Leaving home and moving to college can be scary for some. I know it was for me last year, but I learned some things along the way that made the transition a lot easier. Here’s a compilation of tips that every college student should at least be aware of whether they be incoming students or returners like me.
1. Be open minded
Don’t have a set plan of who you’re gonna meet and/or what you’re gonna do. Give everyone the same amount of respect you would want them to give you and don’t judge a book by its cover. Talk to them and get to know the person before you decide whether or not to pursue a friendship.
2. Make a schedule and stick with it
Set your alarm for the same time every day and do your daily routine in the same order. It’s okay to sleep in on the weekends or in your spare time but try to have all your assignments done at a reasonable hour and leave time to relax and do things for fun. Yeah, that’s right, you can have fun in college.
3. Spend time with good friends
Once you find a group of friends you enjoy talking to, make plans to watch movies or go out shopping with them. Reach out to them if you need to talk and let it be known they can reach out to you as well. Remind them every now and again how much you appreciate their friendship and you care about their wellbeing.
4. Branch out of your comfort zone
Go to a sporting event you’ve never been to, join different clubs. You’ll never know whether or not you’ll enjoy these things until you try. It’s quite possible you’ll develop strong relationships with people you never thought you would talk to and learn a thing or two about yourself along the way.
5. Find time to exercise
Whether it be through a dance class, walking around campus for an hour, or going to the gym, it’s important to engage in some sort of physical activity at college especially. Exercise relieves stress and anxiety on top of the other health benefits it brings.
6. Don't give into peer pressure
It’s inevitable that your hallmates and other peers will go out drinking on the weekends and/or smoke weed in their rooms. But you don’t have to do the same. If you want to have the occasional drink, or if you want to follow in their footsteps, go ahead. Only do what YOU are comfortable doing.
7. You'll know when you're ready
Aside from drinking and smoking, some of your peers will experience lust at first sight, or just have sex because they want to. If and when you meet someone, you don’t have to put out just to fit in or to make him or her happy. (S)he will wait until you're ready if they really love you.
8. It’s okay to say “No”
Whenever you have a gut feeling that something's not right, or if you just don't want to do something, it's okay to put your foot down and say no. Those who respect you will understand and back off.
9. Check in with loved ones at home
Now don't call Mommy and Daddy whenever you want, but don't leave them high and dry either. Keep in touch with them once a week and let them know how you're doing. Ask them for advice if you need it because theirs is truly the best your gonna get.
10. Only skip class if you desperately need to
Whether it be illness or a family emergency, it's okay to stay in bed or tend to your family. Just email your professor as soon as possible and let him or her know your situation.
11. Take advantage of office hours
When a professor has office hours, it's not just because they have to get extra work done. They want you to ask questions about the material and for you to stay on top of the material.
12. Ask for help if you need it
Independent living is great; however you don't have to go at it alone. Reach out to your friends, family, and/or professors if you need support.
13. Be your own advocate
Speak up when you feel something is wrong and clearly express your boundaries. Have poise and talk highly of yourself to others.
14. Follow your heart
You may think in your head that you know what you want, but your heart could beg to differ. Listen to it and chase after what you believe in, while understanding the risks and potential consequences.
15. Let your conscience be your guide
Trust your instincts and go with your gut. Make the best decisions you can knowing you're a hundred percent comfortable with your decision.
16. Put yourself first
I cannot stress this ENOUGH. Whatever you do, make sure you are happy and healthy. Take personal time away from others as needed and don't be ashamed to blow people off just so you can breathe. ALWAYS REMEMBER TO BREATHE!!
17.There is no need to pack your entire wardrobe
You still need to leave clothes at home and you'll have time to come home and swap out your summer and winter ensembles. Besides, you don't have all that room in the trunk of your car for your clothes AND furniture.
18. Eat balanced meals
Rule number one: you have to eat 2-3 meals a day. Try to have a balance of fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, and protein, allergies permitting.
19. Stop using your phone at night before bed
Bedtime is meant for sleeping, not texting and streaming. You'll have a better shot at falling asleep and STAYING asleep if you lay off your cell phone an hour or two before you plan on getting shut-eye.
