By: Stan Popovich
Are you planning on going to college?
Deciding if you want to go to college can be very stressful.
As a result, here are some things that you can do to be prepared for college.
Should I Attend College?
1. Determine your goals and interests: It is important to decide if you want to go to college. Talk to a career counselor to get an idea of what your options may be and do what is best for you. Remember that going to college is not for everyone.
2. Do your research: Make a list of colleges that you may like attending. Talk to the appropriate advisors at each college and determine if there is anything you like about a certain college. Discuss your academic goals and personal concerns with your family and college advisors.
3. Choose the right college: If you decide to go to college, it is important you pick a college that you feel comfortable going to. Some people may not want to go to a large campus while others may want to go to a smaller school. Decide which college will best suit your needs.
How You Can Prepare for College
1. Talk to other students: It is a good idea to talk to people on campus about their experiences. Ask questions and make sure you know what to expect before classes begin. Talking to current students and others can give you a good idea on what to expect from your first semester.
2. Visit the campus counseling department: Many students deal with various mental health issues during their time in college. Instead of waiting until you feel anxious, get to know the people at your school’s counseling department before school starts. This way, you will know who to talk to if you struggle with your mental health.
3. Take it one day at a time: It is common to get anxious before starting college. Follow mental health practices such as eating healthy, practicing meditation and mindfulness, exercise, and deep breathing. You do not have to wait for college to talk with a mental health professional.
What To Do When College Starts
1. Get involved: Join clubs or organizations on campus. There are all kinds of different programs that a student can take advantage of. This is a great way to meet people with similar interests.
2. Build new friendships. It is important to choose your friends wisely. Spend your time with people that you feel comfortable being with.
3. Take advantage of campus resources: Use academic resources and transfer-specific support programs at your school. These programs can help address some of your concerns that you may have on campus.
4. Talk to your professors: Many of your professors will have the time to talk with you. Asking questions will give you a better idea of what you need to do to pass your classes.
5. Practice positive thinking: Positive thoughts can improve physical well-being and provide a clear mind. When you feel yourself thinking negatively, counteract these thoughts by giving yourself positive encouragement. Positive reinforcement during stressful times can help manage your fears and anxieties.
Take Care of Yourself in College
1. Give yourself some time: It’s normal to feel uncertain when you first start college. Take it one day at a time. Do not let others pressure you into doing things that make you feel anxious.
2. Prioritize self-care: Make sure you’re eating well, taking regular breaks, and being active. Monitor your drinking when you’re at different parties and do not rely on drugs and alcohol to relieve your stresses and anxieties.
3. Get proper rest and sleep: Many college students pull all-nighters, studying through the night to prepare for an exam. Depriving your body of sleep can lower cognitive function, academic performance, and mental health. If you have trouble sleeping, try techniques such as avoiding caffeine, relaxing, and putting away technology at least one hour before bed.
4. Learn how to manage your studies: Most college classes involve writing many papers and a lot of studying. The key is to learn to take things one step at a time and use time management skills to stay on top of things. If you’re swamped with work, you might be able to get an extension on an assignment by explaining your situation to your professor.
5. Stay organized: It may seem overwhelming to keep track of everything with a schedule crammed full of classes, taking exams, and extracurricular activities. Before assignments start piling up, it’s crucial to find ways to stay organized. Calendars and planners are valuable organizational tools and try to reduce any distractions.
Use On-Campus Mental Health Services
Most colleges offer on-campus (and sometimes virtual) mental health services to students. You can usually find out more about a school’s services by going online to its official website.
If you need immediate assistance, contact your school’s student services. This department can direct you to appropriate resources, such as mental health clinics, online screening, and individual or group counseling. Taking advantage of these services can improve your mental health, allowing you to thrive academically and socially.
You Have Options
College is the time to discover who you are and what you want to do with your life. Do not be afraid if things do not work out according to your plans. You always have the choice to change schools or do something else that will help accomplish your goals.
Many students change schools during their time in college. It is important to know what makes you feel comfortable and determine what is best for you when it comes to accomplishing your personal and professional goals.
Get Stan’s Book Today!
Like what you read? You will increase your chances of finding the answers to your mental health issues if you read my book and the free advice on my website. Get my affordable book right now at PayPal, Amazon, or Barnes & Noble.
