3 Things I Wish I Knew Before Beginning College
College is often described as a major transitioning period between adolescence and adulthood. Students are often faced with the tough reality of having to balance school, work, social life, and their mental and physical health. For most college students, this is their first time being independent, so being able to be self-motivated and grounded is key to making the transition easier. With that being said, there are many aspects of transitioning into adulthood and college that are less obvious and take time to adapt to. I personall, had to experience many of these challenges first handed, being that I am a first generation college student. In this article, I will disclose 5 things that I wish I knew before beginning college!
1. Take advantage of "welcome week" events
I will never forget the feelings I felt when my parents dropped me off at college. For the first time in my life, I was independent. I remember thinking to myself, "now what?". It is very easy to feel lonely initially, especially if you attend a college far from your home town. Making friends right off the bat can help stop you from thinking about home and help you focus on your new endavor. "Welcome week" events may sound "cheesy", but I guarantee that you will benefit in one way or another by attending them. Personally, I remember I went to a bonfire with my fellow peers, attended bingo and trivia nights, went to a dance, and hung out with other girls on my floor. These experiences made me feel as though I was at home just because of how many new friends I met or made! Additionally, attending these events helped me step out of my comfort zone, which I believe is important to do in college and life in general. Also, free food, t-shirts, and school apparel are only bonuses for attending these events!
2. Don't be afraid to reach out to professors
So many college students are too intimidated to reach out to professors when they are in need of help. When I was a freshman, I remember being terrified to ask a professor a question. Now that I am an upperclassmen, I understand the value behind attending office hours and asking for help. On average, I probably attend at least one office hour session a week. I find that it is extremely valuable to be able to ask questions or verify my understanding of complex concepts with my professors. I find that the topics that I ask questions about and discuss with my professors are the topics that I perform the best on quizzes and exams. Not only are professors willing to help you expand your knowledge of the material you are learning in class, but they are also extremely knowledgeable on topics such as graduate school, research, and college in general. I think a lot of students forget that professors are humans too, and they care so much about their students' success!
3. Utilize resources such as the math lab, writing center, and supplemental instruction
At my college (and I'm sure most colleges), we have an Academic Skills Center that students can utililze when they are in need of tutoring or supplemental instruction. Specifically, there are tutors available for subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Math, Music, Foreign Languages, and Writing. Whether you have a specific question or are in need of guidance while writing a paper, the tutors serve as an excellent resource! When I was a freshman, I was initially weary about utilizing these resources, but I found it very beneficial to have the writing tutors look over my papers before I submitted them.
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