Starting college is a chance to choose what and where to study – plus you’ll be treated like an adult. Here’s what you need to know.
Starting at college is both exciting and daunting. This might be the first time you’ve been able to choose exactly what and where you want to study. You’ll have more autonomy and be treated like an adult. Of course, this also comes with responsibilities.
Here are seven things you need to know as you start college. Follow our tips and you will set yourself up for success this academic year and beyond.
Choose what to study wisely
Choosing what to study at college is a big decision. Whether you’re taking a single, full-time course (such as an HND) or several subjects in various subjects (such as A Levels,) choosing the right subjects is paramount.
Ask yourself these questions before you settle on your subject(s) of study:
- What subjects do I enjoy the most and find the most interesting?
- What subjects am I good at?
- Do I want to go to university or other further education and if so, what subjects will I need for admission into my chosen course?
- What future career do I want and what subjects can set me up for that?
Do not choose your subjects based on what your friends are doing or what your family expects you to do. You can and should ask for advice and input, but the final decision must be yours and must feel right for you.
Many colleges will allow you to change courses early in the year if you realise something isn’t right for you. So speak up early if you realise your course isn’t a good fit.
Brush up on your study skills
College requires a lot of independent study. You will be expected to take notes in class, complete homework, revise for tests and exams, seek out resources for yourself, and ask for extra help if you need it.
Make sure you understand what studying tricks work for you. Will you use mnemonics to help you remember things, make flashcards to revise with, or seek out resources in audio or video formats? Understand your personal learning style and find the solutions that suit you best.
Don’t forget about organisation and time management, too. Whether you use a digital calendar or a paper planner, you’ll need a system to ensure you stay on top of your workload.
Get to know the campus
You’re going to be spending a lot of time on your college’s campus over the next few years. So take the time to get to know it. This doesn’t just extend to knowing where the bathrooms, cafeteria, and library are located (though those things are important!) You should also make a point of learning things like:
- Where should you go if you need urgent support, academic or otherwise?
- Where can you usually find a free computer or an empty classroom to do some private study?
- Is there a nice outdoor space where you can relax and decompress?
- Where can you get a quick snack or drink between classes?
- How long does it actually take to walk from one end of campus to the other? (Being late for class because you misjudged the walk isn’t a good look.)
- What other amenities that you might want to make use of are located near the campus? (Shops, cafes, entertainment?)
- What transport options are there? (Bus stops, bicycle storage, car parking, nearby railway station?)
When you know your college’s campus really well, you can make the most of everything it has to offer.
Make the time to make friends
College isn’t just about your academic studies. You should also take the time to make new friends. Whether it’s going for coffee with other people who are taking your course, or signing up to a club or society to help you meet new people, time invested in relationships is never time wasted.
Perhaps some of your friends from your secondary school have come to the same college as you. If so, don’t forget about keeping in touch with them and spending time together… but ensure you all have the opportunity to make new friends, too.
Many people make friends for life in college. Treat everyone you meet as a potential friend and you can’t go far wrong.
Do extracurriculars (but not too many)
Extracurricular activities, such as joining a club, having a part time job, or playing a sport, can be one of the most rewarding parts of college life. They allow you to make friends with people who share a common interest, boost your skills, and add something to your CV.
But quality matters more than quantity when it comes to extracurriculars. Don’t sign up for so many things that you end up overwhelmed and stressed out. Instead, choose a small number of things you really love and dedicate yourself to them.
Self-care matters
An intensive course of study can be stressful as well as exciting. You’ll burn out and possibly even get sick if you don’t take care of yourself while you’re at college. Here are a few easy wellbeing tricks you can implement:
- Eat a healthy, nourishing diet and drink plenty of water.
- If you drink alcohol, limit the amount you consume.
- Take regular exercise (preferably outdoors when possible).
- Make time for the things that nourish your mental health and make you smile.
- Engage mindfully with things like social media, and switch off if they’re making you feel worse.
- Seek out mental health support if you need it.
- Engage in self-care practices. This will look different for everyone – yoga, journaling, taking a hot bath, going for a run or walk, or meditating are options that work for some people.
You can only perform at your best in college if you’re physically and mentally well. Self-care is not selfish or indulgent. It is essential.
Believe in yourself
You might occasionally find yourself having doubts about your abilities or about whether you really belong in college. These feelings will probably crop up when you’re struggling with a piece of work or feel behind in your studies.
First, don’t panic. Everyone goes through these phases. You’re not alone. Reach out to teachers for academic help if you need it, and to friends and family or a professional counsellor for emotional support.
Most importantly, work on your self esteem and self belief. You’ll need to believe in your ability to succeed even when you’re struggling. This will help you to power through difficulties, find the support you need, and achieve your goals.
We believe in you. Now go and have an amazing time at college!
