8 Tips for students on how to survive your first year of college

The start of college is a huge transition for students. It can be the beginning of a wonderful 4 year experience and growth. Here are some tips to help with the successful transition and making the most out of college years.

1. Go to orientations.

   This is one way to find your way around campus effectively. It is important not only to attend general orientations, but those for your major as well.

2. Get to know your roommate and others in your residence hall.

   These will be people you will live with it. Many of my life-long friends are my college roommates. We began our relationship during the summer before move-in and before the stresses of college.

3. Buy books used or alternatives to the campus bookstore.

   These tend to be cheaper and are in good-enough conditions. Consider Amazon and Half.com.

4. Orient yourself to campus: ex. find a quiet place.

   It will be important to find a quiet space to do your studying. This may be the corner of a library or a bench surrounded by greenery.

5. Think about your major.

   It’s hard to tell if you like the major or not until you are really taking those classes. You will get the feel for it within a month or so. If it is not for you, know that you can change it.

6. Study the syllabus.

   You have to juggle multiple classes and you have limited time. It is important to look through the syllabus to get an idea of what you have to do. You can also find clues as to which are important topics that would be on the test so you can concentrate on those subjects.

7. Plan ahead.

   Write down all assignments that will be due in your calendar and also note short-term goals in between.

8. Get organized.

   Set up a folder for each class. Use a planner and a to-do list. Find a note-taking strategy that works for you, whether it be on a laptop or hand-written.