6 TIPS FOR COLLEGE FRESHMAN SUCCESS
1. Manage your time
Keep stress at bay with time management tips for college freshmen. These include:
- Knowing your class schedule inside and out. Consider carrying a printed copy of your classes until you have it memorized.
- Using a planner or calendar to manage due dates for coursework, papers, and exams.
- Scheduling time for studying.
- Working to strike a healthy balance between academics and social activities.
If you will be working while in college, be sure to plan your work availability so you can manage school responsibilities while still maintaining a social life.
2. Make smart financial decisions
For incoming freshmen whose colleges are in a different town or geographic area than their homes, it can be a good idea to open checking and savings accounts with local banks. That way, you can be more confident you’ll have access to a fee-free ATM if you need one.
It might also be a good idea to get a credit card (with a conservative borrowing limit) for emergencies. You can help build your credit score by making small purchases on the card and paying the balance each month when it’s due. Just don’t fall into the trap of making frivolous purchases you can’t afford to pay off right away.
3. Plan for your new living environment
If you plan to live on campus or in an apartment for the first time, find out what the space constraints will be and plan around them. You don’t need to bring everything you own to your new home on move-in day. It’s generally easier to add more clothing or hobby supplies to your room than it is to bring everything on move-in-day only to realize you don’t have space for it. Most freshmen living spaces are cramped; you may also be sharing a dorm room or apartment with one or more students. Be considerate of others, and take only what you need.
It’s also important to familiarize yourself with the location of the laundry facilities, restrooms, common areas, and dining halls in relation to your room or apartment, so you can get where you need to go quickly. The more familiar you become with your environment, the more comfortable you will feel.
4. Immerse yourself in the experience
You’re going to college to get an education, so it’s important to attend classes whenever you’re able to do so (even those early-morning classes!). Get to know your professors and don’t be afraid to ask questions if you don’t understand something. Faculty and staff often have pre-planned office hours designed to give students an opportunity to stop by and ask questions or get help one-on-one, so take advantage of those open doors.
Also, don’t be afraid to join clubs, attend school-sponsored social activities and go to networking events. These can be great ways to make new friends with whom you’ll enjoy spending time throughout college and beyond.
5. Take care of yourself
For some incoming college freshmen, it can be tempting to treat the experience as a prolonged party. Resist this temptation! While it is important to take time away from studying to relax, try to make smart decisions about your social life. Eat your fruits and veggies, drink plenty of water, and find ways to work exercise into your day. Leverage any campus-provided health services when offered, both for your physical health and your mental health. Remember that feelings of being overwhelmed, stressed, and homesick are normal, so ask for help when you need it.
6. Get help registering for classes
For many students, one of the most confusing aspects of college life is determining how many and what classes to take in college freshman year. The good news is that there are typically academic advisors available to help you answer the tough questions, including “How many credits do you need freshman year of college?” and “How many classes do you take in college freshman year?” Your advisor or student support resources can help you select your classes and determine what type of course load — full-time or part time — makes the most sense for your situation and goals.
Leveraging these tips for incoming college freshmen can help make the transition from high school to college as smooth as possible, so you can take full advantage of the experience. Generations College in Chicago offers a variety of two-year college degree programs, designed to teach students the real-world knowledge and skills they need to succeed in their chosen careers. To learn more, contact us today!