How to Survive Your Freshman Year is a valuable guide, chock full of a wide variety of tips to help students transition from high school to college. Potential students will hear directly from current college students in twenty chapters covering easy topics (such as what to pack) and harder topics (such as how to have fun while staying safe, college scene dating and sex) which increase awareness. Even parents enjoy this light read, which offers up ideas for topics to discuss with their students - perhaps now when freshmen come home for Thanksgiving break - or throughout senior year in preparation for those heading off to college.
Here are a few quick favorites:
What to Pack - pjs with good coverage, a tennis ball/frisbee as a conversation starter/way to meet people, a planner, a first aid kit, and of course the intangibles like good judgment, patience, a positive attitude, a strong sense of self, and an open mind
On Leaving Home - give a quick hug and drive away, have a plan ahead of time for how often and when you will call
Managing the First Week - check out where to go for classes the night before, participate in orientation activities to meet new people/see who you connect with
Academic Tips - meeting with your adviser regularly, knowing how many credits you need to be considered full-time (affecting financial aid and many other things), when the last day to drop a class without receiving a W (withdrawal) notation on your record is, staying on track for graduation in four years
Using your Free Time Wisely - volunteering, doing your part to change the world, starting a club, balancing new friends/old friends/family, being open to new adventures (road trips, vacations, and studying abroad)
Suggestions for Savvy Use of Social Media and apps that help keep you on track - no posting after drinking, pros/cons of “friending” your parents
Making and Saving Money on Campus - fun campus jobs (refereeing for intramural sports, becoming a test subject), minimizing fancy (costly) coffee drinks and having a budget, finding the free food at campus events
Social Scene - dating v. hooking up, always having a buddy with you, and not leaving drinks unattended
Staying True to Yourself
This book is full of advice, so you may enjoy reading it or gifting it to a new (or soon to be) college student!
Confident College Planning helps students and families by providing support throughout the entire college selection process, including exploring majors, making college lists and campus visits, reviewing and tracking applications, essay inspiration and editing, reviewing funding strategies, and advising for successful college transitions. Contact nancy@confidentcollegeplanning.com to discuss how I can best support your family in this important journey.
