8 Things to Keep in Mind When You Enter College Life

For students fresh out of high school, college is a big change in terms of the culture and the environment. While students are excited to kick off this new phase of life, they are also nervous about what’s in store for them. “Coming from an all-girls school to a co-ed college is a big challenge for me. While I am happy that I’ll get to interact with more people, I’m also very scared of how I will adjust to this change,” says Kritika Yadav, who has recently taken admission in Amity University, Noida.

 

Here are a few things students should keep in mind while they step into this new world.

 

Interaction is important

 

College is a fresh start for every student, full of new experiences. It is important to interact with as many people as possible - whether teachers or students. Interacting with professors and faculty members helps one acquire first-hand information about one’s field of study. 

 

After all , you don't want to end up saying this...

 

 

 

Source: pandawhale.com

 

 

Active participation is the key

 

Besides academic knowledge, it is also important for students to be aware of what’s happening around them. Joining clubs and cultural societies within and outside college endow students with teamwork skills. There are various organisations that provide opportunities to students to develop leadership qualities, gain volunteering experience and interact with people from various countries and cultures.

 

Don't shy away from extra-curricular activities!

 

 

 

Source: tinypic.com

 

 

Balance your time

 

While one should enjoy college life to the full, it is also essential to concentrate on academics. Keeping notes up-to-date, as well as meeting deadlines for class assignments and maintaining class attendance are important. It is  crucial to maintain a balance between academic progress and social life, as both are equally important for an overall development of one’s personality.

 

If you do not study through the semester, chances are that you will end up saying this!

 

 

 

Source: media.tumblr.com

 

 

Be tech savvy

 

In this age of technology, being comfortable with various advancements always works to one’s benefit. There are a number of websites which provide students information about various events happening in the city, educational information, book references etc. Being active on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn helps students keep in touch with friends and family. There are a number of user-friendly applications that students can install on their mobiles and tablets.

 

 

 

Source: seventeen.com

 

 

Know the basics

 

Being aware of eateries, markets, photocopiers, bookshops etc located close to your college comes in handy. Students should also know about public transport facilities like metro stations and bus stops. “I always carry a map of the city, as well as a metro map in my bag. It is very convenient for me to travel alone on public transport since I have knowledge of roads and localities,” says Neha Joshi, who is studying at Jesus and Mary College, Chanakyapuri.

 

If you have good knowledge of your surroundings, you will surely feel good about yourself and no one would be able to misguide you.

 

 

 

Source: herewerebooksinvolved.com

 

 

Don’t forget your passion

 

While it is important to concentrate on academics, students should always pursue their passion. Whether it is art, theatre, photography, dance, travel -  one should follow one’s interests as it helps in the overall development, and may also be useful in the long run.

 

 

 

Source: reactiongifs.com

 

 

Live on a budget

 

It is true that college life is the time when every student should enjoy the most, but in the midst of all the fun and frolic, keeping a track of finances is very essential. Spending should not be mixed with splurging, and managing your money in accordance with priorities is a skill students should develop while entering this new phase.

 

If you do not pay attention to your budget, you could end up borrowing money from others. And it's not such a good idea!

 

 

 

Source: survivingcollege.com

 

 

Don’t get carried away

 

Enjoyment is important but college students should stay within limits. Indulging in unhealthyactivities due to peer pressure should be avoided, and adhering to moral and ethical values should always be a priority. 

 

If your conscience doesn't allow, you can easily get away by saying NO!!

 

 

 

Source: i.imgur.com/

 

 

College is a phase that comes just once in your life. Make the best of this time!

 

 

 

Source: media.tumblr.com

 

 

With inputs from hindustantimes.com