Now that all of the graduation ceremonies and celebrations are coming to a close, many incoming college freshman may be wondering, what should I do before school starts? At CAA, we love to pass on the lessons we learned during college. The first thing that comes to mind is attending orientation. Although orientation may seem unnecessary, this event introduces you to your new college environment and gives you valuable information about housing, registering for classes, and signing up for work study. Orientation is also a great time to meet new friends before schools starts! By the time orientation is over, make sure you are on track to meet all of your outstanding requirements, such as taking placement exams, getting vaccinations, or completing entrance counseling for your loans. Once you’ve registered for classes, check your college email account for any messages from professors. You may have a reading assignment before class begins. Once those things are taken care of you should start working on your dorm room. Research the housing options and get excited! Get in contact with your roommate before move-in day. Discuss who is going to bring what and also make sure you will be able to fit everything in your dorm room. Check your college’s website to find out what you can and cannot bring. The list usually includes things like candles, toasters, and pets. Before you leave for college, you should also discuss transportation to, from, and on campus with your parents. Find out if freshman are allowed to have cars on campus and if you can afford a parking sticker. If the campus and surrounding city are fairly accessible, consider bringing a bicycle. CAA also suggests you learn how to use the local public transportation system. CAA suggests you also contemplate the level of your life skills and correct any deficiencies soon. If you’ve never done a load of laundry, learn how. You should also sit down with your parents to make sure you are comfortable handling finances like staying on budget and balancing a checkbook. Another good skill to learn before leaving for college is the basics of cooking. A healthy menu and lifestyle is known to reduce stress and the infamous freshman 15. Finally, at CAA, we want you to remember why you are going to college in the first place. Be sure to find a good study area and some study partners at the beginning of the school year. Know where you can get tutoring help as well. Be sure to consult your advisor before every semester, to ensure that you can graduate in 4 years. Leave time to join clubs and organizations that are not only fun but help you network with others who may help you in your future endeavors. Remember, there won’t be anyone telling you when to wake up, when to go to class, when to eat, when to sleep, or when to study. This is your life, your education, and you will get out of it what you put into it. Good luck!
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