Basic Survival Tips

1) You’re here to learn

No matter what people tell you, you’re at college to learn new things.  Don’t think you’re going to college to party 24/7. But partying is a very important of the "college experience." 

2) Make friends

You should make all the friends you can in college because they will probably help you in the future whether it be in getting jobs, or starting a business (business partners), or just friends for life.  Try and make friends with the same major so that you can study in your free time.

3) Cope with Peer Pressure

Your high school days are over and college is where you’re now an adult.  If you find people trying to get you to try things or do things you don’t want to do, don’t do it just to be “cool”.

4) Watch for strangers

Most colleges are so big that you will always meet new people everyday. Never let anyone come into your dorm room or apartment unannounced.  This should be a no-brainer.  If you do have people coming in your dorm that you don’t know about, watch them carefully because they may take your personal belongings.

5) Try to be close in class

The closer you sit in the class, the more you’re going to comprehend.  If you find yourself in the back, you may find it hard to read the board or hear the professor. Once again, try to be involve in class and outside of class as well. 

6) Buy cheap books

NEVER buy your books from the school bookstore.  You usually don't need the same book after that year. Instead, use services online where you can get the books for a cheap price.  Use Amazon, Ebay and other services. Saving a little here and there for textbooks can lighten your parents' or you pocket. 

7) Don’t always eat the cafeteria food

Just because you’re paying for the cafe food, it doesn’t mean you have to eat it. Although experiences told me that you should eat cafeteria food about 3-4 times a week. I got so much money leftover in my account that I had to buy bulks of Redbulls. Once you pay for the cafe food, you will not get refund after the first semester is over. This is a warning. Get off campus once in a while and go eat some real food, you won’t regret it. 

8) Tour your campus

You’re most likely going to be on this campus for the next four years.  When you get there, start going out there and exploring not only the campus but the town around there (if there is one). Getting to know the vibe around your college will definitely help you in the near future. 

9) Don’t do things at the last minute

You’re going to get big projects in college. Don’t wait until the last day to do your final essay for Literature class.  Instead, take your time, do your research and get a good grade. Procrastination is inevitable but using your time wisely will save you. There is barely any extra credit work in college, unlike high school. Big projects are a HUGE percentage of your grade so make smart decision. 

10) Be social

In between classes, you’re going to find yourself with some free time.  Try and find some clubs and activities around campus where you can entertain yourself. Furthermore, college is where you want to make your connections that will, hopefully, be use to you in the future. 

11) Get a Visa Debit Card

A debit card is a lot easier than cash.  If you lose it, you can just go to your bank and cancel the card. Your money will still be there. Watch what you spend with your debit card though. Since you are not handling with money on your hands, you will likely overspend. Visa Debit Card is WAY SAFER than Credit Card. Never get a card on campus for that free shirt.  Instead, do your research online.

12) Don’t worry about money just yet

Books and tuition are going to look expensive but let’s look at it this way.  If you’re going to college to make $60,000 a year, you’re going to be able to pay it off fairly quick.  If you end up quitting, say hello to retail jobs and awful hours.

13) Know your teachers

It never hurts to meet up with your teachers after class or even before.  Try and bond with teachers that specialize in your major.  They can end up being a great source in the long run when it comes to jobs and advice.

14) Get a job

Do you want to move back home when you get back from college?  Probably not.  Let’s find a job nearby campus and work 20 hours a week or so.

The list can keep going on and on but I just highlighted a few tips that you should use when you’re about to hit the college campus.  College is not easy but if you survived, you will most likely be successful. If you have any tips you would like to suggest, please comment below.