4 answers
Danika
Student
Thornton, Colorado
1
Question
Asked
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What is one thing you think students often overlook when getting ready for college?
I want to make sure I am doing all the right things on my journey to college as I start this new chapter in my life.
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4 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer, TRIO Program Administrator
1009
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
In my four decades in working at colleges and universities, I have observed that the most important thing to know for incoming students is where to find resources on campus, especially when you require assistance or help.
One thing that I have always told students is become engaged in what is commonly called "Campus Navigation."
Many colleges have campus tour programs, which provides an initial introduction to the college campus, but I recommend that all students go well beyond the campus tour.
I recommend getting a map of the campus and going for several visit. Visiting various location on campus can help, if you need assistance or feel lost when you arrive.
Many college professors have office hours, which enables current and future students to visit, so they can discuss their future college major or the possible path they should take towards attaining a degree.
Many campuses have college employment offices, which provide information and possible opportunities for employment and future internships.
I also recommend visiting the library, to check out where the best study locations are on the campus.
Checking out the locations of your future classes and becoming well acquainted with campus building can help avoid any issues when you arrive.
Find the buildings which house the various departments, like financial aid, admissions, college security and parking, student life, and campus housing, can also help.
The more knowledge you have of the college campus, and where resources can be found, the less apprehensive and confused you will be when you arrive on the campus to start your college experience.
One thing that I have always told students is become engaged in what is commonly called "Campus Navigation."
Many colleges have campus tour programs, which provides an initial introduction to the college campus, but I recommend that all students go well beyond the campus tour.
I recommend getting a map of the campus and going for several visit. Visiting various location on campus can help, if you need assistance or feel lost when you arrive.
Many college professors have office hours, which enables current and future students to visit, so they can discuss their future college major or the possible path they should take towards attaining a degree.
Many campuses have college employment offices, which provide information and possible opportunities for employment and future internships.
I also recommend visiting the library, to check out where the best study locations are on the campus.
Checking out the locations of your future classes and becoming well acquainted with campus building can help avoid any issues when you arrive.
Find the buildings which house the various departments, like financial aid, admissions, college security and parking, student life, and campus housing, can also help.
The more knowledge you have of the college campus, and where resources can be found, the less apprehensive and confused you will be when you arrive on the campus to start your college experience.
Kazi Rubayee
Oriental medicine health professional, Acupuncturist, Holistic health practitioner
82
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Kazi’s Answer
The things usually overlooked are mostly preparing for the non-academic side of college: life skills and support systems.
Such as budgeting, time management, emotional health, how to reach out for support when you need it, learning style,
Basic life skills: cooking simple food, doing laundry, and setting boundaries with a roommate.
These are the strong, helpful skills you need to start your college journey confidently, emotionally, and academically.
Best,
Such as budgeting, time management, emotional health, how to reach out for support when you need it, learning style,
Basic life skills: cooking simple food, doing laundry, and setting boundaries with a roommate.
These are the strong, helpful skills you need to start your college journey confidently, emotionally, and academically.
Best,
Julayne Thomas
Professor at Ivy Tech Community College
28
Answers
Muncie, Indiana
Updated
Julayne’s Answer
Hi, Danika!
I've been an instructor for a long time and what I have noticed is students first starting the college journey often don't prepare themselves to study properly. Since online education has blossomed over the past decade, far too often I see students struggling with the online environment, i.e. they put it off until the last minute because it's only online! Then, they fail the class because they didn't prepare properly.
Pick up some good time management skills and study skills now and when you do begin your college journey, you will be better prepared to succeed. Good luck to you!
I've been an instructor for a long time and what I have noticed is students first starting the college journey often don't prepare themselves to study properly. Since online education has blossomed over the past decade, far too often I see students struggling with the online environment, i.e. they put it off until the last minute because it's only online! Then, they fail the class because they didn't prepare properly.
Pick up some good time management skills and study skills now and when you do begin your college journey, you will be better prepared to succeed. Good luck to you!
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hi Danika. I think one thing that many students overlook is mental and emotional preparation. It's important to be ready for the emotional challenges that come with starting college, not just the academic or social ones. Taking time to get mentally prepared can help make your transition smoother.
You need to understand that college can feel overwhelming at first. It's not just a new place to study, but a new life with different people, schedules, and responsibilities. Many students expect everything to go perfectly, but it's normal to feel lost or stressed at times. You might experience homesickness, pressure to do well in school, or struggle with balancing everything. Knowing that these feelings are normal and part of the process can help you handle them better.
One way to get ready is by practicing self-care before you leave for college. You need to build habits now that focus on taking care of your mind and emotions. For example, you can set aside time to relax by doing things like reading, exercising, or spending time with family. These habits will help you cope with stress later.
It's also important to have realistic expectations about college life. College isn't just about doing well in classes, it's also about learning how to balance your studies, making new friends, and adjusting to a new lifestyle. Things might not go perfectly right away, and that's ok. You may not find your close friends immediately, or it might take a little time to get used to your new schedule.
Wishing you all the best.
You need to understand that college can feel overwhelming at first. It's not just a new place to study, but a new life with different people, schedules, and responsibilities. Many students expect everything to go perfectly, but it's normal to feel lost or stressed at times. You might experience homesickness, pressure to do well in school, or struggle with balancing everything. Knowing that these feelings are normal and part of the process can help you handle them better.
One way to get ready is by practicing self-care before you leave for college. You need to build habits now that focus on taking care of your mind and emotions. For example, you can set aside time to relax by doing things like reading, exercising, or spending time with family. These habits will help you cope with stress later.
It's also important to have realistic expectations about college life. College isn't just about doing well in classes, it's also about learning how to balance your studies, making new friends, and adjusting to a new lifestyle. Things might not go perfectly right away, and that's ok. You may not find your close friends immediately, or it might take a little time to get used to your new schedule.
Wishing you all the best.