Everyone comes to college thinking that they now rule the world. They don't need any help from anyone; they are now free to do as they please, and that is exactly what they shall do. This is so WRONG.
In order to thrive in college, everyone must have a stable group of friends, colleagues and supporters behind them. It is not enough to do it on your own, because connections are what makes you successful. After all, college is more than just getting good grades. It's about participating and actively being a part of your campus.
By keeping in touch with these 10 people, you will be sure to have a successful college experience.
Your Advisor
This is not just the person whose job it is to make your schedule out for you semester after semester. Your advisor is your lifeline when it comes to what classes you should take, what counts and really anything dealing with your major. They were placed as your advisor for a reason, because they know more about your major than you could ever hope to.
To the students who complain endlessly about their advisor not being nice, courteous and helpful: Has it ever occurred to you that maybe you aren't being very courteous and responsive to them? Don't just go to their office when you have to, make the effort to really get to know them. They are more help than you give them credit, I promise.
The "Cool" Teacher
Everyone has the teacher they think is the coolest on campus. Maybe they teach in your department, or maybe they teach the random freshman level class you're taking, but they are so cool and unlike any of your high school teachers that you almost want to be them. However, most students are too intimidated to actually go up and speak to this teacher.
If you really think that highly of them, by all means TALK to them. Let them know you really enjoy their class and personality. Schedule office hours to just come by and chat. Teachers like to know that they are liked; everyone does. Really get to know this teacher, because who knows? Maybe they write your recommendation for graduate school one day or help you get your dream job.
The Executive Board of Your Sorority/Fraternity President
These are people who you need to know because they are the head of a social club that you pay a lot of money to be in. It would be nice to know these people on a friendly basis. They are more than likely really cool and really nice, being that they were elected by a large group of students to run the sorority/fraternity.
Sometimes you're going to have a problem - be it money or information on an event that is going on - and it will make your life easier to feel comfortable around these people. After all, they are your sisters/brothers!
Your RA OR Apartment/House Manager
For all you dorm dwellers, knowing and getting along with your RA is imperative to a happy living experience. Especially as a freshman, because this person really is your go-to guy/gal for all things residence life. If you need something fixed, or need someone to talk to, your RA is the person you can always go to. Being able to foster a friendly relationship with this person will help you to not only know where to go when your sink breaks or your roommate is getting on your nerves but also when you really just need someone to talk to.
For all you apartment/house renters, it is just as important for you to know the manager of your house or apartment. The people control your rent, the condition of your living space and your security deposit. You do not want to be on the bad side of these people. Once you move in, make your face know at the apartment office. Bake some cookies; it isn't cheesy, it's ingenious. It really shows that you are thankful for the roof over your head, and it will help you in the long run. It might help you get that hot water heater fixed faster, or some leeway when you just can't pay rent that month. Be grateful for these people, and they will return the favor.
The Research Librarian
If one thing is constant in every college major, it is the research paper. Whether it be two outside sources or 20, they better be cited correctly, or you could face serious repercussions. On every college campus, there is one person whose job it is to help with the research paper, and that is the research librarian. They are skilled in the way of research, and they are an invaluable source when it comes to the paper you waited until two nights before it is due to write.
It is not enough to just stop by whenever you want; that is no way to get the best service from anyone. Go ahead and get this librarian's card. Email him/her once you find out the topic of your paper and ask to schedule a meeting. Be courteous and listen to every thing they have to say. It is their job to help you, but it would be in your best interest to help them as much as you can and be nice, courteous and grateful to them, because they will have a good deal to do with the A you will make on your paper!
Of course there are other people you will meet and need to keep around during your college career, but these five people really can help you soar and succeed during these four years. These are the people who aren't just there for you academically, but for almost any problem you might run into. Be it roommate problems, class scheduling issues, research paper dilemmas or even a recommendation letter snaffoo, these are the people who can help you solve these problems and make your four years in college a smooth ride.
