Countdown to college: How to thrive in freshman year / LJWorld.com

Archive for Tuesday, November 18, 2008

McClatchy Newspapers

November 18, 2008

Surviving your freshman year can be dicey. National statistics show that more than 30 percent of college freshmen do not return to the same institution for their sophomore year.

Whether you're starting college next fall or need a fresh approach before tackling your second semester, here are some suggestions to help make the most of freshman year.

¢ Get involved. It's a sure way to beat isolation. Being with like-minded students is also a great way to make friends. Try something new or different be a spectator at an under-appreciated sport, etc.

¢ Manage your time. Playing hard and then playing catch-up doesn't work. Most freshmen require some adjustment to the increase in expectations and independence and the decrease in structure and parental nagging.

¢ Take care of yourself. Staying up late, eating junk food and chugging caffeine are part of college, but let moderation be the guide. Getting sick at college is no fun; very few friends will take care of you like your mother. Stay healthy with a diet of real food, decent sleep and exercise.

¢ Stay organized. You often start out the semester with great organization and good intentions but the bad habits creep in, the mess piles up and then you can get too far behind very quickly. Create a system that plays on your strengths.

¢ Know the prof. Being anonymous won't help you. Get to know the professor or teaching assistant, even in a large lecture class.

¢ Seek out services. Colleges offer tutoring, counseling and career services.