Getting halfway through my college career has taught me a lot. Some things are common sense, they are just hard to put into practice. Other things are just learned along the way. There is no manual of getting through college, and no one way is the right way. But here are a few things that I have learned along the way.
1. Your professors do not care if you are sick, hungover, or just don't want to show up to class.
Showing up to class is on you. If you are too sick or too hungover, no one is going to miss you. Same goes for the days you just don't want to go to class. It is up to you if you miss or not, just try to not let it get out of control.
2. Working in a group will either really help your grade or kill it.
There are going to be some group members that are amazing and you would never trade for the world. Keep in touch with these individuals if you are ever in the same classes again. Then there are the other group members that will never help no matter what. Just remember, you can't fix stupid, but is sure doesn't help your GPA.
3. You have to make a name for yourself on your own.
When it comes to classes that are for your major, it is up to you to make an impression on your professors. It is likely that you will have these professors again and getting on their good side early will help you in the long run. They are also the ones with connections to the rest of the world. If they like you, it is easy to get internships and jobs.
4. No one is going to help you if you don't ask for it.
When it comes to working on big projects or just understanding the material, no one is going to hold your hand through it. It is up to you to go and ask for that help on your own. If that is is with other people in the class, the TA or the professor, any help can be very beneficial in the long run.
5. Get involved.
College is more than just showing up to class and trying to get good grades. Getting involved with organizations will help build up soft skills that are needed for future jobs.
6. Losing your planner is losing your life.
Keeping a planner is almost a requirement. Keeping track of due dates and important events is the easy part. But when it comes to losing your planner, your life is already out the door. So keep ahold of that planner and never, NEVER, lose it anywhere.
7. No one is in charge of yourself other than you.
College is the time of your life that you start figuring out things on your own. there is no more asking if you can go anywhere or if you have to stay in. That is all up to you.
College is a fun time. It is also a hard time. But the bast way to get through college is to put your best foot forward. There will be crappy times and there will be unforgettable times. Just do what you feel you need to do to succeed.
