As a senior I’ve been thinking back on my college career and there are a bunch of things I wish someone told me. I’m the oldest child so going into school I was completely unprepared. Here are a few pieces of college advice I wish someone gave me before freshman year:
1. Make Friends in Your Classes
Even if it’s awkward to put yourself out there sometimes, it’s awesome when you make friends! There are many benefits to having a friend or two in a class. If you miss a class you can get the notes you missed, you can gain a study buddy and if the class is boring you have someone to suffer with (misery loves company)!
2. Communicate with Your Roommate
I can not stress this enough. Communication really is key. There were so many fights I could have avoided had I just expressed my feelings to my roommate. Start by saying “This make me feel like this” instead of “You did this and you did that.” You don’t want your roommate to feel like you attacking them. If you can’t resolve the issue I suggest you look to your RA for guidance. It’s a bonus if your roommate is also your friend. You wouldn’t want to lose that opportunity over a small argument.
3. Read, Read, Read
Any class that requires you to read, DO IT. I know it’s boring and time consuming, but I promise it will help you greatly. Not only read, but keep up with it meaning as the professor assigns it do it. Don’t wait until the night before the exam to read. You most likely won’t be able to do it and you won’t be able to retain the information if you do get through it.
4. Hand Write Your Notes
In today’s society computers are all the craze. There are positives of typing notes but the negatives are far greater. The internet is full of distractions from online shopping to online games to social media. A lot of professors put their PowerPoint slides online so there is really no reason to type them out. Handwriting notes has been proven in multiple studies to be a better way to learn and retain information. It helps to have the PowerPoint slides up on your screen and take notes on paper about what the professor says.
5. Work Now, Party Later
You’re going to be in school for four years. That means four years of parties and fun. Do not make the mistake of getting wrapped up in the party scene. The reason you’re there is to get an education. I know you’re probably hearing this from your parents and family members but it really is important. Is going out to that party more important than failing that exam? Probably not.
I hope these pieces of college advice can help you during your college career. I know they would have helped me four years ago! Have anything to add? Drop them below.