Just thought I'd start a thread for all of the n00b college-goers to get advice from those oh-so-wise ones that have already been through the college years.

What to do, what not to do, tips you learned, etc. Post everything and anything you can think of that would help a college freshman out! We want to hear it all! :D

I know I haven't been to college yet, but speaking as a High School senior who has been doing alot of research and going to colleges with my mother I'd just like to throw my two cents in to all the current High School seniors who are trying to figure out what to do.

First of all, despite what any High School teacher or councelor says to you, you do not have to know what you want to do for the rest of your life... now. It helps, BUT the decision you make now won't tie you down forever. You can always transfer schools if it doesn't fit you, you can change degrees or go into college undecided.

And what I recommend more than anything, is to do anything you can to try and visit the prospective schools you are thinking about. No amount of information I could read on the internet about the school helps as much as visiting the school. I learned more from visiting than I could ever of learned online. And as someone who is going to major in the arts, and looking between Art Institutes and Universitys with art programs, it is almost a necessity to see their facilities.

Has anyone on the boards majored in art? I'd like to hear about the school you went to and your experience there.

NICE thread by the way.

Just thought I'd start a thread for all of the n00b college-goers to get advice from those oh-so-wise ones that have already been through the college years.

What to do, what not to do, tips you learned, etc. Post everything and anything you can think of that would help a college freshman out! We want to hear it all! :D

I'm not finished with college, but I have been through my first year. Bring a refrigerator, a good blanket, something to cover your eyes with (for those nights when you HAVE to sleep), and don't tell your roomate to "help themselves" to your food, unless you want them to do it for the rest of the year. It's a hard thing to take back, trust me. Save your papers after every paragraph you write. DO NOT go to parties alone, and if something happens to you, tell someone.

Never, ever stop being yourself.

My advice .....

You are going to be on your own. You will be responsible for your own schedule, diet, laundry, etc. There is a lot of temptation to let loose, and party, but start slow. You are in college to learn. I have seen the best and the brightest flunk out because they would rather go out drinking than study.

No one is going to help you unless you ask for it. Teachers could care less if you fail. There are no guidance counselors to call you into their office and ask if you are OK. If you do not understand the subject matter, ask the professor for further explanations. I have never been refused a private session with a professor upon asking for clarification about a topic.

College is a lot of fun and was a great experience for me. Try to avoid the "Freshman 15" by eating healthy and exercising.

College is a totally different environment. No longer do you have classes back to back for 6 hours. You will be responsible for maintaining your own schedule. Getting out of class at 9, and have an 8am class the next day?...don't wait until that night to do your HW. Also, teacher give you assignments weeks in advance. Use your time wisely and do no procrastinate. Very few assignments will take only an hour, so start them early.

You will be exposed to all types of people from around the world. Find the group you feel comfortable with for studying and for fun.

Hello there... I am about to graduate in December with my Bachelor's Degree, and have been in college three years already, so I just might be able to help....lol. First off, as Ladyjo said, be wise and don't procrastinate! I cannot tell you how hellish it is to have to stay up typing a paper for your 400 level english class until 4 in the morning then trotting off to class at 8. Trust me, its not fun. Also, it is way important to meet your roomate in the middle. Oftentimes, college will be your first time "away from home," and undoubtedly, your first semester (at least), you will be living with a complete stranger. Different people have different schedules- try to come to agreeances, and set limits right off, as it is rather wierd to wake up at 3 in the morning because your roomate (who is approxiametely three feet away) has a visitor- akward :)

Also-- if you have a meal plan- take advantage of it! Lol, usually they are a free for all, so pack some fruit in your bag for later. But remember to eat healthy and use the activity center that is provided or find some other way to exercise-- many of my friends experienced the freshman 15-or 30- so be careful with excessive eating and/or drinking.

If you choose to party- do so wisely. Always go with someone you know, and watch your drinks. If you set your drink down and leave it-- just get another, as you never know. And please- don't drink and drive. And- if you are at a party and it gets busted- don't hide in the closet- thats the first place they look :P.... instead, try under a bed... haha

Remember-- join a club/group/organization that interests you... it is way important to get involved. Not only does this expand your social circle, you can learn a lot, make friends, and ease homesickness.

Make it a point to know your professors, and make sure they know you. This really helps, especially if your grades are borderline. Also, make it to class. Sometimes, especially in early classes, bonus attendance points can be achieved.

College truly is one of the greatest experiences of your life if you stay involved, stay responsible, and stay true to yourself. Not only will you learn a lot about your field, you will learn a lot about yourself. If any of you guys have further questions, feel free to PM me, and perhaps I could help.... Good Luck and have fun to everyone going to college for the first time, or continuing!!!!

Study things that you enjoy--not things that you (or your parents) think will help you get a job after you get a degree.
If you haven't obtained a credit card, get one. You will be flooded with card offers when you arrive at school. Pick ONE and ONLY ONE; maybe one with a nice rewards program, but never pay an annual fee. See item #3 below.
Don't accumulate consumer debt (credit card debt). That nifty credit card you just got in item #2 can get you into a world of trouble, but it can also open a world of possibilities. Use it wisely (pay off what you charge EVERY MONTH) and it will start building a strong credit record for your future.
Sleep on a regular schedule as much as possible, and avoid eating late at night.
Wear sunscreen.

Chellie asked me to offer some advice so here goes:

I have a Bachelor's Degree and a Master's Degree.

Undergrad was fun. That's my first piece of advice: have fun, but in order to do that you have to learn the fine art of balancing fun with work. It's best to stay single and not get too involved in a relationship. Your main relationship should be with getting through school especially Freshman and Sophomore year. The main skill you need to learn is: the ability to learn! Yeah it's that simple. That's what undergrad education is for in my opinion. You have to become a critical thinker and develop the drive to always want to learn new things. It's people in that mind set that excel. Those that just get by never become innovators and aren't very versatile.

Grad school was a life-changing experience. I studied Medical Illustration and even took classes at the Medical School level like Gross Anatomy and Cell Biology/Embryology. It was intense and mind warping. It was essentially job training though. I can't imagine many grad programs are any different than that. Grad school requires nothing short of: your mind, your soul and your personality because all of those will change once you go through the whole process.

School is great especially if you become a good learner and put your heart into it. You'll always get what you deserve if you work really hard and get through it. I for one can vouch for that personally.


I hope that was helpful.

Study things that you enjoy--not things that you (or your parents) think will help you get a job after you get a degree.
If you haven't obtained a credit card, get one. You will be flooded with card offers when you arrive at school. Pick ONE and ONLY ONE; maybe one with a nice rewards program, but never pay an annual fee. See item #3 below.
Don't accumulate consumer debt (credit card debt). That nifty credit card you just got in item #2 can get you into a world of trouble, but it can also open a world of possibilities. Use it wisely (pay off what you charge EVERY MONTH) and it will start building a strong credit record for your future.
Sleep on a regular schedule as much as possible, and avoid eating late at night.
Wear sunscreen.

You forgot to add no sex in the champagne room.

Oh what the hell I'll throw in my $.02. Undergrad in Finance and an MBA.

1. It's tempting to stack all your classes later in the day so you can sleep in. Don't do it. You'll sleep through your classes in the afternoon and won't get your homework done. Corollary: You won't do it in the morning before class.

2. Do the homework/labs/papers/projects - whatever. You can't learn if you don't engage your mind - that's what homework's for. Tests are just a way to measure whether you engaged or not.

3. Study BEFORE you go to class. It's not what your used to I know. In high school you go to class and then go do homework. In college look at whatever the required reading is and do it before you get there. That way the lectures may actually be interesting and if your stuck on something you can ask about it. Believe me you won't score points with your classmates by a) asking stupid questions you should have read about already and b) asking about stuff you already covered because you weren't paying attention the first time. Nobody wants to spend any more time in that damn lecture than they absolutely have to!

4. Take a bunch of general ed classes or just stuff you want to take. Maybe even some stuff you're not sure if you'll like. Freshman year is about exploring. When you hit it you'll know. And it may not be what you expected I didn't declare a major until I was a junior.

5. Open your mind. Think about what you learned in Physics that illuminates what the hell Bryon was talking about in English Lit. Trust me it's there.

6. Learn good study habits and time management skills now. It's easy to get disoriented by all the seemingly free time. You'll learn later that you had stuff to do, you just weren't doing it. And there won't be time later when your buried in projects and working a crappy job on the side to survive.

7. If you think you have to cram for finals it's too late. You won't learn overnight what you were supposed to learn over the last 3 months?

8. Finally - enjoy yourself! It sounds counterintuitive but all the discipline is simply so you can focus on the stuff you really want to do!

Since nearly everyone has given advice about the education you will be getting at college and how to expand your mind and all, I'll give some practical advice. I just finished my first year and will soon be leaving for my 2nd year.

1. As soon as you know who your roommate is going to be, coordinate with them to find out who is bringing what and decide what you will be willing to share and what you want to keep for yourself. For example, you can probably get away with sharing a tv, phone, stereo, and fridge, but you might want to bring your own rugs, lamps, hair dryers, alarm clocks, and school supplies. Also coordinate your schedules as soon as possible- tell each other when you need to wake up and what your feelings on in-room studying are and set groundrules for when it's okay to let loose and have fun and when its time to get serious and give the other person some privacy to study or sleep or whatever.

2. Bring microwave food and microwaveable dishes (and the soap and a washcloth to clean them)- easy mac and popcorn are two that come to mind. Many colleges do not let you have stoves or open flames in the room or anything, but microwaves are acceptible, or provided for you. Sometimes you can get away with having one of those water pot things that you plug it in to boil water then you can make noodles or whatever from that. They are good for when you are stuck inside due to a freak snow storm or you just don't quite feel like getting dressed just to go out in the pouring rain to go eat on a weekend or when you get in late from some day-trip you went on and the dining hall is already closed but you are starving.

3. Take with you on the first day only the essentials. You can always buy more later and add to what you have, but don't bring more than you need. Bring only winter clothes for the fall semester (plus a few spring/summer clothes just in case) then switch when you come home over winter break. Bring your spring/summer clothes and leave behind some winter clothes. Dress comfortably when you go to class and walk around campus- don't bother bringing a lot of fancy clothes or whatnot with you- chances are you won't need it. Bring one or two good outfits and the shoes and accessories to match. You won't have enough room to store it all when you get to college. Only bring a few books to read- chances are you won't have enough time to read them all.

4. Depending on your campus, don't bother dressing up for class- wear comfortable walking shoes and comfortable clothes and bring various jackets for various weather conditions. Chances are you will be walking nearly everywhere for class. It's also a good way to lose the freshman 15 (I lost a few pounds my first year instead of gaining them because I walked a lot!!). Walk as many places as you can whenever you can. Not only does it help you lose the pounds you gain at dinner, but it tones your muscles and helps to build up your stamina and endurance and plus its cheaper than taking any public transportation or getting a ride from someone (gas money is ridiculous- especially for a poor college student).

5. Pick a place on campus for "study" and a place for "play". Try not to do any studying in the "play" areas, but you can play a little in the study area. What I mean by this is, if you choose to relax in your room and you find yourself just chilling everytime you are there, don't ever study in your room unless you have to. You will be very tempted to procrastinate- especially if the room is your roommate's "play" area too. Choose a quiet place or a place where a lot of people gather to do their own work- the library or a studio (if you are an architecture or art or engineering major or something or have a friend that is one) or even just a quiet corner on campus somewhere- the local cafe or in the rec. center. Always do whatever studying you have to do in that place. It is okay to have a little fun once in a while there, but if you get in the habit of doing mostly work there, then it will come to have a feeling of "studiousness" and it will be a place to retreat to when you have to finish those last few chapters of the book you are reading for that class in 10 min. :p

That's basically all I can think of for now. Those are just some things I encountered when I went to college last year. Perhaps someone else can add to what I have here.

I just finished my first year at university in the UK, so my advice might be a little different. In most uni's here, the first year does not count towards your final degree, so the first year is mainly for learning the rules, as long as you get above 40% total in each module you pass to the second year. We also don't get room mates (thank God). So my advice for going to university IS:

1. Remember to take things with you that you take for granted at home, or things that you use all the time but never think about. For example, a clothes horse to hang your washing up. Otherwise you will be hanging it on your curtain rail and that is never good, especially if you have a room mate, who on earth wants to see your underwear hanging everywhere?

2. DO NOT LEAVE STUDYING UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE!!!!!!! I know exactly how this feels and trust me, it is a horrible feeling. Not only are you likely to then fail the exam and therefore have to resit, but the panic will make you forget everything that you did know, the questions will seem twice as hard, and icy calm panic is not a good thing.

3. There is ALWAYS one more book you can look something up in, there's ALWAYS one more detail you can find. If there's a reference in a book, use it. Examiners and lecturers love good researchers. Use your initiative. Find things yourself. If you've been somewhere / done something in the past that is relevant, USE IT. The more good detail you've put into your work, the better it will be. At uni it is often easier to sacrifice work for a good time, but don't slack off. If you feel that you are going to do that, then do all your work as soon as you get it to leave more time for partying. It makes sense.

4. Don't mix your drinks. Don't leave your drinks unattended. In university, you'll be in contact with a lot more people from all over the place who you've never met, and you don't know if you can trust. In most cases, you will be living away from home without your parents or friends cosy protection. You need to look after yourself. Don't put yourself into any kind of dangerous situation just because there's nobody looking after you.

5. You only have limited spending money. Do not blow it all on clothes / alcohol / whatever, just because your bank account suddenly shot up £800. This money is for food, travel, rent, whatever. There is money left over, don't go mad with it. Most students get into financial trouble at least once because they aren't careful. One of my friends was -£1200 in her account because of pointless spending. Don't be like her, be careful with your money.

6. Unless you know your room mate / flat mates / whatever will give you your food back, DO NOT TELL THEM that they can take what they like, because it will not come back, and asking them for it back can seem petty and childish, to them as well as you. So don't do it.

7. Do not choose to study things that your parents think will be good for you. For the first time, you are on your own. You are making your own way in your life. It's time to grow up, take your responsibility. Listen to their advice by all means, but from now on you don't have to take it. However, again, be responsible. Any mistakes you make with your studying will be down to you, and to you alone.

8. DO NOT GET A CREDIT CARD!!!!!!! With your newfound freedom and money, it is all too easy to get caught up in debt from these, especially at a time when you sill be spending money like there's no tomorrow. I know people who were fine with money until they got a credit card at uni. They're a sure-fire way to instant debt, and besides, they are completely and utterly unnecessary.

9. REALISE that your mistakes are your own and not your parents. If you get into some kind of trouble, it's your own fault. You will begin to find that your parents are actually sensible after all when you go to uni. They'll have advice you can listen to. They want you to make your own mistakes, but remember they'll be there to help if you need it.

10. Do your work, but HAVE FUN!!! For most people here, the first year at uni is a time to learn the ropes. I reckon that I did less than a two weeks work the whole time I was there. i.e. less than 400 hours. Way less. The rest of the time I was having fun, but I was resonsible too, for the most part ;) my first year at uni was one of the best years of my life. Because I made it so.


And nobody posted this so far, but I'll put it here. This is a forward that was sent to me. AND EVERY SINGLE POINT IS TRUE!!!



YOU KNOW YOU'VE BEEN IN UNIVERSITY TOO LONG WHEN...

You actually like doing laundry at home where the washing machines work.

Two miles is not too far to walk for a party.

You'd rather clean than study especially if an essay is due.

"Oh shit how did it get so late!" comes out of your mouth at least once a night.

Parents' cooking becomes something you desire, not avoid.

You schedule your classes around sleep habits and soap operas especially neighbours and Hollyoaks.

You know the pizza boy by name and don't even need to read the menu.

You go to sleep when it's light and get up when it's dark.

You live for getting mail.

Looking out the window is a form of entertainment.

Prank phone calls become funny again.

You start thinking and sounding like your friends and your accent
becomes a hybrid of West Country, Surrey and general Northern.

Highlighters are the coolest things on earth.

Rearranging your room is your favourite pastime.

Rubbish cheap £1 shops are so cool.

The weekend lasts from Thursday to Monday.


BEFORE I CAME TO UNIVERSITY, I WISH I HAD KNOWN...

That it didn't matter how my first lecture was, I'd still sleep through it.

That I could change so much and barely realize it.

That you can love a lot of people in a lot of different ways.

No matter how 'cool' you were in school, no one here cares.

That if you wear polyester everyone will ask why you are so dressed up.

That every clock on campus shows a different time.

That if you got good a-levels, so what? It doesn't matter here.

That I would go to a party the night before an exam or essay due-date.

That you can know everything and fail a test.

That you can know nothing and ace a test.

That I could get used to almost anything found out about my friends.

That most of my education would be obtained outside of lectures.

That friendship is more than getting drunk together but that's still funny......!

That Sunday is a figment of the world's imagination.

That Psychology is really Biology, that Biology is really Chemistry, that Chemistry is really Physics and that Physics is really Maths.

That my parents would become so much smarter in the last few years.

That it's possible to be alone even when you are surrounded by friends.

Don't be dismayed at good-byes, a farewell is necessary before we can meet again, and meeting again, after moments or a lifetime, is certain for those who are friends.


TOP 10 REASONS THAT UNIVERSITY IS LIKE PRIMARY SCHOOL

10. You cry for your mother.
9. You cross the street without looking for cars.
8. Snack time is a necessity.
7. You bundle up for the outdoors without caring what you look like (because everyone else looks as stupid as you do).
6. You stay at home and play games with your friends.
5. You wear your backpack on both shoulders.
4. You wear big mittens.
3. Playing in the snow is a legitimate activity.
2. You take naps.
1. You look forward to cheese toasties.


amy

I am going to be a sophomore this year, and let me tell you what freshman year had it's ups and downs!

1. PLEASE PLEASE make sure you all talk to your room mate before going anywhere. If your room mate does not show up, try to find someone else you think you could get along with. My mistake was rooming with a girl who liked all of the things that I didnt. I mean, I had to but still, I wish I would have looked harder to find someone I could get along with better.

2. If your room mate is doing shit that is bothering you, and they will NOT stop after you talk to them about it, TALK TO YOUR RA or RHC. They are willing to help, and thats what they are there for. My room mate started drinking, drugs and partying 24/7 while I was trying to study or just have some alone time. I got sick of it and asked my RA to talk to her about roommate respect..but that didn't work out either. I was rather close to moving out, but things got better somehow.

3. Don't put stuff off for the last minute. It's cliche` but it's true. Especially essays. Essays are freaking hard enough to write without having to do it in a certain amount of time.

4. Meet people! You may be a shy person, but if you need to borrow something, ask your neighbor! Talk to the people living across from you. If they are doing something concerning the whole floor, join in. Have some fun!

5. I've been talking about room mates and now they should respect you. But make sure YOU respect them too. Don't do shit to annoy them, they can make your life a living hell.

6. For gods sake, use a freakin condom or other form of birth control if your gonna freakin have sex.

And..theres more but I dont feel like writing more out lol

You'd rather clean than study especially if an
>>essay is due.


haha, also, dont expect the pile of work to decrease the longer its stared at, trust me, it wont work.

>>You schedule your classes around sleep habits and soap operas
>>especially neighbours and Hollyoaks.

you forgot doctor quinn and murder, she wrote.;)

>>You know the pizza boy by name and don't even need to read the
>>menu
>>
>>You go to sleep when it's light and get up when it's dark.
>>
>>You live for getting mail.
>>
>>Looking out the window is a form of entertainment.
>>

these ones are unbelievably so true

>>You start thinking and sounding like your friends and your accent
>>becomes a hybrid of West Country, Surrey and general Northern.

or if your scottish you end up irish accented.


>>The weekend lasts from Thursday to Monday.
>>

or wednesday til monday. remember, sports gets wednesday afternoon free:D


>>That you can know nothing and ace a test.

>>3. Playing in the snow is a legitimate activity.


amen to these two:)


and now for my gems of wisdom.

1. no matter how much you think the people you've met are stupid, or how much you dont feel like socialising, do. uni is an extremely lonely place, and if you dont participate early in the year, the remainder will just be a mixture of boredom, depression, frustration and the lack of anyone to befriend will get to you.

2. you can never have enough coat hangers, these, along with an emergency supply of ciggarettes and blue tack make you popular with your flatmates and their friends.

3. go to your lectures no matter what. even if you may sleep in it, go to them.

4.take care of your diet. try and eat fruit and veg, simple things like adding salad to a meal can do you a world of good. plus your diet affects everything, sleeping pattern, energy to work etc.

I'm a senior in college this year, so I have a little insight for those of you leaving for college.

1. Don't expect college to be as easy as high school. Things are different now. College students are (hopefully) a better caliber of student than high school students, on average. College professors expect more. More studying, more research, more writing, more reading, more engagement with the subject matter, just more.

2. Don't put things off until the last minute. Pretend big projects or papers are due a week before they are, if you can, finish them early, leave time for editing, and EDIT. The first thing you write should never be the final thing you turn in, if you want to impress your teacher.

3. Take health situations seriously. If you are feeling ill, don't hesitate to see the school nurse or go to the doctor. Especially if you are living on campus, illnesses spread throughout dorms and what you thought was a cold may turn out to be mono or something serious like that.

4. Get one credit card and use it only for things you can afford. Pay off your balance every single month. Never let interest build up. This is imperative to start building your credit. Amy, I have no idea how the credit system works in the UK, but here in America those who have never had credit of any kind will have incredible problems getting a car loan or a mortgage in the future. Credit cards are not inherently evil, but spending money you don't have will hurt you in the long run. So only charge what you can pay off at the end of the month.

5. American students: File the FAFSA! You would not believe the kind of student grants and loans it will make you eligible for. Get to know your financial aid officers. They can, and want to, help you with your education.

6. Never drive drunk. If you get caught, you will lose your driver's license. If you hit someone, you might really hurt them. I spent four months of my life in a wheelchair because some underage idiot didn't realize he'd had too much to drink. Trust me, one drink is too much. And most mixed drinks, like cosmopolitans and margaritas, really count as three drinks. So be careful and don't drive if you're gonna imbibe. Or better yet, don't imbibe.

7. Don't have sex with people you don't know. You never know what lovely disease is lurking there, and if you get pregnant good luck getting a stranger to take responsibility for the baby. You may say, oh we'll use a condom and she's on the Pill, but mistakes happen. So don't have sex with strangers, or better yet, don't have sex. Children and STDs can really ruin college plans, I promise.

8. Don't "take a semester off." While a few people I know have managed to go back to school after taking a semester off, most people who do this never go back, and they're really sorry for it. Plus, it can affect your scholarship eligibility and stuff if you do. Just a thought.

9. Eat breakfast. And lunch. This is especially a problem for those who have classes all through the morning or through lunchtime, but eating three meals a day is vital in the battle against the freshman 15. Even, and perhaps especially, if you don't live on campus.

10. Really lean on your professors and academic advisors to guide you in what classes to take and what major to pursue, if you don't already know. Try to meet with them more than once a semester. Also, don't be afraid to see the school counselor if you have emotional problems. You don't have to struggle alone.

11. Don't forget to have fun, and don't forget that having fun doesn't necessarily involve sex, drugs, or alcohol. Sitting around with your friends in your pajamas and eating peanut butter out of a spoon and talking about boys is a whole lot of fun, believe it or not.

That's all I can think of for now. Oh yeah, and I've stickied this because it's not specific, but a broad thread that addresses the concerns of many EvBoarders.

I know I haven't been to college yet, but speaking as a High School senior who has been doing alot of research and going to colleges with my mother I'd just like to throw my two cents in to all the current High School seniors who are trying to figure out what to do.

...

And what I recommend more than anything, is to do anything you can to try and visit the prospective schools you are thinking about. No amount of information I could read on the internet about the school helps as much as visiting the school. I learned more from visiting than I could ever of learned online. And as someone who is going to major in the arts, and looking between Art Institutes and Universitys with art programs, it is almost a necessity to see their facilities.


I'm also a high school senior looking at colleges. Along with visiting schools, if you find a place that you REALLY like, you may want to look at what students say about the college, how life is really like there, because most schools will only show you what is good about it, not what is sucky, and what needs improvement and stuff. There is a book at Barnes and Noble I was reading about this... I can't remember what it was called, but as soon as I find it, I'll edit this. I read through some of the descriptions of some of the colleges i've been considering, and it tells you ALOT of stuff that they do not tell you at visitations. It is really helpful too. Tommorrow, im going to look at OSU, so yeah... I'm gonna see how I like it there.

I hope that (maybe) helped someone, haha!
--Shaina

Remember that all the other new freshmen are going to be in the same situation as you--they lost whatever popularity they had in high school, and they're looking to make new friends. So get to know the people in your dorm (if you're in one) and the RA etc. You'll have less problems with them that way. Don't be in a hurry to join a frat/sorority--make sure you know what you are getting into if you choose one.

You'll probaby have some elective classes that have nothing to do with your degree. If they will transfer, take some classes at a community college during the summer and save money.

If you get a job, make sure your employer understands that you can only work so many hours. Your studies are more important.

Now, who can offer advice to someone who has been out of university for years, but wants to go back for a Master's? :)

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Go online, and look for scholarshiops!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Contrary to belief, scholarships are NOT just for ot the pro football players or the kid with a 99% average. There are many MANY smaller scholarhips out there, some funded by the college/university themselves, but mostly privated funded. (Perhaps by people who attended the university and made a ton of $$$$$$$$, then decided to contribute to a scholarship at that university. Not sure, but that's my guess anyways.)

These scholarships are usually very specialized, for example, only people studying a certain program are elegible, etc. So if you look hard, chances are you can net at least one of these smaller scholarships (could be a few hundred bucks, could be over a thousand, but with student loans and everything, that lil bit of extra $$$ can really help.

For those of you who are applying to college and haven't gotten in yet, I have the following advice:

-don't be like me and go to a college that you don't want to just because it's the only place that you can afford. Instead, take some time off and do something like Peace Corps or Ameri Corps. It'll help you immensely in the future and will probably help you get scholarships that will pull that university bill down to a reasonable level.

-Do as much work as possible finding out what kind of college you want to go to so you won't have the horrific experience of getting somewhere and finding out that you hate it.

Once you're at college:

-If you put on tomorrow's clothes tonight, you can save yourself about 10 minutes in the morning. That's just long enough to eat the closest food item that you encounter after you wake up.

-Nobody cares about you or what you look like. So don't bother.

-If you get into coffee, try to limit yourself to less than 3 cups a day. By the middle of my freshman year I was drinking 6 cups a day and it was starting to jeopardize my health(building up a tolerance to caffeine is a bad thing. You want to be able to get the high with as little input as possible. Espresso isn't cheap).

-Some classes actually can be passed without attending on a regular basis, provided you have the right means of studying.

-shop at goodwill and thrift stores. It will make your life easier and keep your bank account healthy.

-Ultimately, academia is absurd and bears little corellation to anything that you'll have to deal with in the real world. So don't sweat it.

-If meeting new people at college is causing you to lose faith in humanity, stop speaking to people. You'll need every shred of optimism once winter sets in.

-Buy a stungun for the times when those pesky roommates get out of hand.

-If you don't have a job, try to calculate your living expenses for each month so that you know how much money you actually have.

-College is a game. Learn the rules and you'll do fine.

Don't always put your work first. I know it sounds silly actually, but university is meant to be fun as well as challenging, and if you always put your work first, you'll lose the fun side and panic about work too much.

I've seen it happen. These are the people who either:

a) have no friends except for the other workaholics
b) end up leaving because they put themselves under way too much stress

Work is definately important, but don't let it rule your life there.

As others have said, uni is not a popularity contest. That childishness is over, nobody gives a shit how popular you were in high school. Students are above that for the most part. Most people put themselves into debt to get to uni, the only people there are those who want to be there. So if you mess up their chances by starting a contest in any way for any reason, they won't thank you for it.

amy

I don't know if my contributions have been mentioned already (since everyone's posts are quite long in this thread), but I'll say them anyway.

I have a major degree in Computer Science and a minor in Math. University was a rude awakening compared to high school, but I learned a few lessons early on to make the transition smoother.

First and foremost, Do all the homework they give you, regardless of whether or not you have to hand it in. It's for your own good, and provides practice in whatever the subject is, and will make the final exam that much easier knowing you'll be going in prepared. You will have a lot less cramming in the end.

Secondly, just because attendance isn't taken in large theater type classes, skipping will be tempting. But you never know when an assignment will be handed out, when an important note will be made that you should have written down, etc. Do not skip classes.

Thirdly. DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES LET SHIT WITH A BOYFRIEND/GIRLFRIEND INTERFERE WITH YOUR STUDIES. Education and your future are far, far, far more important than some stupid crap with a significant other that will blow over in a day. My personal recommendation is that if a bf/gf can't handle you not being able to see them very often due to studying, and they complain about it, dump them. I'm dead serious. You have bigger fish to fry, and if they can't recognize or accept that, you are much better off without them. Trust me.

S'about all I can think of for now.

I
Do not skip classes.
When I was in graduate school I did a quick "back of the envelope" of how much it was costing me per class session. Came out to something like $400+ per class!! Whether I went or not!! I never skipped again.

I forgot to mention one thing: internships. Seek them out. They make a difference.

This is my college rant...

I've been in college two years now, and whether you're a commuter or you live on campus or you're an alien spawn going to college, this should all apply to you.

There are two basic rules to college that you must follow in order to succeed:

1. Go to class. The difference between freshmen that go out and party on Thursday nights, and seniors that go out and party on Thursday nights, is that seniors have learned how to suck it up... live with the after-effects... and get their butts to class. Do not skip. It's going to be really easy when you're sitting in your room and you're playing PSX5000 (or whatever the hell it is now) and you're kicking your roommate's ass at PongXtreme to just say, "Meh, I don't want to go to class, screw it." Well, I'm sorry to burst your bubble but you're going to have to put down the controller and get your happy ass to class. You need to be there... do not get in the habit of skipping or being absent.

2. Read the required texts. When a prof asks you to read a passage, do it. When a prof asks you to read an excerpt, do it. When you have five profs asking you to read twenty pages each from different books... get your thumbs out of your ass, and read the damn things. I'm so serious, it's really important to get a grip and understanding of all the readings you'll need to do. College is designed to deprogram you after high school. College teaches you the "right" way of learning... high school taught you the "uniform" way of learning... and most colleges are like, "Fuck that, the kids are smarter than that, and they don't need to be conformed into little mindless minions."

There's more and all that... I even have advice on how to make friends and get involved and how to enjoy college. So if anyone wants to chat with someone who's a little bit more their age about it (I just turned 18! Go me!)... feel free to PM me... but, lol... I have to follow my first rule now - and get my happy ass to class!

P.S. College blows, by the way... unless you like throwing your life away on homework - in which case it's pretty sweet.

End.

So yeah... Im kind of nervous about starting college and I really have no idea what to expect. Im a good student and all, but I dont know if ill be able to keep up...

Anyone have any advice that might help calm me down? Or should I be horribly worried?

Well, I was nervous too. But one thing you can do, if you haven't done it already, is to read some of the posts that were posted before you. You may not think they apply to you right now, but believe me, they will eventually.

Another thing you can do is just to go in there and take things one step at a time. It really isn't that bad. The more you know about it before hand, the better. Go visit the college before you go there, familiarize yourself with it. Customs and "college culture" will just be picked up along the way as you go along. Just be yourself and don't be shy to ask questions. You'll soon feel like you fit in before long.

Advice to be calmed down. Hmm, well, just don't let things get to you. Accept the fact that you will be going and whatever happens will happen. You have the power to guide whatever happens and bend it to your own way, but you have to take the hits of whatever comes- you just get to decide where and how they hit, so to speak. Don't be nervous at all. Feel free to PM me if you wanna talk more.

I'll throw in my expertise, such as it is...undergrad B.A. in English/Journalism and currently in grad school for my B.S.Ed. in Secondary Ed./History.

1. Like everyone says, go to class. I can't pretend that I always listened to this one...in fact, in my sophomore year, I rarely did...but someone is paying for those classes, whether it's you, your parents, the state, etc. You're just wasting money and your own time by skipping. P.S. You WILL not pass if you skip class. Notes will not help you. The book will not help you. Your teacher could really care less, unless you have a doctor's note.

2. Speaking of books...do not buy the books until the end of the first week of class. If you're like me, you get all excited when school starts, and you want to know exactly how much you are spending before the semester begins. There are some teachers who order books, and you never, ever use them. And at the end of the semester, the book that you paid $100 for, you will sell back for $5, and that's only if the teacher hasn't committed the heinous crime of ordering new text for the next year. Unless you know somebody who has taken the class before you and absolutely knows you use the book, hold off until the end of the first week, when you might have a better idea of whether or not you're wasting money.

3. Don't accept drinks or any other substances at parties from people you don't know, unless you see the drink being poured. There's a reason why nobody drinks from the "Mystery Cup" at parties.

4. Talk to your roommate. Even if he/she is shy, or if you are shy, chances are you will have something in common. Contrary to popular belief, the administration doesn't just throw out those little questionnaires after you send them in. My first roommate and I were so shy we didn't speak to each other at all. She moved out halfway during the semester. Junior year, we had to work on a project together, and realized that we actually had a bit in common. Things might have worked out, if we had both overcome being so shy.

And 5. When your parents drop you off at school after Columbus Day Weekend, don't go home again until Veteren's Day. This was what my parents did, and it was the best thing they could have done. Before Columbus Day, I was coming home all the time, and I was homesick. Being forced to sit around at school for a straight month made me leave my dorm room on weekends and develop a social life. I made friends and had a great time. It was the best thing that happened to me, college-wise. Besides graduating, I mean.

Have fun! College only happens once, and you'll never be so carefree again. Homework and papers aside, there's a sense of freedom that only comes when you're living on your own for the first time. Treasure it.

Some people say not to take time off, because you'll never go back. Well that might be the case if something comes up during your hiatus, but if you are a nerd like me, you'll go back. I took 2 years off, first pursuing a degree in photography...but then I realized that all the artsy fartsy types that I thought perhaps I could align myself with really got on my nerves. I'll save you from a rant.

Anyways, I think sometimes right out of high school you are not sure what you really want or need to experience. So don't be afraid to live your life to learn about you, and your life first.

Running back home all the time will not help you, although I'm guilty. It wasn't until I was stuck overseas that I really got to grow up.
The books thing is true, and I wish I had realized this sooner. For gen ed courses that don't really interest you and aren't that hard, pass on the book and save yourself some cash.
And relationships...somebody else posted about this. Listen to this one. My grades dipped because of guy bs and you know what? The only one who has suffered in the end is me. And if the bf/gf doesn't understand your schedule, and isn't in college themselves and their main interest is in video games, chuck 'em like a loaf of moldy bread. End of story.

Enjoy college. You're paying for it! And if you don't like the college you're going to, don't be afraid to switch. College is really cool. Especially when the professors say cuss words and you can chew gum in class.

Well i am now officially more than half way through my first year at Uni, and all i can offer for advice is to be organised.
Missing your tutes and Lectures will make you fall behind, and your lecturers wont care for your essay failing by 1% because you have not had the time to get to know them.
Everybody is there for the same reason, and the majority of people there are nice enough and will offer you advice and help.

hehehe i've been in college for a year now... honestly i didn't thought that i would survive, all the classes and the exams every 3 days, i even got 3 finals the same day,ok here are my two cents:

1)ALWAYS GO TO CLASS: no really, "oh if i skip one it will be fine" my college has a 3 missed classes rule, if you miss 3 classes, doesn't matter if you missed one last month or something like that, you're out of the semester, trust me in my major (med school) you do not miss a class, unless is computer, which of course you'll get back... oh and try not to fall asleep, teachers do see it and they'll keep that in mind, who knows if you'll need a little extra help later on, be nice to them it's not that hard.

2)STUDY: as much as you can, read all the books they tell you to read, some you're gonna hate, and some you may want to read again and again, it's great in class when the teacher asks for your opinion and you actually know what you're saying, they keep in mind how responsible you are.

3) try not to party so much in the week: come on who needs to party on a freaking monday? the next day you'll be a mess and the week is just getting started, you won't have the chance to study and even your own body won't be able to keep up with you.

4) make as many friends as possible: trust me you'll never know when you might need them to help you with whatever it is that you need.

5) exercise: yes maybe you think that you don't have the time, but trust me you'll gain a lot of weight if you start being lazy now, take at lest half an hour of your day and go out and walk, or use the gym, it's there for a freaking reason.

ok that's it, or at least it's all i can think of now...

now i have to go study...

peace...

I didn't think it was appropriate to start a new thread after I saw this one (I'm learning YIPEE!). Anyways, are there any Berklee college students on here that could give me some advice on what to work on for the audition (or even if I will be ready)? I'm going to be a junior this year, and I've been playing guitar for three years. Of course, I'm going to apply to other colleges (duh!), but I would really, really love to go to Berklee! I'm afraid that I might not be good enough because I mean they do produce some really, really talented musicians (Steve Vai, Al DiMeola, John Petrucci, et cetera). I really want to be great like them, and I think that going there would be a huge step to getting to that point. I just need to know what they're looking for...please message me or something. It would be greatly appreciated!

One thing I've learned already, and I haven't started school yet...

DON'T REGISTER FOR ORIENTATION OR SIGN UP FOR CLASSES LATE IF YOU DON'T HAVE TO!

It sounds like common sense, but I learned this the hard way, as I had orientation yesterday/today and found out that most of the classes that I wanted to take are closed, so now i'm having to BEG to get into an introductory dance class, and am in a ton of General Ed. Theater classes instead of math/psychology/whatnot because the classes that I wanted to take in these subjects were closed. I guess its a good thing that I'm taking the musical theater classes that I'm taking because I'm auditioning for their musical theater program next year, and I want to be prepared. And now I'm going to have to take my math/speech/acting1/lit classes next semester because I need those to move on in my major... It sucks a bit.

Also, if your school offers it, get into a learning community. Some schools have this where its a grouping of classes that go hand in hand, like, I have Intro to Theater and College English as a learning community and somehow it's supposed to work together. Idk. It sounds nice.

OH. And if you have to stay overnight, don't forget your bath stuff, lol. *hides*

And yes, I do realize that this was mostly just me complaining, haha.

That is all. :)

I live at home and commute to school and at my school parking is the biggest problem. I imagine its probably the same with all schools, i would suggest taking the bus, or train to school. Its way cheaper, and no need to get frustrated over parking. At my school you can take the bus for free, i'm sure other schools offer the same.

I go to a community college and I have been for a few years now. I like the class sizes and it is easier for the teacher to help you because that is what they are there to do but in bigger class sizes they can't as easyily. Don't be afraid to ask your teacher for help and don't be afraid to start off in a community college and then transfer to a four year university. I plan on transfering after I get an associates in nursing. If you get an apartment live with someone you know well and trust. Credit scores are important because they detrmine what kind of loans you can get, because they look at your credit score for mortgages, renting apartments, or buying a car. Pay off your card ASAP. I started with a student visa and I had it for two years then I upgraded to a cash back bonus award card and now I am managing three good credit cards. Don't be afraid to talk to classmates either you never know what could happen. My aunt made a life long friend in college and I met my fiance in college.

My first bit of advise is to get on a normal sleeping schedual. One that will allow you to get the school work you need to get done and won't leave you having an all nighter every day of the week. Sleep is very important and when pulling all nighters you are bound to sleep through class. I did it a lot my freshman year of college and paid because of it.

My second bit of advise is that if you find yourself far from where you want to be school wise. I am talking about bad grades, having to leave school for a bit and other things and feel like your are too old to start back up. You always have the opition to go back I for a while felt like at 22 I should of graduated already and felt stupid for letting things stall me of my goals of getting a degree. I have since learned that I have the drive now and any mistakes that I made I need to only learn from and not regret those mistakes