If you are fortunate enough to get yourself into college, congratulations! Believe it or not, that was the easy part; you’ve got a long way to go to graduation. Many challenges will present themselves to you and you have to find ways to overcome them; the following article will show you how.
Go visit several potential colleges to help you decide where you want to go to college. By visiting universities, private colleges and community colleges, you can decide what environment you really want to be in. Most colleges offer several tours throughout the school year. Many also offer an opportunity to shadow a student to see what a normal day is like.
Socialize in moderation.
Socialization is an important part of the college experience. Just remember to balance visiting friends and keeping your grades up. It can be easy to lose track of time and procrastinate. Save late night outings for nights when you do not have class the very next day.
Consider living on campus even if you go to school close to home. Not only will you miss a lot of things going on, but you may miss out on your first opportunity to live on your own and make your own financial and social decisions. If you can possibly afford it, live in a dorm.
Keep your loans to a minimum.
Look into scholarships, grants and special programs to help pay for college so that you won’t have a lot of debt hanging over your head when you graduate. For many students, loan checks seem like free money while they are in school–but once you get out they become an obligation you may regret.
Make certain that you have your FAFSA submitted very early in the year. This is the financial aid that is automatically given by the government. The earlier you apply, the more certain you are to receive your benefits. Sometimes, the finances can run out, especially at smaller educational institutions. Be prepared!
Use the many resources of the library.
It is a great place to study, read and relax. When you really need to concentrate, the quiet of the library is a great place to escape the activity of the dorm. The library is also where you can find the most comfortable chairs on campus.
Take notes in addition to listening to lectures. Taking notes is a great way to keep information in your mind as you take it in. This helps make studying a breeze. While you may think you know it all, write it down just in case.
If you love coffee, don’t buy a cup every day. It simply costs too much. Brew your own coffee. While it’s not as easy as getting it from a coffee place while you’re out, you can save quite a bit of cash this way. A good coffee maker can be purchased for a low price if you shop around.
Don’t rely on exploring various electives to help you choose a major.
Try to involve yourself in campus activities. You can always join some clubs on campus or do a work study program. There is usually a multitude of activities going on across campus any given week. Try something new every week if you want!
Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you feel overwhelmed, stressed out or depressed during your freshman year. Most colleges offer free therapy or counseling to students; take advantage if you need it. Adjusting to college can be difficult and stressful, so don’t be ashamed to admit you can’t handle it as well as you thought you would.
Sleep a full eight hours before a big exam. If you deny yourself sleep, you’ll find that you are groggy and your brain won’t process all the information you need to remember in an efficient way. Your more than likely then to fail the exam, so don’t think you are doing yourself any favors with an all-nighter!
Learn to prioritize your classes in regard to study time.
Not all of your classes will be intensive for you. Those classes that you excel in, are often easy for you and do not require as much study time. Be smart and use that study time for other classes that do require more of your attention; however, always refocus your efforts should challenges arise in the easy class.
Study one hour a day while in college. Last minute cramming can actually detract your performance on tests and exams, due to stress and sleep deprivation. When you study one hour daily, you are always in a steady habit that never takes up too much of your schedule at any one time.
Making it all the way through college is quite a challenge, but once you have achieved it, you are well on your way in life. Use the advice of this article and other valuable sources you find along the way. Achieving that diploma is one of the best things you will ever do for yourself!