You’ve just moved to college and classes are right around the corner. Adjusting to the first week of college after summer vacation can be difficult. Here are some tips to help you survive the first week of school:
Settle in before classes start.
The few days prior to the start of classes should be spent going over schedules, figuring out where classes are and spending time with friends. It should not be spent moving in, unpacking and scrambling to find a printer for your syllabi and schedule. The first step in surviving the first week of college is to be prepared so that you’re already settled in before classes start. Digging through packing supplies to find your notebooks should be the last thing on your mind when classes begin.
Learn where your classes are located.
Review your class schedule and physically visit each of them before the first day. Many students make the mistake of waiting until the morning of classes to figure out where everything is and are late on their first day as a result. This doesn’t leave a good impression with your professor. Avoid the awkward stares, and don’t be the guy that is 15 minutes late to class on the first day.
Know what you’re getting into.
Before you even sign up for classes, you should try to get a better idea of what you can expect. Know what you’re getting into. Fortunately, these days, it’s easy to make sure you don’t get stuck in a class with a professor that talks too fast or gives pop quizzes twice a week. Ratemyprofessor allows students to ‘grade’ their professors and warn other students which classes not to take with what professor.
Be nice!
Come into class with an open mind and a positive attitude. Making friends or at least study partners is key in surviving college. You don’t have to be on a hunt for best friends but chances are, you will need help from a fellow classmate at some point during your college career. Study groups are a must, and if you happen to miss class, you’re going to need to get the notes somehow. Establishing relationships, even if it’s only in the classroom, is important in surviving college.
Make responsible choices.
Freshman students may be excited at their new found freedom living on or off campus, but away from home. Many new college students can get carried away with going out, staying up late, and blowing off their class load. It’s important to remember the reason you are here in the first place- for school. Having a social life is also important, but leaving time for school work is crucial. Space it out, prioritize and be smart about it.
Embrace independence.
Whether you’re in school on loans, with family money or working three jobs to pay tuition, be independent. Starting college is a symbol of the new phase you are entering- adulthood. This comes with a lot of responsibility. Don’t depend on others for things you can do yourself. For example, do your own laundry, budget for the supplies you will need throughout the semester, maintain your dorm or apartment by cleaning up after yourself. These things are important in helping you make the transition out of adolescence and into maturity.
For more tips visit your go- to source for college moving or this Pinterest board.
What were your methods for surviving the first week of college? Tell us in the comments below!
