Tips for the New College Co-Ed

So here it is, your first year of college, life on your own. Your parents have just dropped you off and moved you into that cubicle of a room you'll call home for the next academic year. What now? Friends? Haven't made them yet. Classes? You don't even know where the dining hall is, let alone your 8:00am classroom. What to do first? Hopefully by now your roommate has arrived, and the two of you have looked one another over and neither have gone chasing after their parent's SUV's, begging to go home. If conversation doesn't come so easily for you, don't fret; there are various ways of breaking the ice.

First, you can always ask your roommate if they'd like to split a pizza, you can even invite the neighbors to join, make a gathering in the commons area. Note: That's the area located near the stairs or elevators with chairs, meant for reading, and tables, meant for studying. There's an awfully good chance that the chairs and tables will not be used for this activity for the first few weeks of school, so it's always better to hit up the library.

Another icebreaker for the first day can be all about the dorm room. Figure out how you want to decorate the place, after all, it's your new home! Remember to be open-minded and to communicate with your roommate, this is their new home as well. If you're tired of the room already, suggest a self-guided campus tour. Check in with your resident advisor, or personnel within the dorm, there should be a campus map nearby you can take with you.

It is always a good idea to figure out the location of your classes BEFORE the first day of class. Campus will be a jungle, and it is easy to get overwhelmed on your first day, what to wear, what to bring, how not to trip down a flight of stairs in a large lecture hall. There is quite a bit to consider. Therefore, preparation is key.

Another way to prepare is to actually read the syllabus handed out by your professors. Many students decide to blow off the first few days of school, opting for parties instead. Believe me, there is time enough for parties. Yes, socializing in an important aspect of college, but don't rush into anything, make sure you are on track in terms of grades, or you won't be in college long enough to legally attend keg parties.

Because everyone else is in the same situation, you may meet people who seem a little off their rocker. This is most likely because they are under stress, and trying to pull themselves together. There are however, many strange strangers out there, so don't loan out your car keys, or laptop. Don't be afraid to say no, use the old "my parents would KILL me if they knew."

If you have any difficulties with a roommate or another person in the dorm, don't hesitate to talk with you resident advisor. Their job is to ensure that you are safe and comfortable. Not everyone is going to get along with his or her roommates, some are able to come to an understanding, oftentimes relocating is necessary. The faculty in the dorm facilities anticipate this, let them know the specifics of your case, they'll help you figure your way through.

Dorm life is very different, shower shoes are a requirement, so is locking your door at night. Remember, the more organizational tools you arrive with, the better you can make your dorm room situation. You don't need a big screen television, you'll get used to the small one. Speak with your roommate; figure out who will bring what, make a detailed list. Purchase a shower caddy; make use of your doors to hang storage devices, purchase extension cords and surge protectors.

In all my years at college, I have to say my one regret was not approaching my professors when I was lost in the subject. I attended a small, private, all-girls high school, and therefore state university was completely overwhelming. I figured I was on my own. Late in my education, I realized this wasn't the case. Professors are naturally intimidating, most likely because standing in front of several hundred people everyday can be intimidating for them, therefore they must keep a level of composure, often misinterpreted as arrogance. GO TO OFFICE HOURS, even if you don't have questions. Read the material BEFORE the lecture, that way the lecture is already a review of sorts.

Above all, remember to be safe. College parties are great, but keep in mind that alcohol and drugs are dangerous, eventually your parent's words will make sense. Don't stay at home on a Friday night, but be careful when you do go out. Don't worry about being shy, you'll find your niche. And remember, work hard, study hard, get good sleep and HAVE FUN!