2 answers
kyndal
Student
Columbus, Mississippi
1
Question
Updated
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“What steps should I take during my first year of college to set myself up for long-term success—academically, financially, and in building the skills I’ll need for my future career”?
“I want to make sure I start college with strong habits and a clear plan. I’m hoping to learn what resources, opportunities, and strategies I should prioritize during my freshman year so I can stay on track academically and prepare for my long-term career goals.”
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2 answers
Armando de Jesús Herrera
Sr. Project Engineer
41
Answers
Roswell, Georgia
Updated
Armando de Jesús’s Answer
Hi Kyndal,
Starting college is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming with so many decisions to make. The first year is your foundation. It’s when you establish habits, explore opportunities, and set the tone for your academic, financial, and career success. By being intentional now, you’ll position yourself for long-term growth and confidence throughout your college journey and beyond. Here are some steps that I took during my time in college:
✅ 1. Academics: Build Strong Habits Early
*Master Time Management: Use a planner or digital calendar to track classes, assignments, and exams. B
*Attend Office Hours: Build relationships with professors. They can become mentors.
*Use Campus Resources: Tutoring centers, writing labs, and academic advisors are there to help you succeed.
*Form Study Groups: Collaborating with peers improves understanding and builds a support network.
✅ 2. Financial Planning: Lay the Foundation
*Create a Budget: Track income (scholarships, part-time work) and expenses (books, food, entertainment).
*Avoid Unnecessary Debt: Use credit responsibly and understand interest rates.
*Seek Scholarships & Grants: Continue applying even after freshman year, many are available for upperclassmen.
*Start Saving: Even small amounts matter. Consider opening a high-yield savings account.
✅ 3. Career & Skill Development: Think Ahead
*Explore Career Services: Visit your college’s career center early for resume reviews and internship guidance.
*Join Clubs & Organizations: Leadership roles in student groups build communication and teamwork skills.
*Network: Connect with alumni and attend career fairs. Start building LinkedIn and keep it updated.
*Develop Transferable Skills: Focus on communication, problem-solving, and adaptability
*Consider Internships or Job Shadowing: Even short experiences give insight into your future career.
✅ 4. Personal Growth & Balance
*Prioritize Health: Sleep, exercise, and mental well-being are essential for sustained success.
*Set Goals: Break them into short-term (semester) and long-term (career) objectives. Review and adjust regularly.
It looks like you are in the right track as you are asking this type of questions, but remember, progress comes from consistent effort and a willingness to learn. Stay curious, stay proactive, and don’t hesitate to seek help when needed, your future self will thank you.
Starting college is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming with so many decisions to make. The first year is your foundation. It’s when you establish habits, explore opportunities, and set the tone for your academic, financial, and career success. By being intentional now, you’ll position yourself for long-term growth and confidence throughout your college journey and beyond. Here are some steps that I took during my time in college:
✅ 1. Academics: Build Strong Habits Early
*Master Time Management: Use a planner or digital calendar to track classes, assignments, and exams. B
*Attend Office Hours: Build relationships with professors. They can become mentors.
*Use Campus Resources: Tutoring centers, writing labs, and academic advisors are there to help you succeed.
*Form Study Groups: Collaborating with peers improves understanding and builds a support network.
✅ 2. Financial Planning: Lay the Foundation
*Create a Budget: Track income (scholarships, part-time work) and expenses (books, food, entertainment).
*Avoid Unnecessary Debt: Use credit responsibly and understand interest rates.
*Seek Scholarships & Grants: Continue applying even after freshman year, many are available for upperclassmen.
*Start Saving: Even small amounts matter. Consider opening a high-yield savings account.
✅ 3. Career & Skill Development: Think Ahead
*Explore Career Services: Visit your college’s career center early for resume reviews and internship guidance.
*Join Clubs & Organizations: Leadership roles in student groups build communication and teamwork skills.
*Network: Connect with alumni and attend career fairs. Start building LinkedIn and keep it updated.
*Develop Transferable Skills: Focus on communication, problem-solving, and adaptability
*Consider Internships or Job Shadowing: Even short experiences give insight into your future career.
✅ 4. Personal Growth & Balance
*Prioritize Health: Sleep, exercise, and mental well-being are essential for sustained success.
*Set Goals: Break them into short-term (semester) and long-term (career) objectives. Review and adjust regularly.
It looks like you are in the right track as you are asking this type of questions, but remember, progress comes from consistent effort and a willingness to learn. Stay curious, stay proactive, and don’t hesitate to seek help when needed, your future self will thank you.
Jerome Dees Jr.
Sales Professional and Networking Expert
833
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jerome’s Answer
Build a schedule for studying and get it on your calendar. Stay consistent and use the reminder that not studying just cheats future you out of the life you want to have.
Join clubs and study groups to build out a friends group and have some accountability. The right people in your circle can have a huge impact on your success.
Join clubs and study groups to build out a friends group and have some accountability. The right people in your circle can have a huge impact on your success.