Published on August 23, 2010 by Dr. Stephanie Sarkis, Ph.D. in Here, There, and Everywhere
I did the "extended tour" of college. From about 1991-2002. I did get 4 degrees, so at least I have an excuse. :) I've also been an adjunct professor, so I've also been at the other side of the classroom.
1) The Freshman Fifteen does exist. So does the Freshman Twenty. Watch how many starches and processed foods you are eating.
2) Pizza - the ubiquitous college snack. See #1.
3) If it's either take out a loan or quit school, take out a loan.
4) If you can live harmoniously with someone in a 20×20 ft. space, you can do anything.
5) Flip-flops: Wear them in the dorm shower. Always.
6) Always attend the *real* class, and use the Internet one for review.
7) If you are not a morning person, don't schedule classes for 7am. You will not go.
8) Get involved on campus. All work and no *productive* socializing is boring.
9) Too much socializing = bad grades. Everything in moderation.
10) If you are feeling overwhelmed, are having problems sleeping, or have gone through a breakup, visit your college's counseling center. If you are feeling suicidal at any point, call your college's crisis center number or call 911 immediately.
11) There are a lot of free activities on campus. Take advantage of them.
12) Many colleges have free tutoring centers on campus. Take advantage of them.
13) Sit near the front of class.
14) Attend the whole class. Even if you feel like you will just die if you sit there any longer. Even if you feel your brain start to ooze out the side of your ear. Because we (professors) sometimes give really important info at the end of class.
15) Recopy your notes after class. Or if you've typed them (which is recommended), do a quick read-through after class. Read More
