For many, college is among the most pivotal times in life, and sets the stage for all of the professional achievements and intellectual interests to come. Therefore, the process of making decisions about which institution to attend, what course of study to follow and how to pay for it all can be crucial indeed. Continue reading to get some terrific advice for navigating this challenging stage of life.
Do not choose a college or university because it is popular, because your friends or relatives went there or because you are a fan of their football team. There are other important factors you need to take into consideration such as your funding, the kind of career you want or the area where schools are located.
Keep up with your checking account to avoid wasting money on overdraft charges. Debit cards are easy to use, and unfortunately, that means it is also easy to spend more money than you actually have. Get into a schedule where you check your account online every few days so that this does not happen to you.
When taking a test, remember that it is just a test. Many people get intimidated by tests thinking that they are more than they really are. They are supposed to be a review of what you have already learned in your class. Having confidence in yourself and studying well can help you do well on them.
It’s important to consider how passionate you are about a class over how easy it is. Giving yourself a challenge is rewarding. You can learn and get more from tougher classes. You may even meet people that can help with a career after graduation.
Once you know what your major is, get to know the professionals in that department. They will be able to advise you and give you valuable information in how to meet your desires. Their experience will prove invaluable as you continue. Furthermore, if you have any problems, they will be able to help you.
Know what campus security’s phone number is. It should be very simple to contact the campus police and security departments, so be sure that you are familiar with the procedure. You will hopefully never have to do this, but it is better safe than sorry.
Check out all that your campus library has to offer. These libraries offer resources that no other place can provide. Meet the librarian and be sure to ask her to show you where you can find materials necessary for successful completion of your coursework. Libraries often feature postings of textbooks for sale or for trade.
If you are occupied with work and kids during the daytime, taking night classes is your best bet. Night time college instructors understand that you have a busy life and tend to cater their classes to this. There is usually less course work and the instructors are as a rule a little more flexible.
Get a schedule. A schedule is something that can really help you, and that goes beyond just your class schedule. Think about having a regular routine about when you eat, shower, and do your homework. This routine will keep things in line for you and help you not to be so stressed out.
Do not just rely on exploring electives as a way of deciding your major and passion. Go around campus and get involved. There are many clubs on campus that are always looking for new members. Every week should offer a wide variety of campus activities to choose from. Set out to try one new thing a week that you have never done before.
When you are studying, use the 30-3-2 rule. This simply means that you should concentrate intently on the subject you are studying, then take a three minute break before taking another two minutes to recall the information you learned during the previous 30 minutes. Then start the process all over again.
If you are looking to get the most out of class then you should sit in the front row. This allows you to keep from getting distracted, and keeps you focused on the lecture. You are more apt to answer questions because you can not see all of the eyes in the class on you.
Prior to classes beginning, email your professor to find out which textbooks you will need for your class. Once you know what you need, rent your textbooks instead of purchasing them. This is a newer, but popular option that allows you to borrow textbooks for a semester for a much smaller fee than it would cost you to purchase them.
Go shopping for essentials about a month before you go away to school. Get everything you think you need, and then you will have time to think about things you might have needed and have time to go to the store to pick them up before you leave. Early preparation is the key!
Many students take advantage of credit card offers while away at school, especially if they aren’t employed. Unfortunately, this just sets you up for massive debt and damaged credit. Even low introductory rates are just that–introductory. Fees and balances add up quickly, creating a dangerous situation. If you absolutely must have a credit card, stick with only one card.
If you are having trouble in a class, don’t procrastinate about asking for help. Most professors have office hours; drop by during this time and tell the professor you need extra help. If your professor has TA’s, you can also ask them for help. Finally, you can hire a tutor through your school’s academic help center.
There can be no denying the importance of a college education for countless individuals. However, that is not to say that decisions regarding where to apply, which major to choose and how the degree program will be financed are simple ones. By heeding the tips found above, it is possible to simplify the process a bit and gain a bit of helpful perspective.
