College: that exciting, pivotal chapter in your life where you will embark on a journey of self-discovery, academic growth, and newfound independence. It is a time when you will forge lasting friendships, explore new interests, and lay the foundation for your future career. But before you pack your bags and dive headfirst into this incredible adventure, there are a few crucial things you should know.
For some people who were college students before, college is a world of the unknown, full of surprises, challenges, and opportunities. While it is impossible to predict every twist and turn along the way, there are certain nuggets of wisdom that can make your transition to college life smoother and more fulfilling. In this blog, you are going to answer the question, "what I wish I knew about university?" or learn things you wish you knew before heading for college, drawing on the collective experiences of students who have walked this path before you.
So, whether you are a wide-eyed high school graduate or a seasoned student looking to enhance your college experience and campus life, this guide is designed to equip you with the knowledge and insights on how to prepare for university.
So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready for an insightful journey through the essential lessons that will empower you to make the most of your college years. Embark on this adventure and ensure you are well-prepared to navigate the exciting, sometimes daunting, but always transformative world of university life.
1. Be prepared to be treated as an adult
One crucial piece of advice that many students wish they had known before heading off to college is the expectation of being treated as an adult. In college, especially your freshman year, it is the transition period where you will be responsible for your academic success, personal well-being, and decision-making. Professors and administrators expect you to manage your time effectively, attend classes regularly, and advocate for yourself when facing challenges. This newfound independence can be both liberating and overwhelming, as it comes with the freedom to make your own choices, but also the consequences of those choices. As early as you are in your freshman year, learn how to balance newfound freedom with responsibilities. It is a critical skill that will serve you well throughout your college classes and beyond college years. Embracing this transformation from a high school student to an independent person can help you make the most of your college experience and set a strong foundation for your future.
2. Research possible college degree
Before heading off to your freshman year or first term in college, one of the things you wish you knew was the importance of researching possible college majors from different colleges. Choosing a major is a pivotal decision that can significantly impact your academic journey and future career prospects in the long run. The choice of schools and colleges do matter also on the track you will be leading into. Without proper research, you might find yourself in a major that does not align with your passions and career goals, leading to dissatisfaction and potentially changing majors later on. Taking the time to explore various majors, courses, speaking with professors and academic advisors, and even seeking internships or volunteer opportunities in your areas of interest can help you make a more informed choice. By doing so, you can set yourself on a path that not only aligns with your talents and interests but also enhances your overall college experience and sets you up for success in your chosen job after graduation. So, do not underestimate the power of thorough research when it comes to selecting a college major – it is a decision that can shape your future in profound ways.
3. Get involved in extracurricular activities
As a first year student, maybe you are thinking what will do you do after classes or how you will have meaningful activities other than schools. College is not just about hitting the books; it is an opportunity to explore new interests, make lifelong friends, and develop essential life skills outside the university. Extracurricular activities offer a platform to do just that. In your freshman year, a lot of clubs or organizations will invite freshmen to join them during freshers week. Whether it is a club related to your major, participating in sports, or volunteering for a cause you are passionate about, these activities can enhance your college experience in countless ways. They provide a sense of belonging, help you build a well-rounded resume, and teach you time management and leadership skills. Remember that it is not just about academics; getting involved in extracurricular activities can be the key to making the most of your freshman year or whole school year.
4. Build a manageable course schedule
One of the things you have you to know on how to prepare for university is to build a manageable course schedule. Building a manageable course schedule is one of the things you should know before going to your freshman year. As a fresh-faced freshman in your freshman year, you may be eager to explore all the fascinating subjects your university had to offer, and you ended up overloading your schedule with classes. While it seemed like a great idea at the time, you quickly realized that juggling multiple challenging courses, extracurricular activities, and a social life was no easy feat. Burnout was lurking around the corner, and your grades might suffer. In your freshman year, start learning the value of balance and how to create a schedule that allowed for both academic success and personal well-being. Learning to prioritize and manage time effectively would have spared me unnecessary stress and helped me make the most of my college experience. Young people like you who has just been finished high school years is no longer new to this burnout thing.
5. Take the right high school classes to prepare for college
As a high school student, it is easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of assignments, extracurricular activities, and social events, but your course selection matters more than you might realize. Do not forget that the courses you choose in high school can set the foundation for your freshman year and whole college education, shaping your academic skills and even influencing your future career path. Whether taking advance math classes to earn college credits, honors courses to challenge yourself, or specialized courses aligned with your interests, making thoughtful choices can make the transition to college smoother and more successful. You will no longer need more help in college once you will have a hard time taking these new college subjects. So, take the time to plan your high school curriculum wisely, considering your academic goals and aspirations. It's a crucial step in setting yourself up for success in the world of higher education.
6. Schedule a College Campus Tour
Campus tours offer you the opportunity to explore the very place where you will spend the next few years of your life, and they can provide valuable insights into the college's atmosphere, culture, and resources. Not only do these tours help you get familiar with the layout of the campus in your freshman year, but they also give you a chance to ask questions, connect with current students, and envision yourself as part of the community. Moreover, you can also ask the current students where the student condos are. If you are studying in Manila, Vista Residences has ready for occupancy projects that are strategically located near universities. These condo properties can cater your needs as a student who is living in a university in the city. So, do not underestimate the importance of scheduling a campus tour – it is a crucial step in making an informed decision about where you will pursue your education.
7. Apply for Financial Aid and Scholarships
Before entering your freshman year, you have to consider applying for financial aid and scholarships to save money. First year in college can be incredibly expensive, and without some form of financial assistance, it can be a significant burden on both students and their families. Scholarships and financial aid opportunities can make a world of difference in terms of reducing the overall cost of education. So, for future college-goers, try to go to Facebook group now and search on available scholarships. For financial aid, another option for other students is to do part time job to save for their tuition fees. So in your case, start searching now for financial aid options and scholarships, as it can alleviate the financial stress and allow you to focus more on your studies and college experience.
In conclusion, embarking on the journey to college is a monumental step in every young adult's life, and it is perfectly normal to have a mix of excitement and anxiety. The transition from high school to college brings with it a world of new experiences and challenges, and while it is impossible to predict every twist and turn, being armed with some key insights can certainly help smooth the path. You may have a "what i wish i knew about university" moment along the way, but this blog will help you in some ways on how to gauge your whole college journey experience.
In the end, what you wish you knew before heading to college is just the beginning of your story. The beauty of this chapter is that it is yours to write, and with the right attitude, resilience, and a thirst for knowledge, your college experience can be one of the most rewarding and transformative periods of your life. So, go forth with confidence, and make the most of every moment as you embark on this incredible adventure called college.
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