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5 Tips for Social and Academic Success in College
1. Be Yourself- This sounds like the most cliche advice and is something I know everyone has been told a few thousand times in their lives, but I have never found myself in a situation where is hasn’t been true. College is a great example of where this will be tested. It is easy to leave home and feel like you need or want to reinvent yourself, to wear that crazy shirt you could have never pulled off in high school, and I say wear that crazy shirt! But don’t change your entire person. Changing who you are or not being yourself will land you in areas you aren’t really interested in, whereas pursuing real interests and being yourself will surely guide you to the right friends and the places that will most interest you on campus.
2. Be Smart- Obviously being smart entails going to class, paying attention, and studying. But being smart is a really great general quality to have. In situations that you don’t feel as smart in, ask educated purposeful questions. No one thinks you’re dumb when you’re unfamiliar with topics as long as you ask genuine questions. Also, be smart in your social life! People dismiss stupid things college students do all the time because their is the inherent excuse of being a college student. The stereotype portrays all college students as party animals, lazy, bad eaters, or people who don’t get enough sleep. While some of these may happen during your college career, don’t let yourself fall into the mindset that anything goes because you are a college student. You are still human and should treat your body, mind, and soul with respect regardless of your age.
3. Learn How to Talk to Adults- This tip is easier said than done, but will distinguish you from other students. Being able to talk to adults gives you an upper hand in the job market, in your classes, and often times will get you places you would have other wised missed simply from not asking or not asking well. Being able to talk with adults isn’t something that comes naturally to everyone or happens over night so PRACTICE! Practice on adults at TEAM, the grocery store cashier, your parents, your teachers. This is an easy skill to acquire that will put you ahead of the game.
4. Know your comfort zone and when to step out of it- Someone once told me that everything you have always dreamed of is right outside of your comfort zone. This is surely to be taken with a grain of salt but is incredible to think about. Draw a stick figure picture of yourself in the middle of a blank page and draw a circle around yourself. Now write things you would like to achieve but have hesitations about around the circle. The most feasible things closest to the circle and the more far fetched items a little further out. The circle around you represents your comfort zone. Imagine the things you could accomplish by stepping out of your comfort zone or drawing your circle a little bigger. It’s okay to be a nervous or have doubts, but don’t let those feelings hold you back from things you can accomplish. That being said, know when you shouldn’t step out of your comfort zone. There are going to be situations you are uncomfortable with, know your limits and how to say no.
5. Be respectful- Lastly, be respectful. Be respectful to your peers, professors, and yourself. This is an easy one to overlook or slip up. We all know the kids in class that talk the entire time, or belittle the teacher. Don’t be that person, remember your are paying to be in school so get the most out of it. Respect your peers and expect the same treatment from them in return. People appreciate being listened to and respected, this is an easy way to meet friends. Most importantly, respect yourself. Get enough sleep, eat good foods, and exercise! The little things make such a big difference. Set high standards for yourself and encourage others to do the same. Being respectful is notable quality that people pick up on.
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