Advice For Incoming College Students

Advice For Incoming College Students

It is that time of year again! Millions of students all over America will be starting their first year of college this fall. College is an exciting time in one’s life. It is a lot of fun but a lot of hard work. Most people going into college may feel nervous or have anxiety. If you are one of those incoming students, Here is some advice for what you can do during college to make the experience rewarding!

1. Try New Things

The most important thing you can do at college is to try new things. There will be something out there that you will think is not the best fit for you, but it is a blessing in disguise. For example, If you were not a political junkie when you were in high school, consider joining Students for Life, College Republicans, or another similar organization. Who knows, the club you choose to join could help you in what you decide to do.

2. Meet New Friends

Another extremely important part of college is meeting new friends. The easiest way to make new friends is by trying new things, going out to the local college bar, and classes just to name a few. Friends will help you get through the toughest parts of college. If you plan on commuting to college, you may find it hard to make new friends. My advice to that is to make friends who also commute. That way, when one’s car goes to the shop, contact a fellow commuter so you do not have to worry about missing classes.

3. Run for Student Government

Running for student government is a very rewarding experience for any college student regardless of major. Although it is a lot of work and takes up a lot of your time, SGA members can make major changes on your college campus in areas such as college affordability, college infrastructure, and campus safety. SGA also ensures club compliance with college policy. If you are interested in running for SGA, take a look at my previous piece: Run for Student Government To Make A Change on Your College Campus.

4. Get an Internship

Getting an internship is a fundamental part of every college experience. Nearly every major, and sometimes minors, requires one internship to graduate. When I was in college, I held many different internships on political campaigns, state legislative offices, and public policy. If you are majoring or minoring in political science, public policy, or a similar field, and are interested in getting a DC-based internship, take a look at my previous piece: Still Looking For A Washington DC Internship? Here is Where to Look!

5. Most importantly, have fun!

College is a very exciting time! Never forget to let yourself loose. Go to the local bar on a Thursday night. College is a lot of work and rewards having fun while working hard. You should never work too hard because then you will suffer from burnout. Remember, at the end of the day, college is what you make of it. What you do will define what your college experience is!