The new academic year has started, and you are thrown into the world of essays and late nights. Whether you are a returning college student, or starting for the first time, here are some helpful tips to make your college experience easier.
1) Talk to people!
Making friends at college isn’t always easy. However, you are all in the same boat! Having friends makes your college life much more enjoyable.
Asking questions at various events is definitely a good place to start. What major are they doing? Where do they live? What music do they like? Even as I began my third year of studies, I found I can still strike up a conversation with someone I haven’t seen since freshers week. Be nice and friendly to everyone.
Joining clubs and societies are also a great way to meet like-minded people. You already share an interest with them, and just let the conversation flow from there.
Your course mates will also be a big part of your college life. You might be involved in some group projects, and so building bonds with them are a must. Your lecturers may have some team-building exercises planned, take advantage of them!
2) Stay organised
I have found that being organised at college makes it so much easier. Make sure you know when your deadlines are. Do parts of your assignments here and there, this way you are not in a mad rush a few days before it is due. If it helps you, getting an academic planner is a really good way of keeping track of what work you have to be getting on with.
It isn’t just in class that being organised helps. Even simple tasks like making your bed every morning and doing your laundry allows you to get into a good headspace. Plus, staying on top of chores means there is more time for other aspects of college life, such as studying or hanging out with friends!
3) Ask for help
Another thing that really helped me stay on track was attending every class that I am able to go to. Contact hours with your professors are so valuable. Attending classes allow you to get a better understanding of the topic, and this will help you in your assessment. You can ask your professors any questions, they are there to help you!
If you feel too shy or embarrassed to ask during class, you can wait until the end or drop an email. Your lecturers want you to succeed, there is no shame in asking for help. Knowing what you are doing really improves your college experience, as as your confidence builds. You are then able to produce some great projects and grades.
4) Exercise
Staying active whilst being at college is great for both your physical and mental wellbeing. Gym memberships are always a good place to start. If the cost is too much, there are plenty of other ways to keep fit, such as yoga, running and at home workouts. Joining sports clubs are also a good way to move your body, but also have fun with your friends. Even just getting yourself out if the house and going for a walk can really improve your mental wellbeing. Find a nice footpath, listen to music or a podcast – this is a nice break in your day, and can definitely improve your mood.
5) Make time for yourself!
College life can be rather overwhelming. There is a lot of pressure to socialise and study, get good grades, get a job, take part in clubs and societies, go to parties… the list goes on. However, there is nothing wrong with taking a moment to reset. Lazy days are okay. Get a cup of tea, pick up a book. Cosy up with your favourite show. Call your friends and family. Early nights are not frowned upon!
There is also nothing wrong with going back home. Spending time with loved ones can take the stress away. I have found that dedicating time to myself, whether it be a walk around the park or a trip to the bookstore has made me happy, and is a good way to unwind.
6) Eat well
Another thing that puts you in good place, physically and mentally, is eating well. Having a balanced diet means that you are taking care of your body. Fuelling your body with good and healthy food is very important for having a productive college experience. You don’t get tired, and having a balanced diet means that you are consuming the vitamins you need for the long study days. Plus, eating healthy food makes you feel good!
If you are in self-catered accommodation, make sure you get some fruit & vegetables in your meals. It is very easy to forget. Meal prepping is an effective and fun way to incorporate the important food groups into your diet.
Don’t skip breakfast! It is very important not starting your day on an empty stomach. Classes can be long, you don’t want to get tired before you have even started!
7) Budget
One of the most helpful tips that I was given in regards to college life was budgeting. Keeping on top of how much you are spending is very useful. Again, if you are in self-catered accommodation you will have to pay for your own food, so be wise! Doing a big food shop in one go is sometimes more cost-effective than buying little and often. Coupons, special offers and loyalty cards will be your best friend. Also, most shops have a student discount. Bring your student ID when you go shopping to take a fraction of the price away!
8) Explore the area
Something I found that is wise, but also fun part of being at college is exploring the local area. Finding out where the closest supermarkets are is good for food shops. Locate the library for any late-night studying. Browse some local eateries so you can go with and or family who visit. Is there a cinema? A leisure centre? Check it out with some friends, it is a good way to socialise and get to know the area you are studying in better.
9) Decorate your room!
You will see plenty of videos of dorm rooms on social media, and you will find that they are all heavily personalized. I think decorating your room is actually quite important. It is your space, so you want it to feel nice and cosy, but also, like you.
Bringing pictures of your friends and family back home definitely helps when feeling homesick. Bring some nice bedding, some fairy lights and most importantly, your teddy bears! This is where you come back to after a long day. It’s your home away from home.
10) Be true to yourself
Finally, I think one of the most important things you can do at university or college is to be true to yourself. Your college experience is definitely time for you to figure out who you are. And if that is somebody who doesn’t go to parties and prefers to stay home or go to the gym, that is absolutely fine. You probably won’t stick with the first people you meet in freshers week. I didn’t, but over the years I have made some really good friends, from all walks of life. You will find people who accept you for who you are.
I hope this helps, good luck!
