By Rana Waxman
There are a few college do’s and don’ts and that apply whether you learn in-person, online or a mix of both. Making mental post it notes of the ones that resonate with you could help you make friends, get good grades, and enjoy the sometimes grueling, sometimes fun journey towards a college degree. Here are some dos and don’ts for college students you might want to take note.
#1 DO apply for scholarships and financial aid
The first of the college do’s and don’ts is a great way to keep your tuition costs down – do apply for scholarships or other financial aid. Plenty of providers offer college scholarships for different majors, interests, sports, and qualities. So, do keep an ongoing search and apply mission going. And, if you received a scholarship, certainly understand what is involved to maintain it.
#2 When it comes to textbooks, DO look for second hand
Second of the do’s and don’ts in college campus life is to check for used textbooks. Often, these do not change from one year to the next and you may score a good deal on an approved edition. Message boards are often the go-to for these deals.
#3 Even if you didn’t study in high school, DO study in college
Another dos and don’ts for college students: Even if you did not have to study in high school, DO plan to study in college. Many professors expect you to do your readings for class ahead of time and these can pile up. So, make sure you schedule some time every day to stay on track as you DON’T want to fall behind.
#4 If you don’t know, DO ask a question
Asking questions is a great way to improve, learn and grow. Do know when to ask for help. If you find that you keep failing the quizzes, then it’s time to seek out Student Support Services or email your professor and set up an appointment for extra help. On that note – DO make note of (virtual or in-person) office hours.
#5 DON’T put it off
Whatever “it” is – study, scheduling a tutor, getting a tooth looked at, or writing a term paper – DO be an “I got it done” person, and DON’T be a procrastinator. Waiting until the last minute may work for one thing, but college life expects you to multi-task on your own. Think of your calendar as your new BFF and carve out schedules and alerts for key tasks and events.
#6 DO think of college as a marathon, not a sprint
Remember that other students are looking at the do’s and don’ts in college campus life and are making time to study and prioritize grades. As a result, you may find that making real and lasting friendships doesn’t always happen overnight like in the movies. Do remember to be and do YOU and let the rest evolve over the next few years.
#7 Have a comfort zone but DO get out of it
Your dorm room should be a good place to sleep, eat, unwind, study, etc. but don’t hole up in it and then complain college is boring. Do join clubs, the gym, and try out some college parties as you figure out what activities and groups you enjoy. Even if you don’t like the club, or the party is lame, you will leave having gotten to know something about yourself that you can use to find other events that make you thrive.
#8 DO invest your time wisely
Don’t squander your time partying 24/7 (see: MTV’s College Life) but DO have some fun. Whether it is a party, meeting a new friend for a meal, or getting to know your college town, spend some time de-stressing. Just know when to rope it in so you can wake up for those morning classes.
#9 DON’T forget that you are not alone
One of the most important dos and don’ts for college students is to remember there are other people at school who are having a hard time with something. It could be drama over a roommate, depression, anxiety over midterms, or a family crisis. If you find yourself feeling blue, reach out ASAP to someone near or far who is there to listen, including a college mental health hotline.
#10 DO expect a learning curve
Living at home often comes with scheduled meals and your favorite foods. It could take some trial and error to eat, study, prepare, navigate the roomie situation and so on. You will also have to get to know your own learning style, the teaching method of each professor, and even – how long you need to get from one class to the next. Don’t fret. Instead, look at it as a journey that may have some bumps on the way to the destination. Enjoy the ride, take it in and learn as much as possible about (yes, your major) and your evolving self!
Need a cheat sheet for the dos and don’ts in college campus?
DON’T
- Procrastinate
- Overdo the party scene
- Stay in all the time
- Forget others are going through similar experiences
DO
- Look for ways to cut down expenses (scholarships, aid, used textbooks)
- Study, schedule and plan your time
- Be a joiner (gym, club, study group)
- Ask questions and seek help
- Expect a learning curve and be kind to yourself