Going to college can be intimidating and a little scary. No matter how much you plan and prepare, you’ll still end up with some unanswered questions especially during the first semester. Colleges do their best to answer all of your queries, but there will still be some things that aren’t addressed on orientation day.
Don’t worry, we’ve done some research to help you out. Keep reading for our list of 5 ways that college applicants should prepare before going off to college.
1. Money
Money is extremely important when it comes to your college education. That goes without saying. Before you go off to college, you need to make proper plans on how you’re going to pay for it.
Your parents have probably given this some thought, but at a certain point you may need to take out a student loan. If that’s the case, you’ll need to come up with a plan for paying it back when you’re finished school. What happens if you don’t get a job right out of college? What happens if you decide to return to school? Nobody wants to leave college only to be buried in student debt. The more research you do now, the more confidence you can have moving forward.
There are a number of websites out there who specialize in financial planning for college. Sites such as Crediful even have lists of smart ways to budget for college and pay down loans and fees overtime. The information is out there, you just need to do the research.
2. Dorm room restrictions
Colleges all have different rules and regulations about what items are allowed in student’s dorm rooms. These rules can even differ between different dorms on campus. Before you start packing, be sure to go through the dorm rules and list of prohibited items. You don’t want to invest in a microwave or mini fridge and bring it all the way to campus, only to find out that you can’t put them in your dorm room.
3. Read a lot
If you aren’t in the habit of reading, there’s no time like today to start! Unlike high school, college classes require extensive reading and research. If you’re not used to doing this already, it can be a huge adjustment.
You don’t have to start by reading dense course material. Even reading magazine articles or short stories is enough to get you into the habit and prepare you for the years of reading and study ahead. Some of the world’s most successful people take time to read something every single day. If that doesn’t convince you to take up the habit, then we’re not sure what will.
4. Roommates
Despite what TV and movies will have you believe, you won’t always end up liking your college roommate. In fact, not liking for first roommate is more common than you might think. With most student traveling away from their hometowns to attend school, and so many different backgrounds and cultures mixing in one place, you never know who you will end up sharing a room with. If you end up not liking your roommate, it’s not the end of the world. Socialize, meet new people, and find some friends you’d like to room with the next year.
5. Grades matter
No matter how often people say that extracurriculars will help you get that dream job placement, they’re wrong! Let’s be honest, no company is going to hire you just on the basis of your extracurriculars. Believe it or not, grades can play a huge role in getting you that dream job so be sure to go to class!
Ultimately, the key is to find balance between studying to achieve that excellent GPA, and being involved in activities outside of the classroom. If you can do this, then you’re set for life after college!
Keep these 5 things in mind when you’re getting ready for college, and you’re going to go in feeling prepared, confident, and excited for the years you have ahead. Best of luck!
For more great blogs on all things college, check out the other blogs at College Basics.
