- Preparation
- Start as a high school freshman and keep track of all involvement through clubs, organizations, associations, sports, youth groups, volunteering, awards, etc. This will make filling out applications less stressful. Also, apply for as many scholarships as you can!
- Research the different universities of interest, make a campus visit and then pick your best fit.
- Live in the Dorms
- This is a great way to meet friends and give you the true “college experience.” It also makes for some great stories to tell down the road.
Below are a few stories from the interns days in the dorms.
Wyatt– My roommate and I did not get along very well, and he made living with him very difficult. I finally had enough and put laxative in his workout powders. Although this is not something I would ever do again, it does get a laugh out of most people!
Faith– One time my roommates boyfriend branded himself and came over to our room for medical attention. Let’s just say the scar is fairly ugly and it wasn’t his best decision but it’s a memory that we will all share till we go to the grave.
Wade– My friend and I would have weekly movie parties and would leave the door to my room open so other people could join. One time we ended up with 25 people in my room although by dorm rules we were only allowed to have 10 people in a room at a time.
- Check and make sure that the college credits you have taken in high school will transfer to your university. Talk to your advisor & see how you can make them all work.
- Get involved!
- Have an open mind and don’t be afraid to go out of your comfort zone. Whether its high school or college don’t hold yourself back in fear. Life is too short to not venture out and try new things.
- Distance makes the heart grow fonder.
- Although you might think your parents and siblings are the worst thing ever, moving away will make you realize that they aren’t all that bad. You may not always agree with them but your time away will help you to appreciate them and value them. Also, you’ll be calling your parents often(they know more than you would like to admit)
- Take a fun class!
- These sometimes turn out to be the best part of college. You’ll meet new people and develop new fun skills all while having a good time! Yes, it’s going to cost a little money, but you can only use the young and irresponsible card for so many years!
- Get to know your professors
- Especially the professors in you major. They will be tremendous help in your education and career development.
- Make a packing list and do some research
- Every college is different, and some may require more packing than others. What kind of clothes are you going to need? Does your dorm come with a fridge and/or microwave? What movies help you get over homesickness? This is a time where overpacking should be a priority. Below are a few items that the interns were very glad they packed.
- Dorm size vacuum (‘Dirt Devil’ from amazon)
- Iron and Ironing Board (you or someone on your floor will need this sometime)
- Pillows and favorite blanket/s (this is a great reminder of home)
- Air mattress (you will have visitors)
- Plates and silverware (you will be eating in your room often)
- Take your time
- Enjoy your time at college and take it at your own pace. There is no shame in taking extra time or graduating early. Your main focus should be getting an education that has prepared you enough for the work force.
- Internships!
- Internships are important in so many ways. They give you real life work experience and sometimes can be the make or break factor in realizing if your major is the right fit for you. They’re also great for networking and meeting new people-you never know who your boss/supervisor will know and they could be very helpful in your career down the road.