5 Things to do Before College Starts in Fall
Written by Amy J. Silver // 06/11/2011 // Academics // 1 Comment
By Amy J. Silver
Starting college is one of the most exciting times in a person’s life.
While you’re probably counting the days until the start of your college education, you’ve got a whole summer ahead of you. Make sure you make every second of summer really count. Here’s a list of five things to do before college starts this fall.
1. Make a “Hometown Bucket List”
What are you going to miss the most when you leave? Get all your high school friends together and make a “bucket list” comprised of everything you all want to do before college starts.
Head to your favorite breakfast joint or grab a cup of coffee at your favorite coffee shop. Say goodbye to your favorite shops and boutiques. Take a day trip out to a nearby town or attraction. Make it one last summer to remember forever.
2. Start Volunteering
You already know that volunteering is one of the best ways to boost your college application. Colleges love to see that you’re using your time wisely. However, did you know that volunteering can boost your college resume, too? Future employers pay close attention to volunteer work. Better yet, getting volunteer experience in your future career now can help you decide if your chosen major is right for you.
If you’re a history major, volunteer at a history museum. If you’re a sociology major, spend some time volunteering at state offices or women’s shelters. Finding volunteer experience applicable to your major could save you thousands of dollars in tuition if you discover it’s not the right career choice for you.
3. Attend Orientation
Orientation is one of the best ways to meet your future classmates and tour your future campus home. Learn where the dining hall is located.
Look for cozy places to study.
Pay attention to where the student registrar, the financial aid office, and the library are all located.
4. Contact Your Future Roommate
This is the person you’re going to be living with for the next year, so try to make a good first impression. Work out between you who’s bringing what so you don’t wind up with two microwaves and two mini fridges. Make sure you guys work out a system for how you’re going to be paying for things/splitting things/taking care of things. There’s an app called Roomies App that’s pretty much perfect for this.
5. Get Packing
Your move-in date will come closer than you think. Start preparing for the transition early. Here’s a starter list of things you may need when you get to college:
• Shower shoes (shared shower room floors are pretty gross)
• Shower caddy (for all of your bathing accessories)
• Loungewear for lazy days (footsie pajamas are a no-go)
• Fitted sheets (dorm beds are oddly shaped, so be sure to check your future bed’s measurements)
• Closet organizers (space is very limited)
• Microwave-friendly meals (you WILL get hungry outside of dining hall hours)
• Camera (for capturing new memories)
• Room decor (those bare white walls will drive you mad after a while)
Off to College
College is one of the best times of your life, but don’t forget to make your pre-college summer just as memorable. What do you plan on doing before college starts this fall?
when you need extra money ..
calculate how much you need
select state travel guides (menu)
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One Comment on "5 Things to do Before College Starts in Fall"
Amy, as the lead developer of Roomies I sincerely appreciate the mention. If you or any visitor has feedback on how we could improve the app I’d love to hear it. You guys are the people we want to help.