How I survived College: Tips for Success Inside and Outside the Classroom
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How I survived College: Tips for Success Inside and Outside the Classroom
I graduated from college in 2015 as a 30-year-old married mother with one son. I understand that most college students are 18 and experiencing life on their own for the first time. How do I know? Because I dropped out during my initial attempt. Back in 2003, with a full-ride scholarship to Towson University in Towson, Maryland, I was determined to graduate. However, the pressures of my first year, working to earn money, and other responsibilities overwhelmed me.
Fortunately, after five faithful years in the U.S. Army, I was given a second chance at earning my degree.
Earning a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration helped me recognize all the mistakes I made the first time around.
As the initial excitement of college acceptance letters wanes, the reality of gearing up for this new phase begins. The shift from high school to college is a major milestone for college-bound students, necessitating meticulous planning and preparation. Here are some vital tips I've learned that can help students succeed both academically and socially.
Academic Preparation
Develop Strong Study Habits:
Time Management: Create a study schedule that balances coursework, extracurricular activities, and personal time. Tools like planners or digital calendars can be invaluable.
Active Learning: Engage with the material through note-taking, summarizing, and discussing topics with peers. Active participation in class can enhance understanding and retention.
Utilize Campus Resources:
Academic Advising: Regular meetings with academic advisors can help students stay on track with their degree requirements and explore academic interests.
Tutoring Services: Many colleges offer free tutoring services. Encourage students to seek help early if they struggle with a subject.
Stay Organized:
Course Materials: Keep all course materials, such as syllabi, textbooks, and notes, well-organized. Digital tools like Evernote or OneNote can help manage information efficiently.
Assignments and Deadlines: Use a planner or digital app to track assignments and deadlines. Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable steps can prevent last-minute stress.
Personal and Social Preparation
Build a Support Network:
Connect with Roommates and Classmates: Building relationships early can provide a sense of community and support. Encourage students to participate in orientation events and join student organizations.
Stay in Touch with Family and Friends: Regular communication with loved ones can provide emotional support and a sense of stability.
Develop Life Skills:
Financial Literacy: Teach students how to budget, manage expenses, and understand financial aid. Apps like Mint or YNAB can help track spending.
Self-Care: Emphasize the importance of maintaining physical and mental health. Encourage regular exercise, healthy eating, and seeking help when needed.
Explore Extracurricular Activities:
Join Clubs and Organizations: Participating in clubs, sports, or volunteer activities can help students develop new skills, make friends, and enhance their resumes.
Attend Campus Events: Encourage students to attend lectures, workshops, and social events to broaden their horizons and make the most of their college experience.
Preparing for Independence
Learn Basic Life Skills:
Cooking and Cleaning: Basic cooking and cleaning skills are essential for living independently. Encourage students to practice these skills before leaving home.
Laundry: Ensure students know how to do their laundry, including sorting clothes, using the washing machine, and understanding care labels.
Understand Campus Safety:
Familiarize with Campus Security: Know the location of campus security offices and emergency contact numbers. Encourage students to download any campus safety apps.
Personal Safety: Teach students to be aware of their surroundings, travel in groups at night, and use campus transportation services if available.
Manage Stress and Time:
Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices like meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises can help manage stress.
Balance: Encourage students to find a balance between academics, social activities, and personal time to avoid burnout.
Supporting Local Families: Iconic’s Initiative
This year, Iconic is stepping up to support local Georgia families by raising $3,000 to provide school supplies. This initiative aims to ensure that every child has the necessary tools for a successful school year. By donating to this cause, you can help make a difference in your community and ease the financial burden on families in need.
Health and Safety Tips
Sexual Health:
Consent: Emphasize the importance of mutual consent in all sexual activities. Teach students to communicate openly and respect boundaries.
Protection: Encourage the use of condoms and other forms of protection to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies. Many campuses offer free or low-cost sexual health resources.
Drug and Alcohol Safety:
Moderation and Awareness: Educate students about the risks associated with drug and alcohol use. Encourage moderation and awareness of their limits.
Safe Practices: Advise students to never leave their drinks unattended and to avoid accepting drinks from strangers. Encourage them to stay with trusted friends and look out for one another.
Overall Health:
Regular Check-Ups: Encourage students to schedule regular medical and dental check-ups. Many campuses have health centers that provide these services.
Mental Health: Promote the importance of mental health and encourage students to seek help if they feel overwhelmed or anxious. Many colleges offer counseling services and mental health resources.
Conclusion
Preparing for college is an exciting yet challenging time for students and their families. By focusing on both academic and personal preparation, students can build a strong foundation for success. Encourage them to embrace this new chapter with confidence, curiosity, and a willingness to learn and grow. With the right preparation, college can be a transformative and rewarding experience just like mine was a number of years ago.
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