How to start before going to college?

Well done for thinking ahead about preparing for college!

Obviously there are a lot of things which are part of that transition from a learning. First, getting into a college or university can be stressful. When I was making that transition, I had to make the decision about where to apply based on the things I wanted to learn about. And guess what... I changed my mind after I started college about what I was most interested in! Then, there was being ready for the college level work. In my classes I had lots of writing assignment, so it was a good thing that I had been working on that before I started college. I checked to see if there were any reading lists (so I could start learning ahead, and also see if something was an interesting class). For the areas where I needed additional preparation, I found resources to help me.

Sometimes, the challenge in transitioning to college is about moving away from home, or learning to manage a budget, learning how to keep your room clean, managing your time, or getting to meet new people. Those are also the really exciting parts.

Getting into college is a unique experience, and will be very different for each person. Preparing for that is not really so much about previously studying some content, which will be covered very quickly to be honest, so I'd say investigate more on your college, what resource you'll have there, and so on.

Also, trying to contact with people in the same situation as you, freshmen in the same college, can very much smooth your first days in there. Having a familiar face to talk with and bounce the first questions can really help you out.

Hi Diana,

First off, it's great that you're already thinking about your career before going to college. Your primary focus now should be to start thinking about what your major is going to be if you're undecided. Fortunately, you're going to be a freshman and you will need to take general education courses. Take that time to try and take a wide variety of courses that you might be interested in pursuing a career in. Like if you're pre-med, maybe take chemistry. If you're thinking of business, take some business or accounting classes. I would also start looking for internships if you could spare a few hours a week. I don't think it's ever too early to get some sort of working knowledge that is not only great experience, but also great for your resume and will help set you apart. I would also start going into the campus career center early and get to know the counselors to help guide you with any questions you might have. I would also start talking to faculty or any counselors in any prospective major/career you're interested in and get their advice. Ideally, you should look to find a mentor once you've decided on what direction you want to head towards or if you're still not sure, find a mentor that you respect to help guide you on your journey. My advice that I didn't follow too well is college grades matter! It will give you more options for post-grad education or help you last your first job as a lot of employers will also look at your college grades. Again, I would emphasize take the summers to apply for internships. Talk to the career center on the best times to apply for those. The career center websites have job postings and job fairs. Be informed on when those are and deadlines. My last piece of advice is have fun and be social! These are some of the best years of your life before you start your career and enter the working world. No matter how good your grades are, if you're not a good interviewer or good networker, this might not land you entry into grad school or your dream job. This is a lot to manage in college, but at the same time, these are things I've learned and wish I could have done more when I reflect back. Good luck!

Hi Diana!

The transition from high school to college is an exciting time, but also comes with its fair share of anxieties and worries!

I'd say the most important thing to do before starting your first year is to plan to have good habits in place and stick to a schedule that works for you.

The biggest change in going to college is the amount of free-time offered to you, and not having someone who will constantly make sure you are on track 24/7

Here are some actionable strategies you can take to prepare to have a successful first year!