How to Get Ready for College While You’re Still in High School

It’s no secret that college is an exhilarating journey filled with new experiences, but it’s also a trying test of your resiliency. By following these simple tips, you’ll be more than prepared to handle any curveball that comes your way.

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1. Set Goals

The very first thing that you have to do is set your goals. Having clear and focused goals will not only help you plan for college but will also give you a sense of direction when you’re there. When writing your goals, try to include both short and long-term goals that you want to accomplish in the next four years.

For example, if you plan to pursue accountancy, business, or management (ABM) in college, your short-term goals may include preparing for the SAT early and taking more practice exams. You could also use what you’re learning in your courses in ABM in senior high, and incorporate them into your long-term goals.

2. Make a Plan

Once you have your goals in place, make a plan on how to get there. When making your plan, you should always be aware of your deadlines and what you’ll need to accomplish that goal. For instance, if you want to get into a certain college, you’ll need to apply before the deadline.

If you want good grades, make sure that you study well for your tests and do all of your homework. If you want to look for a scholarship, create a list of the companies or government agencies that offer them and set aside time to apply for as many as you can.

Remember, goals should be specific and measurable so that you know if you’ve reached your intended destination.

3. Get Organized

Next, you’ll want to make sure that you’re organized. If your room is messy and cluttered it will be hard for you to find your things, and it can even affect your study habits. Keep in mind that a cluttered desk leads to a cluttered mental headspace.

When you’re studying, make sure that your surroundings are clean and organized. It will be easier to study and you’ll get more accomplished because of this. So, make sure that everything is packed and ready to go so that when the time arrives, you can just grab your suitcases and leave for college.

4. Gather Supplies

You will need to bring a lot of things with you when you go off to college. Here is a list of everything that you should take with you:

  • Suitcases and backpacks – Make sure that you have two sets of everything so that if you accidentally forget something you can go back and get it.
  • Laptop or tablet – You may want to invest money in a laptop because it’s easier to transport than a desktop. However, if you want to save money, you can just get a tablet to use in college instead.
  • Earbuds, headphones, and chargers – These items are always getting lost so try to get multiples and keep them in a safe place.
  • Coffee mug, water bottle, and snacks – Coffee ensures that you have the energy to get through the day. Make sure that you take enough money with you for coffee at least once a week. Water bottles are great for staying hydrated through the day, and snacks can come in handy when your stomach starts to growl.
  • Weekender bag – This is a small bag that you can take back and forth to college on the weekends. Pack clothes, toiletries, and any other items that you want.
  • Picture frames – It’s nice to decorate your space with pictures that remind you of home.

5. Prepare Mentally and Emotionally

Preparing mentally is just as important as preparing physically, so you’ll need to make sure that you’re ready to leave home before you take the plunge. When you feel like your mental state is in danger, don’t hesitate to seek help at your college’s counseling center.

You can also talk to your friends and family so that you don’t feel alone when the going gets tough, and to make sure that they are supportive of you when you go off to school. The more support you have, the easier college will be for you.

Emotions are also a big part of college, so you’ll want to be sure to take care of yourself. Make sure you eat well and get enough sleep. If you’re feeling upset or overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to talk about it. Your friends and family are there to listen and help you through whatever tough time you’re having.

6. Have Fun!

You’re going to have a lot of fun at college! There are so many activities and things to do on campus, so make sure that you take advantage of them.

Try going to the gym or taking a fun class. You can also just explore the campus and go on adventures with your friends. This is a wonderful experience that you’re not going to want to miss out on, so make sure that you have fun!

Going to college can be an exciting and overwhelming experience. Make sure that you’re prepared for it by following these six tips. Depending on how you prepare yourself, college could be the best or worst four years of your life. So, get the most out of it by always making smart decisions.