I'm sure you are extremely excited about this chapter of your life. After all the studying and hard work you've put in, you have finally been accepted to the college of your voice and this will forever be an achievement to celebrate. However, getting into this chapter does not mean that you can now totally relax and act as though you are vacationing. It comes with expectations and tasks that you have to ensure that you stay on top of. This is why we are here to give you tips on things that you need to stay mindful of while you embark on this enjoyable journey of being a college student.
Peer Pressure
One of the most common things that college brings is peer pressure. If you are not strong enough to stand for your values and your character, once you go to college, chances are that you will be bullied into doing things just because ‘everyone else is doing them’. You, therefore, need to find comfort in yourself and be strong-willed so that you can stand up for your own beliefs and not have to change your character just because you are now in college. Although you may feel like you are missing out or everyone else is judging you if you don't conform to what they are doing, that won't be the case at all. We all have the power of autonomy over our lives, so unless you want to do something, don't let anyone push you around to do it. Never do uncomfortable things to please anyone, and the sooner you grasp this concept, the more ready you will be to thrive in a college environment.
Time Management
Once college starts, you will notice how your responsibilities will now be increased. You have to show up for yourself every day, take care of your needs, tackle school and stay on top of your social game all at once, and this can be very hectic to juggle. So, the only way you can beat these newfound responsibilities is by having discipline with your time. If possible, make a routine of how you plan on spending your time daily, and stick to it. This will help the transition become more natural, rather than forced. If you have to, also use time blocking so that you can ensure that by the end of each day, you will have completed the tasks that are required of you. Just remember to have time set aside for any miscellaneous occasions.
College Resources
There are so many resources that colleges offer and if you are not wise enough, you may even graduate without taking advantage of these resources. Make it a point to investigate all the available resources and use them to your advantage. After all, there's a reason why they exist isn't there? So whether it's books, part-time jobs or any other resources, make use of them without any fear of judgement. Explore everything and make use of what you need so that when you leave college, you will be a better version of yourself. You might just regret not using the resources after you transition out of college if you are unlucky.
Finance Management
College comes with a lot of financial responsibilities. Between paying for tuition, buying new books and catering for your living expenses, chances are that you are stretched financially. This is why you need to manage your finances more mindfully, otherwise you will find yourself in debt. You should, therefore, create a realistic budget that outlines your income and expenses so that you can stay on top of your financial game. Instead of just spending casually and abruptly, you will now be able to leave within your means. If you find that your finances are a bit on the low side, then you can even consider getting a part-time job for yourself so that you can cushion your financial needs. Don't be reckless with your finances trying to keep up with other people. Remember to spend your money wisely.
Extracurricular Activities
Getting involved in extracurricular activities is the best way for you to just relax and enjoy being part of a social group that enjoys doing what you love. Whether it’s drama, dancing, singing or sport, don't hesitate to take in any activities as this will help to enrich your college experience. Choose activities that genuinely interest you and honk your skills to match them. You may just discover talents that you were not aware of before so don't hold yourself back from exploring.
Social Associations
You need to surround yourself with people who have values that are aligned with you in college. If you associate with the wrong people, chances are that you will be swayed into becoming corrupt yourself. So make it a point to build a social network with positive influences who inspire and uplift you. Friendship should make you experience personal growth and if the friends that you choose don't evoke this in you, then you have to look for better friends. Chances are that your college friends will graduate into your lifelong friends so choose them wisely.
Safety
Your safety is something that you should keep an eye out for when you get into college. Many college students are exposed to different life-changing situations due to a lack of safety yearly, so it is up to you to ensure that you don't become one of these statistics. Be careful of the people you interact with and their intentions for you and if you decide to go out at night, ensure that you have safety precautions in play. Never compromise your safety for a spur-of-the-moment thing. After all, it's better to be safe than sorry.