Happy August! You know what that means…. College is right around the corner.
Starting college is both an exciting and overwhelming experience. The first week is a whirlwind filled with all kinds of emotions: homesickness, loneliness, nervousness, excitement, etc. There’s so many new faces, places, classes, and a bunch of activities that can leave anyone feeling worn out. The first week of college is the best yet also worst week of many college students lives, however it is essential for growth and beginning this new journey. As we all know the famous quote “Nothing good comes easy.” I’m here to help you navigate this crucial time, and make it a bit easier for you. Here are some essential tips and tricks to ensure you not only survive but thrive your first week of college.
Tips & Tricks
1. Plan Ahead: Planning ahead will help you feel like you know what you are doing and that you have your ish together, even though you may have no idea what you’re doing or expecting. Whether you buy a physical planner, digital planner (check out our store for our newly launched Acadmic Planner!), set up Notion, or binge watch YouTube Videos— regardless of whatever way you plan, it is essential to do so before you arrive on campus. Review your schedule, look over syllabi, familiarize yourself with your campus map, know what buildings your classes are in, the names/emails of your professors, and who you will be rooming with. This will reduce the stress associated around the many unknowns. Many colleges often have orientation sessions or activities where you can meet new people and get a better feel for the campus. Take advantage of these opportunities! If you have time on campus before classes start… do a “walk through.” Pretend its your first day of classes, and go find all the building your classes will be in. Walk them in the order your classes are in your schedule—this will help you to remember and physically prepare for the day classes begin. (It also reduces your likelihood of getting lost.)
2. Get and Stay Organized: Make sure your dorm room is set up before the craziness of the semester begins and write down important dates, times, assignments or events in a calendar. (Preferably a digital calendar so you can have quick access to it on your phone… I recommend Google Calendar) Organizing your tasks and responsibilities beforehand will help you to stay on top of your commitments and avoid any last minute things thrown your way. Remember— don’t over-fill your schedule. It’s your first week! Take it easy.
3. Manage Your Time Wisely and Create a Solid Routine: Transitioning into college often means more freedom, yet more responsibility. Manage your time wisely and don’t overcommit. Create a morning and night routine and STICK to it! Remember to set aside some time for yourself. Balancing these aspects will help you stay productive and avoid burnout.
4. Be Social and Put Yourself Out There: Where are my introverts at?!? I know it can be hard…But try your best to talk to new people, ask questions, go to on-campus events, sign up for clubs, etc. Meeting new people is one of the highlights of college, in-fact someone you meet could end up to be a lifelong friend of yours. Remember, that if you don’t ask the answer is always no, and always ask yourself “what’s the worse that could happen?” You have nothing to lose!
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help: Its okay! No one will judge you or view you differently if you ask for help. You’re not the only one! Seek assistance when necessary. Whether it’s navigating campus, understanding course material, or adjusting to the many challenges of college life, most people are more than willing to help. Reach out to professors (they aren’t as scary as they may seem), seek out academic advisors or fellow students.
6. Stay Healthy: This is a BIG ONE. I know how hard college can be and it is SO important to make sure you remain healthy in all aspects: physical, mentally, spiritually, and emotionally. Don’t stop doing the things you love and enjoy, practice acts of self care, spend time reading the Bible, pray, meditate, go for runs, say affirmations, take your vitamins, get a full eight hours of sleep, and drink your water. Your physical and mental well being is crucial. You cannot perform your best if you are not at your best. I highly recommend taking advantage of your colleges fitness programs or classes.
7. Establish a Study Routine and Stick to It: Not only are morning and night routines so essential—but study routines are as well! Set out blocks of times EVERYDAY specifically for studying. Find a quiet, comfortable place, where you can focus and function at your best. Not only can this become a good habit, but it will help to reduce burnout and cramming for any big exams, assignments, or quizzes.
8. Keep an Open-Mind: College is a time for growth and exploration. Remember to consider diverse perspectives, respect others, be kind, be open to new ideas, etc. Having this mindset will enhance and enrich your experience, and it will make it easier to adapt more easily to new situations.
9. Stay Positive: As cliche as it may sound— try to stay positive. Its normal to feel overwhelmed during the first week. Its normal to feel a ton of different emotions-some of which you may have never felt before. Keep a positive attitude and remind yourself that this is a new experience, this is something you have never done before (so obviously you’re not an expert), and its okay to make mistakes and adjust as you go! Everyone is in the same boat. All first years have absolutely no idea what they are doing.. and that’s perfectly okay. Soon enough you’ll find your rhythm and what works best for you.
10. Explore Your Surroundings: Take some time to explore your gorgeous campus, and college town. Go out— and have fun! Explore, try new things you have never done before. Familiarizing yourself with the local area can help you feel more at home and less isolated. Find your favorite coffee shop, park, or shop down town.
Final Thoughts
With these tips and tricks in mind, you can set a solid foundation for a successful college experience. Remember, it is all about balance and embracing this unique journey! Going to college can be very bittersweet however, it is also the best time of many peoples lives. Enjoy your time, live in the moment, and remember to take it easy, and don’t be so hard on yourself! I’m rooting for you ♡
The content provided in this blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, medical, or professional advice. All information and opinions expressed are based on general knowledge and research. The author does not claim ownership of any content or ideas presented and does not assume responsibility for any errors or omissions.
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