GEAR UP

The first year of college is a time of transition for everyone. Students may experience these common challenges:

• Academic. College will be different and more challenging than high school, and some students may be caught off guard.
• Social. When students begin a new school, they must reestablish their social world. This may mean making new friends, learning to live with roommates, and navigating a new environment.
• Independence. As young adults, they are now more accountable for their actions. Students must balance school, work, social life, sleep, and budget. They will have more freedom, and with that comes increased responsibility.
• Time Management. Students are expected to do more coursework outside the classroom than in high school. Typically, students should plan for at least two hours of studying every class hour.
• Financial. School and college life can be expensive. Students need to understand how to budget their finances and avoid credit card debt.

Successful college students utilize various resources, such as tutoring, informal student study groups, meeting with professors during office hours, meeting with an academic advisor, and asking for help when needed. These resources are there to support you in your journey.