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College indeed is a wholenew experience. It takes away part of the spontaneity of high school and gets you more prepared to face the new challenges of life after school. Dealing with people can be both exciting and distressing depending on how you carry yourself. You also need to keep a watchful eye on your financial plansand schedule to stay financially stable and get grades that impress. Here are some tips I have for incoming freshmen.
Early Visit
Visit your college campus weeks or months before enrolment or the big first day. You need to be oriented with the differentbuildings to save time instead of keeping on asking and skipping a number of classes. I asked for a personalized business card holder just so I can give them to some of the useful people in school like my guidance counselor and mentors. It is also very helpful to go around beforehand so that you know what to expect when coming into class. I tried sitting in a couple of classes just so I can get a feel of the new environment.
Talk to other college students in different year levels and introduceyourself to teachers. Ask for advice, especially regarding the particular course you are going to take. I usually hand out engraved flasks just to get on their good side. You might also want to find out early about fraternities, sororities, extra-curricular activities and other events and organizations that can make your stay more educational and enjoyable.
Stabilizing
Once you enter the premises, establish your mark by finding the rightpeople whom you can rely on in the hardest situations. In most instances, your roommate will most likely be your best bud throughout college. Set rules and guidelines that the two of you can follow just to maintain the peace and order in the space. I actually transfer from one dormitory to another so I make it a habit to bringengraved pocket watches to hand out to my new roommate for introductory purposes.
Find methods early on to keep yourself financially secure. You may get a part-time job in a nearby joint or work as a student assistant to save on enrolment expenses. I like to sell online or make special favors to friends in exchange for a free meal or some cash. Learn how to find money for emergency purposes. You should also set up a bank account where you can watch your money closely and have emergencyfunds.
Contacts
Always have a contact person to help you with anything you might need throughout your stay. Find family who is also living in the same city or area as your school. Find 2 to 3 teachers or advisers who will help you in your academic needs. Also learn how to combinewith different groups and agencies in school. Be active in a few programs or even try running for a position to make your mark. Later on as your network expands, you will discover that getting contacts becomes fairlyeasy.