Tag Archives: College tips

Advice, New / Prospective Students

What I Wish I Knew My Freshman Year

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Heading into your freshman year of college is both exciting and nerve wracking. You’re going to a new place filled with new people and experiences. While everyone’s freshman year experience is unique, there are some general words of wisdom from upperclassmen that every freshman should hear before they go to college. Here’s what I, a senior at Millersville, wish I knew my freshman year of college:

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1. Make relationships with your professors

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Professors are there to help you however they can, along with your advisor. Reach out to your professors with questions you have about their course(s), or just general questions you might have about applying for jobs, getting on track for graduation, which classes to take, how to succeed in school, and so on. Making connections with professors will be beneficial to you during and after college, so start reaching out to them!

2. Give yourself time to adjust

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How you study in college will most likely be different from how you studied in high school. There’s more independent work in college, so you’ll be responsible to do more individual work outside of class. Your first semester may not go as you planned, and that’s totally okay! Each semester you’ll learn more about how you study and get work done. You’ll get better at managing your coursework over time, so don’t panic if it takes you a bit of time to get used to college courses.

3. Create a budget for yourself

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I definitely spent more money than I thought I would my freshman year of college. From going out to local restaurants to buying Millersville merch, my bank account looked pretty depressing when summer came around. I’d highly recommend making a budget for yourself and only spending a certain amount of money each week on things that aren’t necessities. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go out and treat yourself every now and then, just spend your money wisely.

4. Being an undecided major is totally fine – so is changing your major

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When I went to college, I felt pressured to pick a major and stick with it. I didn’t want to go into college without a plan. Once I got there, I realized that it’s perfectly normal to major undecided or feel uncertain about your major once you take some courses. If you’re not sure what you want to do with your life, it’s okay! Your time in college is meant to be used to find out more about yourself, what you enjoy, and what you want your future to look like. Take advantage of this time and set yourself on the path you want to be on.

5. Enjoy every moment, because time flies

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Don’t take your freshman year of college for granted. Make the most of your time on campus and create memories that will last you a lifetime. Take advantage of everything you can, because it won’t be long before you’re in a cap and gown. Get involved on campus and in the Millersville community while you can. Spend time with people and go out to different stores and restaurants in Lancaster city – or just have a night in and watch Netflix, pop some popcorn, and enjoy yourself! Just try to make every moment meaningful and take advantage of every opportunity that the ‘Ville has to offer.

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Academics, Lists

Helpful Studying Tips

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Studying is not the most fun activity to engage in. It is, however, extremely important as a college student. Since it isn’t fun it can be hard to focus while studying making it pointless. Here are a few tips on how to form good study habits:

Take Good Notes

Taking good notes isn’t exactly easy for most. Try to take notes on the key points in class and the textbook/readings. You don’t want to take notes on information that you are not going to need. If you aren’t sure you understood what the main points were in a lecture, then go and see your professor during their office hours. You can always ask to record the lecture, but you will need the professor’s permission first.

Keep Organized

Keep some sort of a planner or calendar to make time management easier. By doing this you can keep track of your classes, extra activities, and work schedule. Then just add in your homework and you are all set.

Another tip you can follow is putting sticky notes into your textbooks. This will make it easier to go back later and see the key points you took from that page.

Turn OFF your electronics

I know this may be hard, especially since for most of your homework nowadays you need your laptop but trust me it is better without the distractions. When it comes to your laptop, make a rule that you won’t go on any distracting websites such as social media and/or streaming sites. I have distracted myself many times by listening to music or telling myself one more episode of a tv show.

As for your cell phone, turn it off. You won’t need it to do your homework.

Don’t Cram for Tests

It can be tempting to put off studying until the very last minute, but it doesn’t help you. Try studying a little bit each day. This will help you not to be overwhelmed as well as help you retain the information.

Find the Perfect Spot for you

Everyone has a different preference about where to study. Some want it quiet with as few people as possible. Some prefer the hustle and bustle of a coffee shop. Some like to have music playing while they study, some need it absolutely quiet. Try and find the best study spot for you by trying a few different spots.

And Finally Take a Break

You do not need to sit for hours studying. In fact, it is best to take a break here and there to clear your head and not get overwhelmed. Personally, I watch an episode or two of a TV show I have already seen. This makes it easier to keep myself from getting distracted. If I were to watch a new TV show that has me hooked I may not go back to my studying.