How to survive college
As a freshman in college, you want to make the most of your college experience. Follow these tips to
make every moment count!
Learn the lay of the land. Explore your new home! Go to college orientations and familiarize yourself
with the ins and outs of campus life. Once you do, it will be easier to navigate around campus. No
getting-lost-on-the-way-to-class stories here!
Say YES! Get involved from DAY ONE. It’s the easiest way to meet other students and learn what
interests you most.
Get organized. While your classes will provide the framework for your schedule, set aside enough time
for study hours, exercise hours, social time and more. Strike a balance in your newfound freedom by
disciplining yourself from the get-go.
Talk to your professors. Make it clear that you are interested in succeeding in your college endeavor. If
you communicate from the start, later on if a problem arises, you will be able to build on a prior
relationship. If your professor holds office hours, seize the opportunity to ask questions and gain advice!
Take responsibility. You are “on your own” now, and you need to put on your big kid britches. Be honest
with yourself and identify the areas where you struggle. Is it procrastination or time management? Is it
reading or taking notes? Hone in on the issue and work toward improvement.
Try something new. College campuses offer a wide range of activities and events. Interested in Greek
life? Want to study abroad? Looking for internships? These opportunities are yours for the taking. Go to
initial informational meetings to find out more.
Book club online volunteer sign up School carnival or festival volunteer scheduling and online ticket sign
up Classroom testing proctor volunteer conference sign up form
Stay organized. You don’t want to be the one sleeping through the alarm on registration day. Set alerts
and calendar reminders so that you don’t miss out on important opportunities and events.
STUDY. Picture Mom or Dad wagging a finger and saying, “Remember to study!” Take some sound
advice from the people who are helping you out with your education and your future and crack open
those books. Have a hard time studying alone? Organize a study group for accountability.
Think long-term. Choosing a major is not just about picking something you like. Think through what you
can envision yourself doing in the future and how working in that industry will make you feel as a
person. Evaluate what you are good at and find a way to apply it to a career choice or field.
Embrace opportunity. The professors, administrators and staff love to see their students succeed. Their
advice is there for the taking, so tap into the knowledge and experience that’s right in front of you.
With these college survival tips, you’ll be ready for success in no time. Your future self will thank you for
following them!
