Can I get a do-over?

Wednesday, October 28 2009 - Jen

As some of you may or may not know I started school this fall (again) and to say it’s been overwhelming would be like saying the Taj Mahal is kinda pretty (that’s a vast understatement by the way). Going back to school as an adult has been great but it’s also been a big wake up call. There are so many things I wish I knew. Because I can’t call my 19 year old self I hope by sharing with all of you my list of do-overs it will help ease my frustration.

Remember that being able to go to class and educate yourself is an absolute privilege; not a right and not a chore. Whether it’s a huge university, a community college or online classes be proud that you are able to attend class and do it. :)

Say hello to your professor and introduce yourself. Not every single day or anything; that might get you in trouble but try it within the first week. As awkward as it may sound it will make a difference believe me. They will put your face with a name and you will be seen in class. Not to mention when they get your test or paper they will remember you introduced yourself and that first impression will go a long way. Hopefully all the way to an A!

Check in with your academic advisor frequently. Often times classes are added as a requirement to graduate and you’ll end up taking them when you think you are all done. Speaking from personal experience it’s not a great feeling.

I know this one is tough but be confident in your major before you declare it. You pretty much have 2 years of general ed requirements to satisfy so don’t rush yourself. Give yourself a couple years to dabble in a bit of this and a bit of that before you decide your career. It’s not only time that’s being spent but money as well!

Take a day…an entire day to experience and understand your campus. It is seriously an amazing thing to walk around and learn the history, see the beauty and appreciate the opportunity you have to attend college. In addition to this it’s also important for your safety to know your surroundings.

Go to an athletic event even if you’re not a sports fan. You pay tuition and get free tickets to these so go experience one. People pay big bucks for tickets to these so get it free while you can!

Remember at most colleges you have to apply to graduate. Don’t miss the boat and have to wait another term to graduate or walk.

I could go on and on but I think I’ve said my peace. Be sure to check Holli’s $150 dorm room challenge for some budgeting tips! Any advice from all y’all out there would be sooo appreciated! Leave a comment below and be sure to read them for more tips and tricks on the college life.

image credit: here

Tagged as: about, community

#1 Brian on 10.28.2009 at 10:44 AM

Your first point is so true and so important! Education is such a gift and it is so underappreciated. (I know this because I am guilty of it as well). Thanks for that little reminder.

I guess the only thing I would add to this list is to take the time to make some friends in your classes. Those connections could not only help you make the all important study buddy, but could turn into great lifetime friends.

#2 Melanie on 10.28.2009 at 11:52 AM

Hey Jen, good points!

I agree wholeheartedly with your last point... DEFINITELY keep on top of graduation app dates. When I was in college, I missed the cut-off for graduation by a few weeks and had to wait a whole year for my diploma! And even if you miss the application date, sign up next year and WALK ANYWAY. Since I had been done with school for a year, I was frustrated and decided not to walk. Now, almost 10 years later, I sure I wish I had that memory.

#3 jen on 10.28.2009 at 12:04 PM

Brain and Melanie,

Both excellent examples! Now we can all feel better knowing that someone will walk regardless of frustrations and will overcome shyness or timidness and make a friend! Success is ours!

#4 Bobo Smythe on 10.28.2009 at 1:21 PM

Along with introducing yourself, make sure you are close to the front and add your two cents to the topic. In a lot of classes, participation can be the difference between one grade and the other. Being active and engaged in the class makes sure your professor remembers that name and face. And as scary as it may be, adding to the conversation will let you practice public speaking. Also, whenever they need a volunteer, DO IT. Now that is super scary, I have got to do a lot of fun things that I would have missed if I didn't raise may hand. (Walking in chocolate pudding for an Early Childhood Education class was probably the best).

And above all else, remember you have put yourself in that classroom. So, have fun!

#5 Kari on 10.29.2009 at 2:20 PM

I want to add one more item to the "intorduce yourself" conversation. It is a fantastic idea to make sure your instructor knows you and to participate. Often you will need a letter of recommendation from an instructor to join other programs, or even for future employment.

If they don't know you, how much can they really write about you? If costs you nothing, but you can gain so much.