of messing around. I was wrong. I received homework the first day. A TON of homework. I still haven’t finished it.
7. Don’t sit in the far back of the class.
The best thing to do on your first day is to sit in the front. One, you are establishing to your Professor that you want to learn and are willing to learn in their class. Plus, it makes paying attention in the class ten times easier.
8. Pack everything you need for class.
Going back to your dorm in between classes takes too much time. Plus no teacher is going to let you go back to your dorm for a book you left. Always make sure you grab everything on your way out so you’re ready for the day.
9. Lock your dorm room.
Again,explanatory. A lot of people get robbed because they ran out too quickly. Remember to always lock your dorm room on the way out.
10. Meet new people.
It’s great meeting new people. Make new friends in your classes and during your meals. I promise it will make college way more enjoyable.
11. Build relationships with your professors.
If you want to do well in your classes, please go talk to your professors after your classes. I promise they will appreciate you explaining your interests and concerns with them and like you more. They will be more likely to help you with questions and tutoring too!
So these are a few points to help you with your first day! Enjoy, and remember stay focused. These next four years can either be the worst or best years of your life.
