Make the most of your college journey – Part 2

Since we talked about how to make the most of your summer after high school to feel prepared for college, it's time to talk about what to do when you get to campus. If you did not read our previous blog post, we recommend you do that before reading this one. Once you are on campus and you start your journey, we want to share some advice for your first few months on campus.

1. Focus on finding a balance.
   It’s important to get your homework done and maintain good grades, but don’t miss out on experiences because you’re constantly studying. On the flip side, maybe don’t go out the night before an exam. It’s important to find a healthy balance that works for you!
2. Take advantage of campus events and opportunities to connect with other students.
   The first few weeks on campus are great for fun activities and meeting new people, and your college will likely host different social events to meet new people. Even if you’re scared - go! You never know who you can meet, or what may intrigue you.
3. Say ‘YES’
   Especially as you first get to college, try to avoid turning down opportunities/activities unless they are truly not interesting to you. It’s okay to get involved with many different clubs and organizations at the start.
4. Make friends in your classes.
   Peers are great assets to your academic success. They can cover you for notes and announcements if you miss a class; they can study with you for homework or exams; they can be valuable to your success in the class. Consider talking to the person next to you in class: as daunting as initiating that conversation is, the mutual support will pay off for everyone.
5. Use academic support.
   Going to office hours or using peer tutoring is not a poor reflection of your academic caliber. They exist to help you succeed, so don’t be afraid to use them - it doesn’t count against you. After all, why else do universities set aside a budget to fund these academic support services? If you missed a point during a lecture, have a question about a problem set, or just wish to build familiarity with the professor, go to office hours or visit a tutor, and don’t be afraid to ask for more help if needed. We promise: they don’t bite.
6. Explore professional development opportunities.
   This is not an urgent requirement, but also look out for opportunities geared towards your next step after college. The best way to know if a career interests you is to learn more about it. So take advantage of events and resources your college has to offer, and don’t be afraid to speak to more seasoned professionals. Remember, they are there for you and your success.
7. Having a physical outlet for stress can be good.
   Whether it’s the gym, running, playing basketball, or just going on a walk, having a physical activity that you enjoy and that is built into your weekly routine is a great way to destress and focus on something outside of school.
8. Don’t sweat the small stuff.
   Even the big stuff isn't as big as it may seem. Didn’t get the grade you wanted in your midterm? You probably won’t even remember what that grade was next semester. Take a breath and move forward.
9. Avoid comparing yourself to others.
   If you do the best you can do, that is what matters. Everyone has a different story and it’s not comparing yourself to a filtered version of someone else.
10. Call your family and friends back home!
    Staying in contact with your family and friends is a great way to tackle homesickness. They want to hear from you as much as you want to hear from them.
11. Trust yourself
    You were accepted into college and you’re here for a reason. Don’t let imposter syndrome get the best of you. You deserve to be here and you are capable!
12. Have fun and enjoy your college experience
    Your college experience will be a rollercoaster of good and bad times. Always remember to be YOU and make the most of your experience. Have fun, learn and get involved!!!

Thank you to our Student Advisory Committee members

Esther Aduamah, Student at Olin College of Engineering
Esther is a first-year student at Olin College of Engineering studying biomedical engineering. As someone who was a first-gen student for the longest time (congrats to Esther’s Dad, who just graduated!). Esther uses the opportunity of being on Common App’s Student Advisory Committee to show how to properly utilize the resources given to her.

Marissa Carper, Student at the University of Maryland
Marissa is a freshman at the University of Maryland studying computer science and cybersecurity. Coming from a rural area, she has a unique perspective on how students find and access resources like Common App. In her free time, you can find Marissa lifting weights at the gym, eating Chipotle, or hanging out with her friends.

Zhuoli Xie, Student at The University of Texas at Austin
Zhuoli is a second-year student at The University of Texas at Austin, studying computer science and mathematics. As a first-generation college student from an immigrant and low-income background, Zhuoli appreciates the opportunity to serve on the Common App Student Advisory Committee to help people like him find their way toward a fruitful and rewarding college career. During his free time, he enjoys exploring the city, playing badminton, or experimenting with various tech stacks and gimmicks.