Things To Know Going Into Your First Year Of College

College is full of change, both exciting and scary. As you enter a new stage of your life, these are some things that can help you navigate your new college life.

Prioritize Your Physical Health

Oftentimes physical activity may be overlooked in college, but that does not mean that it isn't important. Common occurrences like the notorious “freshman 15” can be easily avoided by just taking 30 minutes to do something active each day. Exercise can also help improve sleep, reduce stress, and make for more efficient study sessions.

Work Smarter, Not Harder

Prioritization is key in college, not all classes are equally important. Grades also aren’t always as important anymore, and balancing studies with internships is crucial for career development. You can spend many hours taking a class and walk away feeling like you gained nothing. Study smart! Only pick the classes that will help the most with graduating and achieving your goals.

Make Studying Fun

It can feel more and more difficult to study, especially as many students start to get burned out once getting to college. Finding ways to make your notes fun is one of the best ways to keep studying fresh. Keeping your notes colorful and organized can help in review and help you to keep focus during class. You can draw diagrams, color code your notes, and bold the important information. This can increase willingness to go to lectures and make it easier to understand when studying for the next test.

Office Hours Are Your Friend

Office hours are one of the best resources in college and should not go unrecognized. You can ask meaningful questions and create bonds with the professors. Don’t be afraid to ask your questions, if you have a question chances are one of your classmates has the same one. You can also meet other students in your class, working with them can help you to problem solve, and create a clearer understanding of the content in class.

Do Not Let FOMO Control You

There are so many social activities going on in college, but this does not mean that you need to do them all. Life and college is all about balance. If all your friends are going to a football game but you are just not feeling up to it or have a big exam you need to study for, it’s ok to say no. When you head off to college everyone tells you how amazing of a time you will have, and usually they are talking about their social life. While these conversations are coated in good intentions, they can easily make you think that you not only have to do it all, but you have to do it all at once. It’s not true. It is important that you understand that feeling and prioritize yourself. Giving into FOMO can create more anxiety and, there will always be another opportunity to be with your friends.