Schools
College Freshman Survival Guide — For Parents Too
It's almost time for the kids to move out of the house and venture out on their own for the first time as fall classes start soon. Here are some tips from students at UC Berkeley to help students survive that first year.
By Derek Wilson
The Class of 2017 is preparing for college life: going through new student orientations, registering for classes and trying to find a place to live. It's an exciting, yet uncertain, time for teenagers — and it's downright nerve wracking for parents who are watching their children leave the nest.
There's a lot to do before the first day of class and a lot of things to watch out for. Here are a few tips from students at the University of California at Berkeley.
What do you need to you need to bring to your new dorm room or apartment?
Tip from Cal: Socks, underwear, snack food, lamp, computer, umbrella, pillows, hand vacuum cleaner, something cozy from home.
How can you avoid the Freshman 15?
Tip from Cal: According to Uday Mehta, a nuclear engineering major at Cal: control spending, eat breakfast, don't eat out too often, avoid calorie-heavy drinks, such as beer and energy drinks.
What if I get homesick?
Tip from Cal: Lean on friends at college; call parents or siblings; try to keep busy.
I'm in college to study, but I want to have fun too.
Tip from Cal: According to Cal's website: Don't do too much. One week has 168 hours, and you need 50-60 to sleep, 40-50 for classes and studying, and 20-30 for eating and personal errands. Spend the remaining 30-40 hours wisely; maybe a part-time job and one activity (club, volunteer service, etc), but leave time to spend with friends, having fun, and not living every minute on a schedule!
How can I pay for college and not rack up a ton of debt?
Tip from Cal: Consider financial aid, scholarships, loans, or grants, but make sure you know the requirements and whether or not you'll have to repay the money.
Also, make a monthly budget for yourself and stick to it. Avoid signing up for credit card offers, because it's easy to end up in long-term debt. Pay bills on time, buy used books, use public transit, and seek out student discounts.
OK freshmen, good luck with as you enter a big, new world. And parents, don't worry about the kids too much — the holidays are right around the corner, so you'll be seeing them soon.
Have a tip for college freshmen or their parents? Share it in the comments section below.
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