The first day of college can be exciting, intimidating, nerve-racking, or even some combination of all of the above. Let me let you in on a little secret: most people are feeling these emotions on the first day of the semester, no matter how far they are into their degree! A new semester and new classes lie ahead, and today I’m sharing with you all of the tips you need for the best first day of college ever!
8 Tips for the Best First Day of College Ever:
Know where you’re going.
Walk your schedule before classes start – preferably more than once if you can find the time. Things look different at different times of day with different crowd levels when you aren’t yet familiar with an area!
Plan when you’re going to eat on your first day.
And if you intend to make breakfast in your dorm, plan what you’re going to eat as well! The fewer decisions you have to make,
Check where your classes are before you leave!
I’ve had classrooms change the morning of, but the most up to date room is always listed in the university portal where my classes for the day are laid out in a cute little calendar section. From what I hear, most universities have something like this for students and it’s one convenient place to check for any changes.
Check your email.
Then check it again. Sometimes professors will email room changes, sometimes a class will be canceled on the first day. Yes, I have had classes canceled on the first day before. How did I receive that message? Email! And while you’re at it, make sure that the school email app is downloaded onto your phone.
Related: What You Need for a Successful First Year College Move-In
Bring a jacket, dress in layers.
You never know what a classroom is going to be like on the first day. I’ve had classrooms that were so cold I wore my knee-length parka for all of the class, and I’ve had classes so warm I always left dripping with sweat and having drunk all of my two bottles of water I always carry with me. A lesson too many of us have to learn the hard way: being uncomfortable in class is not conducive to paying attention.
Carry an extra shirt with you.
I always carry an extra shirt in my backpack, a tip a good friend of mine had picked up from one of her college visits that has served me well time and time again. It turns out, a lot of my friends recommend this as well! This is great for if you spill something or get a stain while in the dining hall between classes, if the weather is just not in your favor, or if you want to change for the rest of your classes after a presentation! It can also provide another layer if you get too cold.
Print out your syllabus ahead of time and bring it with you to class.
Some professors will pass out the syllabus on the first day of class while others will expect you to have it. In order to not get caught off guard by the latter, make sure you have a copy of the syllabus on hand.
Actually read the syllabus.
This will give you a decent idea of what the class will be like and what to expect from the professor. Reading the syllabus ahead of time also gives you the opportunity to think of any questions you may have, so if your concern isn’t addressed as the professor goes over the syllabus you’re ready to ask as soon as they’re finished!
And there you have it! 8 Tips for the Best First Day of College Ever
I wish you the very best first day, friends! Know someone who is feeling a bit nervous about the first day of classes? Send them this post!
