How To Survive Your Freshman Year At TAMUCC

Advice from a Sophomore on how to knock out your first year of college at TAMUCC! By: B. Connor Flynn

1. You're Going To Be Homesick

It's true, leaving the nest is one of the most gratifying and terrifying experiences you can face. You don't really think about all of the things you're going to have to do without your parents until you're actually on your own and not knowing people around you can be a bit daunting. Moving away from home can suck at first, but I can assure you that almost everyone is feeling the same! So give yourself a day here and there to be sad, but get out of you're room and find a way to cope. You'll start to feel connected to your new home as soon as you get involved.

2. Get Involved On Campus

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If you stay in all the time you are going to miss out on some pretty fun experiences! TAMUCC has plenty of clubs and programs to get involved in. It's a great way to get out of your comfort zone and meet some pretty cool people you could have possibly have lifelong friendships meet. College is about trying new things and if you want to try out improv because it sounds fun, then so be it! You'll never know what you like until you put yourself out there.

3. Pick Classes That Are Right For You!

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Although, it may seem like a great idea to pick a similar class schedule as your friends. Make sure it's at a time that is right for you! You don't want to be stuck with an 8 a.m. class that you can't commit to throughout the semester because you're not a morning person. There are plenty of night classes available, so schedule for you, and not for your friends.

4. Don't Skip

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One thing that I have learned is not to skip class. Sure, it may seem like a great idea to sleep in or go to the beach instead of going to a lecture, but you're missing valuable instruction that you won't get by looking over another students notes. At the end of the day, if you make it a point to try to achieve perfect attendance you'll feel that much more confident when it's test time... and besides the beach is always there after class ;)

5. Find The Ideal Place To Study

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It's hard to find the perfect place to get into you're studying groove. Maybe you're the type to find solace in the confines of your room or maybe you like the hustle and bustle of your local coffee shop. Switch it up and try out everywhere, just make sure to find a place that isn't too much of a distraction.

6. Don't Procrastinate

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Waiting until the last moment is NEVER a good idea. Tomorrow never comes and you're taking the chance of your grades potentially suffering. Although it doesn't feel like it, your friends will understand if you can't make it to movie night and it may even motivate them to get some work done as well. If you put your assignments high on your priorities list, your GPA will thank you.

7. EAT

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There are plenty of places to eat on campus! Subway, Einstein Bagles, and the Islander Dining Hall are only a few. Especially at the dining hall, you can get all you need to eat for one meal swipe! Try not to skip meals or over feed yourself when you're stressed, a balanced diet will give you the brain power and energy to get you through the week.

8. Keep Track Of Your Money

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Money is a hard thing to keep, especially when everyone wants to go out and party every weekend but when you check your account and you see triple digits (maybe quadruple after that loan refund ;D ) you will be on cloud 9!

And if you take out any loans, just make sure to take advantage of your financial aid counselors on campus! they are a wealth of knowledge that YOU PAY FOR, so use them!

9. Pick A Major When You're Ready

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At times, it may seem like everyone has they're life planned out but you. Don't feel the need to rush into choosing a major though, you may change what you want to do many times until it feels right. There's plenty of time to discover what fits, but don't sell yourself short of what you dream for just because a different career path seems easier. Many associates and bachelor degrees require the same basics, and don't be shy to talk to your advisors if you have any questions. That's what they're there for and once again, YOU PAY FOR THEM.

10. Stay Balanced

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Above all, stay balanced with your social and academic lives. Being involved with friends is just as important as cramming for a test! If you swing too much in either direction it can effect you poorly! Try to find equilibrium in everything so that no one part of your life overwhelms you! Hit both the beach and the books and remember to learn, because this is a great school which can educate you well!

Go Islanders!!!