College is a dynamic and pivotal chapter in life, filled with both excitement and challenges. Whether you are navigating finances, staying on top of academics, or figuring out how to do things in college, every student encounters experiences that shape their future. Knowing these 20 essential things can help you, as a college student, thrive throughout your college years.
1. How to Pay for Things in College
Understanding how to manage finances is crucial during college. Many students are handling money independently for the first time and might not be familiar with budgeting. Learning how to pay for things in college is a skill that will help you through your academic years and beyond. Start by creating a monthly budget that includes essentials like rent, food, transportation, and textbooks. Use tools like Mint or budgeting apps to track your spending.
Also, explore scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and part-time jobs to reduce financial strain. Some students even find opportunities for freelancing, tutoring, or campus jobs that offer flexibility and a steady income. Understanding how to apply for financial aid, student loans, and grants is critical in helping you manage your tuition costs.
2. How to Stay on Top of Things in College
Being organized is the key to thriving in college. The volume of work can feel overwhelming, from keeping up with assignments to balancing social commitments. Students often wonder how to stay on top of things in college. Start by using a planner or digital calendar to schedule your week. Prioritize assignments based on deadlines and difficulty, making sure to leave room for personal activities and relaxation.
Breaking larger projects into smaller tasks makes them easier to manage. It’s also a good idea to create study routines that work for you—whether it’s studying for 30 minutes every day or dedicating weekends to catch up on readings. Staying organized helps you avoid last-minute cramming and unnecessary stress.
3. The Freshman 15 – Avoiding Weight Gain
The infamous Freshman 15 refers to the weight gain that many students experience during their first year of college. This weight gain typically results from unhealthy eating habits, stress, and lack of physical activity. College dining halls offer an abundance of food choices, often leading students to overeat or snack excessively. To avoid this, aim for balanced meals with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and proteins.
Incorporate exercise into your daily routine, even if it’s a simple walk between classes or a quick workout session in your dorm. Most colleges offer free or affordable fitness centers. Avoid consuming too much late-night junk food and sugary drinks, which are common causes of weight gain.
4. Understanding College Drinking Culture
Drinking habits among college students are a common topic of conversation, especially when it comes to social gatherings and parties. While alcohol consumption can be a part of college life, it’s important to practice responsible drinking. Current studies show that binge drinking rates among college students remain at between 30% and 40%. Knowing your limits and avoiding binge drinking is crucial for your safety and health.
Drinking responsibly also helps you maintain academic focus and avoid regrettable decisions. If you choose to drink, be aware of campus policies and local laws regarding alcohol. Surround yourself with friends who respect your decisions and don’t pressure you into excessive drinking.
5. How to Handle Stressful Things in College
The college experience can be incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with numerous stressors. There are many stressful things in college, including academic pressures, social dynamics, and the challenges of living independently. Learning how to manage college stress is essential for success and well-being.
Developing healthy stress-management techniques like yoga, meditation, or mindfulness can significantly improve your mental health. Regular exercise also helps reduce anxiety and improve focus. Utilize campus resources such as counseling services to talk to professionals about any stress or anxiety you’re experiencing. The earlier you address stress, the better you’ll be able to manage it.
6. Mastering Study Skills
In college, you don’t just need to work hard—you need to work smart. Students often struggle with adjusting to the increased academic workload. Learning how to study efficiently can make a significant difference. Use strategies like spaced repetition, which involves reviewing material over increasing intervals of time, and active recall, which forces you to retrieve information from memory rather than passively reviewing notes.
Forming study groups with classmates is another great way to engage with material and clarify difficult concepts. Take advantage of campus resources, like tutoring centers, that can provide additional academic support.
7. How to Make Friends and Build a Support System
Building a solid support system is crucial for thriving in college. It’s important to form relationships with people who understand your struggles and motivate you. Whether it’s fellow students, professors, or campus staff, the support of others can greatly enrich your college experience.
Get involved in clubs and activities that interest you to meet like-minded people. Being part of an organization will make your campus feel smaller and more connected. Don’t be afraid to initiate conversations with peers and faculty—your relationships will grow stronger over time.
8. How to Pay Off College Loans and Debt
Most students leave college with student loans. Understanding how to pay for things in college and eventually pay off student debt should be a priority. Start by researching your loans and understanding the terms. If possible, make small payments on your loans while you’re still in school. This reduces the amount of interest you’ll have to pay after graduation.
Consider income-driven repayment plans, which base your monthly payment on your salary after graduation. Look into loan forgiveness programs, particularly for graduates entering public service fields like teaching or nursing. Commit to learning about how money works because studies show that many college students lack financial literacy.
9. How to Do Things in College Efficiently
Navigating the logistics of college life can be tricky. Learning how to do things in college efficiently will save you time and energy. For example, create routines for your daily activities like meal prepping, doing laundry, and grocery shopping. This will reduce last-minute scrambles and keep your schedule manageable.
Additionally, embrace technology to streamline your tasks. Use apps like Todoist or Trello to organize your assignments, and digital tools like Google Drive to keep all your materials accessible in one place. Doing things efficiently means you’ll have more time to enjoy the social and academic aspects of college.
10. The Coolest Things in College Dorms
College dorms are your home away from home, and the environment you create there can impact your comfort and productivity. Having the coolest things in college dorms can make dorm life more enjoyable. Consider investing in items like a mini-fridge for snacks, cozy bedding for relaxation, and smart lighting to set the mood while you study or unwind.
Make your space reflect your style with posters, plants, or photos from home. Organization is key in small dorm spaces, so invest in storage solutions like under-bed bins or shelving units. Having a well-organized and comfortable dorm can enhance your college experience.
11. How to Network with Professors and Peers
Networking isn’t just for professionals—college is an excellent time to start building your network. Forming relationships with professors, peers, and campus staff can help you academically and open doors to future opportunities. Networking with professors can lead to research opportunities, recommendation letters, or guidance on your career path.
Make an effort to attend office hours and participate in class discussions. Building relationships with your peers is equally important. These connections can lead to study groups, support systems, and long-term friendships that extend beyond college.
12. Budgeting in College
Managing money in college requires discipline and planning. Knowing how to pay for things in college involves creating and sticking to a budget. List all your income sources, such as savings, financial aid, or part-time job income, and break down your expenses into categories like rent, food, textbooks, and transportation.
Track your spending using budgeting apps like YNAB (You Need A Budget) or spreadsheets to ensure you’re living within your means. Don’t forget to set aside some money for emergencies. Sticking to a budget prevents debt and financial stress, allowing you to focus more on your academics and social life.
13. How to Stay Healthy
Maintaining your physical and mental health is essential for thriving in college. Stress, poor eating habits, and lack of sleep can take a toll on your well-being. Combat these issues by developing a consistent routine that includes regular exercise, balanced meals, and adequate sleep. Most colleges offer health and wellness services, such as counseling or fitness programs, so take advantage of them.
Avoid the temptation to pull all-nighters or skip meals due to a busy schedule. Remember, staying healthy helps you perform better academically and enjoy your college experience to the fullest.
14. The Importance of Self-Care
Self-care is critical in maintaining mental and emotional well-being, especially in college where students face pressure from academics and social life. Establishing a routine of self-care practices like journaling, meditation, or simply setting aside time to relax can help you manage stress. Taking breaks and prioritizing time for activities you enjoy will keep you energized and focused.
Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if needed—many colleges offer free or low-cost counseling services. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as academic success.
15. Freshman Sophomore Junior Senior Transitions
The college experience evolves as you progress through different stages, and knowing how to adapt during each phase is crucial. As a freshman, you may be focused on adjusting to college life, making friends, and exploring new experiences. Moving into sophomore year often comes with a better understanding of your major and academic expectations.
By junior year, you may be starting internships or preparing for post-college plans, while senior year is the final stretch where you