Things You Should Know in College

Going away to college can be a huge adjustment for many people. It's the first time you are living on your own and becoming independent. This can also be a time when you realize how much you relied on your parents and wish you would have learned a few things while at home still. Here are a few things you will want to make sure you leave home for college.

One of the most important things you should when leaving home for college is how to manage your money and finances. When living at home, it can be easy just spend the money you have and rely on your parents to fund your wallet, but that isn't the case when your away from school. Yes your parents may still give you spending money or put money in your checking account but you need to know how to budget. If you are using a debit card or checking account make sure you are filling out your check register and don't over draw your account. Overdraw fees will quickly add up and put a huge hole in your pocket. Also be aware of where all your money is going and learn to say no to activities occasionally and going out to eat all the time.

Another thing many college students don't know how to do when they arrive at college is laundry. It may seem like an easy thing and not a big deal but you don't want to be the one at college with the smelly clothes. In my experience it is a good idea to do laundry at least once a week and make sure you know the right settings to use on the machine. You don't want to end up shrinking or dying your clothes because you didn't know how to do laundry. When in doubt wash your clothes in cold water to prevent shrinking or mixing of colors.

Many college students don't know how to study because in high school they breezed by without it. There is also a large difference between college classes and high school classes. In college there is a lot reading in your texts book and teaching yourself the information. Often times what the teacher lectures on in class and what is in your text book are different, so its important to know how to read your text book and gain information from that reading. Also you should know that many teachers encourage students to ask them for help and more than willing to give it out. You should also check with your school to see if they offer free tutoring services.

Something else that may be helpful is knowing where to go for help. Are you having trouble with your roommate? You should go to RA or RD. Also there is usually a health center on campus and free consoling if you need those. Many colleges are full of people who are willing to help you in anyway they can, you just need to ask for help!

These are just a few tips to help you in your first year at college away from home. It most likely will be hard adjustment for some and these things can help make it easier