Starting college can be a daunting thought, but be reassured, PUC has you covered. You might not know where to start, what to know, or do, so here’s a list of things to know before starting college. 

1. Make sure financial aid, your class schedule, and your dorm application is all completed before you leave for school. 

2. Move in as early as possible! It’s a whole day’s work, and some. Check with your dean about the earliest time you can arrive. 

3. Whether you know your roommate or not, communicate with them before you share a room. This will sort out any confusion or concerns you two might have about your living arrangements and will give you a sense if you two are compatible.  

4. Keep your room clean. There will be days where your room might get a little messy, but even cleaning up a section of your room makes a difference. 

5. If you have time during the week to do your laundry, do it. Don’t wait till Sunday because that’s typically the time everyone is doing laundry, and it’ll be hard to find an available washer. 

6. Use your meal plan wisely. Students either go over their plan or not use it all up at the end of the quarter. 

7. Take care of your health. Drink a lot of water, eat fruits and veggies, and don’t eat a lot of junk food. Taking care of your health will not only make you feel good but make you perform better in school. 

8. Speaking of your health, exercise when you can. Even if it’s taking a longer way to class to get more steps in. 

9. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Make time for yourself by doing things you enjoy or simply getting some rest. Take care of yourself and always put yourself first. 

(If you would like to talk to someone, make an appointment at PUC’s Counseling Center– they’re helpful, and 1-6 sessions are free. Your professors also care about your mental health. If a class overwhelms you, let your professor know and they’ll find a way to assist you.)

10. Get enough hours of sleep. Your sleep schedule makes all the difference in your mood, energy, and performance in school, so don’t stay up late. Plus, no one enjoys being in class with someone snoring and it won’t look good to your professors as you nod off in class.