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Like many new beginnings, your freshman year of college may feel both exciting and confusing. From getting accustomed to living on your own to keeping up with advanced-level courses, there’s no doubt that a student’s first few months on campus are a major transition.
Rather than stressing out, students can make the most of their college experience from the start by preparing in advance and coming in with a game plan. Here are some tips for navigating your freshman year and starting off your college career on the best note possible.
Step Outside of Your Comfort Zone
Your college campus is going to be filled with different clubs, activities, and student groups. Avoid sitting on the sidelines and instead, be proactive about joining in and trying new things. Most universities offer a much greater range of activities than a typical high school, so freshmen might feel a little overwhelmed by all of their new choices. Aim to select activities that you have always been interested in, and don’t worry about what your friends or roommates are doing. Signing up for activities is an excellent way to expand your social circle, develop new skills, and discover passions that you can continue to pursue.
Sit in the Front Row
You might be tempted to hide in the back of the class during your first semester, especially if you’re on the shyer side. However, choosing to sit in the front will help you stay focused from the very beginning. Instead of online shopping on your laptop, you will be in direct view of your professor, which can help eliminate distractions and keep you engaged. Over time, you will naturally begin to build a rapport with your professor, which can be particularly beneficial for future recommendation letters and research opportunities.
Get a Job on Campus
Working on campus can be a win-win for students. Not only do you make some spending money, but you’ll also have the opportunity to meet some of your peers and get more familiar with your institution. If possible, aim to find a position that aligns with your interests and long-term professional goals. For example, if you’re interested in literature and pursuing a degree in education, you might want to apply for a job at your college’s writing center so that you can help your peers take their essay skills to the next level.
Check Your Graduation Requirements
Most colleges will have a list of courses or areas of study that students must complete to earn their degrees. Rather than waiting until sophomore or junior year to assess your progress, make sure that you’re on track to graduate on time from your freshman year onwards. If you’re not sure what you want to major in, start by completing some of the general education requirements so that you’ll have plenty of time to devote to classes for your major by the time you’re a sophomore or junior.
Stick to a Schedule
Many freshmen struggle to adapt to the way college courses are structured. Instead of taking the same classes every day, your lectures and seminars will likely take place just once or twice a week. While this might sound like a dream come true, students can’t use the extra free time to slack off. Instead, professors will expect you to independently work on major projects, such as papers and presentations. Stay on top of your coursework by creating a detailed schedule and keeping track of deadlines for each class that you’re enrolled in.
While freshman year may seem a bit overwhelming, it’s also filled with exciting opportunities and new challenges. If you’re looking to make the most of your college experience, our team of experts can guide you throughout your journey.