Starting out as a freshman in a new place in a university setting is one of the biggest shocks growing up. New college students no longer have high school friends clustered around for support, and mom and dad are not around to help on a day-to-day basis in most cases.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, one third of freshmen students can not handle the new demands of college life, and stop going to college. All of the quick changes can be overwhelming, but if freshmen keep their head screwed on the right way and don’t let the first semester’s homework get out of hand, they can start their college years on a positive note.
Basic Tips for New Students
Go to class. While there is a lot more freedom in college courses, it doesn’t mean students can avoid a class and show up on exam day and receive an A. Whether or not the professor takes attendance, students should go to class and take notes throughout each session. Studies from Michigan State University have shown a distinct correlation between high grades and attendance.
Form study groups. One of the best ways to meet people and get studying done at the same time is to work in groups. The University of Texas at Arlington has an organized program called Freshman Interest Groups that advocates study groups, so it is advisable to check with the advising center to see if there is anything similar. But study groups don't need to be official to work. Stop by the coffee shop with books with people from class and studying won’t be such a chore.
Take time to talk to the professor. There may be university events where it is possible to meet faculty, but it is also possible to have an individual meeting that is more personal. That person in the front of the lecture hall is there to help, so take advantage of the potential for mentorships while in school. Students should pay attention to the listed office hours and go visit the professor if they need extra help or career advice.
Take Care of the Body as well as the Mind
Be sure to get enough sleep. While studying all night is common during exam periods, it is detrimental to students' ability to concentrate if they are trying to take a test on only two hours of sleep. It is always better to study several days than it is to try to cram only the night before.
Don't drink too much. This is probably over used advice, but it is important nonetheless. The National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism found that twenty five percent of students report problems in their academic careers related to drinking. Many students take advantage of their new freedom by drinking all the time. This can endanger lives as well as each student's ability to be academically successful in the first year.
Be sure to get some exercise and eat right. There is always the "Freshman Fifteen" to consider. Many new college students gain weight because they are not used to having so much freedom with their diets. Try to avoid junk food and hit the gym for swimming, aerobics, or the weight room. One of the easiest ways to work on nutrition is to try to eat a colorful diet. Students who have purchased a meal plan should select a wide variety of green, yellow, red, purple and even blue fruits and vegetables from the cafeteria selections.
And last but not least, have fun. Remember college is a new life stage and many people there are just starting the experience as well. Don't forget that it is important to realize that the college experience is about more than just getting a good job after graduation. Take part in campus activities and clubs, take courses for the sheer fun of it, and enjoy the time as a student.
Other Helpful Resources
The Keys to Freshman Success from Students
What to Teach Your Kids before They Leave Home
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