College can be overwhelming with being in a new place, surrounded by new people, and having real-life responsibilities. While you start getting advice from your family and friends about college, we wanted to share some advice with you too. Here are our 15 tips for getting through your first year of college. 

Use Your Time Wisely 

College comes with a lot of freedom, but also a lot of responsibility. As you figure out college life, don’t abuse the freedom you have. Know your limits and don’t stretch yourself to the point of breaking down. Remember your main responsibility is to do well in school, so split your time equally between your academics and social life.

Explore Campus 

Since you’ll be attending orientation, you’ll get to campus before the rest of the student body arrives. Take time to explore the campus so you don’t get lost on your first day of school. Check out the buildings, see where your classes are located, find a study spot, and know where important offices are. 

Stay Organized 

If you’re not an organized person, now is the time to learn. Staying organized in college keeps you on top of your schoolwork, exams, and other things you have going on. Being disorganized will have you losing important papers or files from class, which could harm you academically. 

Get Enough Sleep 

Getting enough sleep will keep you attentive in class and get you through a busy day of school. Make sure you get a good night’s rest because falling asleep in class is not a good look. 

Ask Questions 

As you navigate a new environment, you might have questions about certain things. Don’t be afraid to ask questions to your advisor, professor, dean, or faculty member. They are here to help you and want to help you, so don’t be shy! The more you learn from your first year of college, the more you’ll be able to get through it. 

Compromise With Your Roommate 

Compromise with your roommate on the things you both don’t agree on. Be considerate of your roommate’s feelings and opinions, and show that you’re hearing them out. 

Be Mature 

You’re in college now, which means it’s time to start acting like an adult. Of course, there is a time and place for fun, but as you start your career path, it’s on you to make important decisions regarding your life and education. 

Get Involved 

Get involved at least one way at school. Join a club, organization, or intramurals. If you play an instrument or enjoy singing, think about joining the orchestra, symphonic wind ensemble, or choir. If you’re an athlete, try out for one of the sports teams. Becoming a part of a club, organization, or group gives you the chance to meet people and make friends. 

Stock Up On Food

Make sure your dorm room is stocked with food and drinks. There’ll be days where you don’t have enough time to go to the dining commons and long nights of studying, so having your favorite snacks, drinks, and quick meals in your room will be a lifesaver. 

Save Money 

As tempting as it is to get fast food or eat at a restaurant, save your money for the occasions where eating out is necessary. Especially if you like online shopping, control yourself and wear the clothes you already have. Save money on more important things. 

Be Yourself

As you go through your first year of college, remember to be yourself. Don’t feel that you need to change who you are to be accepted because people will accept you just as you are! 

It’s Okay Not Having Everything Figured Out

It is 100% okay not having everything figured out! College and adulthood are all about finding out who you are and what you want in life. It’s okay if you don’t know what to major in, what kind of job you want to have, or what your interests are. In time, you will figure it out. 

Make Time For You

College is stressful and will take a lot of energy out of you. You have to make time for yourself to do things you enjoy and simply relax so you don’t burn out.

Keep In Touch With Home

Don’t forget to call your family and stay in touch with friends from home. There will be times where you’ll get a bit homesick, and talking to your loved ones can make you feel much better. 

Stay Close To God 

The most important thing to do is to stay close to God. He will help you get through any worries, struggles, and anxieties you carry. With God by your side, anything is possible!

At PUC, we will do everything to make your college experience worthwhile. We will answer any questions or concerns you or your parents have and get you well-adjusted on campus. You are only a freshman in college once, so make the most of it! As you go through your first year of college, experience new things, learn from your mistakes, gain knowledge in different areas, make lifelong friendships, and create unforgettable memories. You got this!