College. What a weird time. You're stressed out from all the crap you have to do, all while simultaneously having the time of your life. It can be confusing. Just when you thought middle school was going to be the worst, college hits you in the face and you wonder... where is Ned Bigby when you need him?
Sure, he helped you out a ton when you were throwing up peace signs and being undeniably awkward in junior high. But, maybe you are still very awkward and need as much help as you can get. Well, look no further. Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide: College Edition is now available! (And it costs a lot less than that book you don't want to buy but are forced to.)
Tips, you need tips. Long and behold, the College Survival Guide.
Tip #1. Don't be intimidated by the girl who has her life together.
There will always be that person that has known exactly what they wanted to be since they were 12. But you, you've gone from astronaut to aerobics instructor to engineer. That's okay! It's alright to change your mind—even though Claire Sawyer, future lawyer, already has everything figured out, that doesn't mean you have to.
Tip #2. Because it's okay if you still don't know what the heck you're doing.
Changed your major? Again? It's okay.
Tip #3. Don't date the first person you meet.
Lots of Freshman meet that person on day one and they stick to each other like glue. You should take time to get to know that other person before you start dating, and you should also get to know yourself before you settle down. College is a new place, so explore! (But hey, if you meet your soulmate day one, go you.)
Tip #4. Make sure to stay organized.
Get a planner. Write every assignment down and plan when and where you're going to do them. Keep everything organized and you'll avoid as much stress as possible.
Tip #5. Always be yourself.
In high school, you might have felt like you had to be somebody else's definition of you. Well, redefine yourself by being your complete self. There are friends for every type of personality. So be you! No matter how crazy you may be.
Tip #6. Pay attention in class.
There are notes, presentations, Powerpoints and reading assignments. If you look over any aspects, you may miss vital information for an exam. (Or you might miss out on cool information you need for your major.)
Tip #7. Don't wait until the last minute.
You may have been able to pull it off in high school, but in college, you must plan ahead. If you wait until the last minute, you're only hurting yourself. Indulge yourself in every assignment, so you can reach your full potential (and get the grade you deserve).
Tip #8. Sometimes you need some Netflix and to stay in for the night.
The schoolwork is stressful. Relax and get the sleep you need. Enjoy that episode of "One Tree Hill."
Tip #9) But when you do go out, make sure to dress to the nines.
Yes. Go out and look bomb. Don't stay in every night because you're scared (if you've never been a party person before). But, don't feel forced to go out! Go if you want, and make sure it's a safe, fun environment. It's okay if you like to stay in, but socializing is a huge part of the college experience.
Tip #10. Especially if you're with your squad.
Always take a friend to a party. Buddy system!
Tip #11. When the therapy dogs come, TAKE ADVANTAGE.
Okay, some schools during finals let therapy pets come visit students. Go. You won't regret it. And, you'll be surprised with how soothing seeing a furry friend is.
Tip #12. Be prepared for anything.
Go to class with your computer, books, paper, pen, anything you may need. It's better to be over-prepared than under-prepared. Professors can tell if you're trying to fake it till you make it. (Beware of pop quizzes.)
Tip #13. Keep an eye on those drinks.
A cliche phrase your parents tell you, but listen to them. You may find yourself at a party with a group of untrustworthy people. So just be extra cautious, and watch you and your friends' drinks.
Tip #14. Beware of 8 a.ms.
I'm serious. They suck.
Tip #15. Especially if it's on a Monday.
They suck.
Tip #16. Don't be that kid that types obnoxiously.
There's always that kid in the library. It seems that no matter how high you turn your headphones, you can still hear it. Don't be that kid.
Tip #17. Get involved.
Employers love to see good grades and extra circulars! Not only that, but it's a great way to meet friends who like the same things you do.
Tip #18. But also, relax. Take some time to do stuff you like.
With a lot of activities, you may feel yourself getting overwhelmed. So, be sure to take time and smell the flowers. You'll thank yourself later.
Tip #19. Wear shower shoes.
Please, please, please. Don't forget them. At first, the showers won't seem so bad.. You might find yourself comparing the showers to Orange is the New Black, but they won't be totally disgusting. And then, suddenly, people don't care anymore. Hair is everywhere, floss is left behind, and you're left staring at something on the floor... (Seriously, what is it?) Put those shoes on, and don't remove them until you're in the safety of your tidy dorm.
Tip #20. Don't be that kid that blasts music super late and does jumping jacks during quiet hours.
Everyone will hate you.
Tip #21. Put down that tray.
The only people who should be carrying trays are the cafeteria workers and football players who eat seven plates of food. I'm looking out for you. Just put it down, and get your plate.
Tip #22. Go to parties.
You won't regret it. You'll have so much fun or realize parties aren't for you. Either way, you're figuring it out.
Tip #23. Heck, even go talk to that guy at the party.
If you go, don't sit in the corner and be afraid. Chances are, that guy is just as nervous to talk to you. So, make the first move and go say hello! Worst case scenario is that he makes up some lame excuse to not talk to you—and if that happens, you don't need him. But, it will more than likely pay off to go say hi. You might make a new friend (or maybe more *wink wink*).
Tip #24. Go to sporting events, Greek events, fundraising events, etc...
Basketball games are a blast, tailgating is fun, and fundraising events are for a good cause! Take your friends and go to school sponsored events—represent your university!
Tip #25. But also study.
The most important thing is that your grades stay up to standard, despite your activities and party habits. You're not putting yourself in debt to get drunk every Friday night, so studying should most definitely come first. That's why you're here.
Tip #26. Connect with people. In any way possible.
Connections are important for your future. That guy you meet in chemistry might one day be able to help you get a job. So, talk to people and make friends—even if it's as lame as starting a conversation about something obvious.
Tip #27. Get with a crowd that fits you.
There's an activity, a friend, a place for everybody. So be yourself and find the group of people who love you for you!
Tip #28. Try out for things.
Put yourself out there! Thought about trying out for cheerleading? Go for it! The worst that can happen is that they say no.
Tip #29. Get to know your professors.
Sit front row, day one. They will remember your face and know that you are trying your best in that class. It shows that you're interested and want to do well. Introduce yourself to them, and meet with them if you are struggling—they want you to do well just as bad as you want to!
Tip #30. And find out which ones terrify you.
There will be professors that scare you, whether they be tough or just plain terrifying.
Tip #31. And then make friends with them.
Purely professional-based friendship.
Tip #32. Keep your eye on the prize (a college degree).
There will be people who catch your eye and your feelings. This will be a huge distraction because college dating is different from high school dating. You don't have your parents telling you to get your ass home to study. No curfew. So you must stay focused on schoolwork—don't let that hot lacrosse player interfere with your classes.
Tip #33. But totally go for it.
But don't sit at your desk and be sad. If you like someone, make time for them! Don't make yourself miserable because you wanted to go out with somebody, but you stayed and studied all day. You have the right to live a little.
Tip #34. Always make time to hang with your buddies.
Your friends will keep you sane. When you're going on hour four in the library, you might feel a little loopy. Go get a coffee with your friends and goof off.
Tip #35. And call your parents.
Very therapeutic. You'll miss home, and they'll miss you! Give them a call, you'll both feel better.
Tip #36. Thank whoever helped you get to college.
Whether it be mom, dad, grandma, uncle... say thanks. College is a lot, and maybe a lot of sacrifices were made to get you here. Make sure those people know how grateful you are—a simple thank you goes a long way!
Tip #37. And make them proud.
You have dreams. And people believe in you. The people who got you to school want to see you succeed—so do your best and make them proud.
Tip #38) Work hard, play hard.
Study, party, get involved, and have fun. College is one of the best times of your life—so make the most of it.
Remember: The guide is always right.