The Best Way to Give Yourself the Best Start at College

You're about to embrace your new life as a college student, if not get to know the forgotten practicalities of starting out in college. It's very important to read this article, as you don't want to encounter a bump during your first month.

The new term is far away. As a matter of fact, you have months to prepare for it. This is a new experience, which can overwhelm you. If you happen to be an incoming second-year student, if not someone who is about to enter the final year (in college), then you might have to remind yourself during a cold day. (And a snowstorm might be a blessing disguise.) If you can't make a mental note of it, then write it down. You can also use your mobile phone or iPad. (There are apps for a to-do list.) You can look at it during spring time, but there's a likely chance that you would forget it momentarily. Spring can cause distraction, which is natural. You can't live without WiFi, though. (And there's a good chance that you will look at it once more.) You don't have to wait for spring. The early bird always gets the worm.

5 Ways to Help You Settle In Your (New) Student Life

Get out and wonder. This is arguably the best time to know your surrounding. The snow may make you wonder if someone is pulling a leg, but there won't be any distraction at all. Keep in mind that you don't have a pending deadline (to your assignment) or a looming examination (if you're a second year or final-year student). You can also explore freely (if you're an incoming freshman as well). You only need to know the places you are likely to frequent during the term, and this includes the places to hang out and relax. Don't forget to ask (if you can't find your way around).

Plan your budget. You don't want to live off pizza (or pasta) for a couple of weeks or more. You don't want to keep on calling your parents if you run out of cash. And it would be foolish to swear off those big events, as this is your best chance to make new friends. If you can decide what club to commit, then well and good. Don't get too excited and sign up with two or three more clubs. You may never afford the unexpected expenses, even if you have done your research thoroughly.

Get to know the students you will live with. It might be too early to find out who will be your roommate. You're likely to meet older students, which is better than you expect. There is no one better than a sophomore, if not a graduating student, who will show you around. You'll also get to meet the people in charge of the dormitory (if you will live there). Don't hesitate to ask if another student or two have done the same thing. Social media helps you to connect with them. Don't be coy to ask them if they're looking for a roommate.

Do not look for a part-time job. If you won't encounter any budget problem, then you don't have to think about part-time opportunities. Your coursework is your top priority unless you don't keep a tab on your spending. You want to have fun, but not too much fun (to make you forget about your studies). You can inquire about clubs that may interest you, even find out if there's a date for the college fair. If you're a worry wart, then go to College Guidance. Just take a mental note.

Get ready to stock up. You don't want to stress out on your first few weeks on lecture. Make sure that you stock up on pens, notepads, and highlighters. It won't only make your life easier, but you also worry less about expenses. Don't forget a spare charger, as you'll spend lots of time in front of your laptop. It's not too early to prepare for your cooking and kitchen utensils. You may want to set aside a few towels. And you might forget the everyday medicine if you tend to it later. Remember that these things require budget, so it would be wise to do it now (or a little later).

Don't Forget to Do the Following

If you're struggling with heavy eyes, then don't fight it. You need lots of sleep, as you might have trouble with time management. You may be a year (or two) older, so you must have an experience. It's fine if you can't admit that you haven't mastered the art of self discipline. It should have taught your not to sleep late, if not sleep seven hours or more.

Do not use the summer to find out more about the modules that you would study during the next term. If you can do it, then don't wait for another day. It should give you confidence, as you're aware that you can manage the coursework. And you should be aware that you can't be too perfect all the time. If you don't have a clue, then there are days when you don't feel like studying (or even read the assigned text). You're reading the article, so you won't have an excuse for not preparing for it.

Try to enjoy doing all of the above, as you may not be smiling when the coursework is starting to overwhelm you.