Planning for your very first college semester is super stressful! There are so many things to worry about: what classes to take, where to study, how to find your way around campus…it can all feel overwhelming. Luckily, we’ve created a trusty checklist for college freshmen that covers everything you could imagine!
1. Pre-Semester Summer
Once you’ve accepted admission to the perfect school, it’s time to start preparing using our first checklist for college freshmen.
Get Super Familiar with Your School Website
This is your one-stop for all things campus-related. Take the time to explore every part of it—school websites can be super confusing at first!
Pick Your Courses Carefully
The good classes usually fill up quickly, so register for classes as soon as you can. Many students use sites like Rate My Professor to get an idea of how big the workload will be and how often they’ll use the textbook.
Apply for Financial Aid
Don’t forget to submit your FAFSA, apply for scholarships, and look into work-study opportunities. You don’t want to miss out on any potential funding!
Transfer Your Medical Records to a Local Doctor
You’ll need these records handy in case of minor illnesses or emergencies, or if you have medications you need to refill.
2. The Month Before Moving On-Campus
Our checklist for college freshmen recommends doing these tasks a month before you move onto campus.
Pack! But Don’t Over-Pack
You’ll be surprised how much stuff you can accumulate over the years—don’t bring everything you own with you. Make sure you also bring copies of all your important documents, including your social security card, birth certificate, health insurance, etc.
Buy or Rent Textbooks
If you start looking early enough, you might be able to find second-hand copies of your required textbooks—there are plenty of websites and Facebook groups dedicated to buying and selling textbooks.
Connect with Potential Roommates
Most schools have a Facebook group or Instagram account for incoming freshmen where you can find potential roommates. Create a group text to get to know each other early!
3. Your First Day On Campus
When you first set foot on campus, you’ll either be super excited or super nervous—or maybe a combination of both. Either way, here’s what to do on your first day.
Put Your Class Schedule Somewhere Easily Accessible
Screenshot your schedule and make it your phone background, or print it and put it in your phone case/binder. You’ll need extra help remembering everything for the first couple of weeks.
Walk Around Campus
Tour the campus and find your classrooms, dining halls, libraries, computer labs, and bathrooms! If you realize your back-to-back classes are too far apart, you have until the last day of class registration to change your schedule.
Explore Student Fairs & Events
Every checklist for college freshmen will tell you to check out these events—you’ll get a ton of free stuff, and it’s a great way to learn about different clubs and organizations.
Get Your Student ID
This is your golden ticket to all kinds of student discounts and freebies. Plus, you’ll need it for pretty much everything on campus.
4. First Week of Classes
After your first day, the rest of the week will be a blur—but try to use the following checklist.
Arrive to Class Early
On the first day of each class, try to get there at least 5-10 minutes early to scope out the best seat and get a feel for the class.
Create a Study Schedule
Once you’re more familiar with your schedule, create a study plan that works for you. Block out time each day for homework and studying so you don’t fall behind.
Be Involved in School Spirit Activities
Go to a football game, attend a pep rally, or join an intramural sports team! Getting involved in different activities is a great way to make friends and fill up your extra time with something fun.
5. The Rest of the Semester
As the semester progresses, you’ll start to get the hang of things! These tips are the last part of our checklist for college freshmen.
Don’t Be Afraid to Utilize School Resources
Go to your professor’s office hours for help, find a study group, or visit the writing center for assistance with essays. Your school offers a ton of resources to help you succeed—use them!
Make A Four (Or Five) Year Plan
Meet with your academic advisor to discuss your major, classes, and graduation requirements. Create a plan for the rest of your time in college so you can stay on track and graduate on time.
Have Fun!
Yes, all of the checklists for college freshmen will end like this—but we’re serious! Freshmen often get discounts for school performances, movies, and other events, so take advantage of them!
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If you’re looking for student housing in Athens, Ohio, Wharton Rentals has a variety of affordable and convenient options near Ohio University’s campus! Browse our website to find the perfect housing option to start decorating.
