The classes you pick will depend on a few things such as your major or required coursework in certain subjects like social sciences, biological sciences, foreign language, or math. When you first enter college, you will be assigned an academic advisor who can help you to choose classes and answer any questions about fulfilling requirements so that you graduate on time. They can also assist you in checking to see if you have already earned credit for some requirements from taking AP or IB exams in high school or if you have completed a dual-enrollment program. If you haven’t decided on a major yet, do not worry! Taking different courses is a good way to explore your interests since there are a variety of majors and topics to study such as queer studies or microbiology. If you are struggling in your classes, however, then there are resources available on your campus such as the writing center and tutoring centers for science and math. Another option is to speak with your professor (or even their teaching assistant) and utilize office hours.

There are many housing options for college students. Some students live on campus and other students decide to live off-campus. There are a variety of factors that go into such a decision such as finances, the city in which your college is located, family considerations, and the type of college experience you desire to have. If you decide to live on campus you can expect to be assigned to a dorm and share a room with another person. Some students choose to live off campus, especially if they are a commuter. Later on, living off campus is an option too, but keep in mind that there are several things to consider about living on your own such as signing a lease, paying rent, purchasing furniture, and possibly subletting. If you live in a dorm then you will have a roommate and a residential advisor (RA). It might feel awkward at first to be living with strangers, but there will be events coordinated by your RA so that you can get to know the people who will be sharing your safe space, i.e. your dorm room. Your RA will also walk through general guidelines and expectations of living together. However, if you run into any issues with your housing arrangement then there are resources available to support you and to help find a solution.

Applying for financial aid starts before you enter college as you will need to submit your FAFSA and CSS Profile as part of your application. You will see these two acronyms over and over again during your undergraduate career. It is important to plan ahead when it comes to financial aid, especially if you take out student loans. Other things to consider include work-study, filing tax returns (if applicable), and being able to afford school supplies. If you are granted work-study then it is important to start your job search early on and preferably a few weeks before the semester begins. Finally, school supplies can be expensive, especially textbooks which can be bought or borrowed. Many professors are aware of the financial burden of purchasing textbooks and are instead offering electronic resources that are free. Some professors will arrange to have textbooks and course material available through the university library (course reserves) for students to borrow books for their courses. Professors also have course material available electronically (CANVAS/C-Tools).

There many academic and social activities that you can be involved with to meet people and grow academically. Besides your studies, you could also take some time to join a club. Keep an eye out for events happening in the first few weeks of the semester because there might be a festival for student organizations to set up booths, explain the purpose of their club, and even hand out freebies! There are a variety of groups that you could join such as pre-professional groups that help members develop their career goals or special interest groups like Pokemon Go fans. Getting involved on campus is a good way to meet people and potentially take on leadership roles. Studying abroad is another option and can be affordable for first-generation students. You will have to do your research on the type of program, course requirements, visa restrictions, and cost, but know that financial aid is available whether from your school or through a private scholarship.

There are many things you can do to prepare for your career as a graduate. It's important early in your undergraduate experience to explore potential career interests. This may include attending career interest fairs and/or workshops, shadowing professionals, or volunteering in the community. These activities allow you to learn more about yourself and your interests, gain experience that you document in a resume that you present at job fairs, be competitive for internships, and build your professional network. Many colleges and universities have career centers with ample resources and personnel to help prepare you for life after college