Do's and Don'ts'' As a College Student

The time has come where assignments are graded, finals are over, and just like that, the semester is over too. For most, this means that the first semester is over, for others, it means that their first semester is coming up in January. Either way, I would like to share some of the best advice/tips on what to do and what not to do during your college experience. As someone who is a transfer student, I have gone through orientation twice and I've gone through my 'first semester' twice as well, so you could say I've learned a lot along the way.

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Do's

• Get In Touch With Your Professors. At the beginning of each semester, you should be going up to your professors and introducing yourself. I promise you, they most likely have no idea who you are unless you introduce yourself. Not only will you build trust with your professor, but you will gain a professional to network with.

• Network. Network. Network. As a communications major, I can't stress this enough, you have to make an effort in networking. Start by introducing yourself to professors, as I mentioned. Most importantly, I recommend creating a professional LinkedIn account and following as many people or companies in your industry. Make connections!

• Get Involved With A Club or Organization. Find a community. College is the place to find your identity and who you want to be surrounded by. A great way to explore this is by joining clubs. For example, during this fall semester, I joined a multicultural sorority called Gamma Eta Sororiy, Inc. and I became involved with HSA (Hispanic Student Association) and more.

• Take A Break. Sometimes, it gets overwhelming, listen to your body and take a break when you need it. Go on a walk, read, listen to music, meditate, etc.

• Stay Hydrated and Protect Your Health. I have met many students who are severely dehydrated and barely eat a meal a day. Please... take care of your body! Protect your health, especially if you go to a big University. Getting sick is not uncommon, so make sure to take precautions.

Dont's

• Fall Behind. Make a schedule, buy a calender, look at your due dates and the time in which the assignments are meant to be turned in. It is very easy to fall behind when you aren't putting the efforts to stay on top of your assignments. The majority of the time, there is no 'grace period' or 'extra credit', stay on top of your school work!

• Surround Yourself With Bad People. There will be friends who support you, motivate you, and care for you. That being said, there will definitely be friends who encourage you to do wrong things, don't fall into this.

• Be Afraid of New Challenges. During your time in college you will be given the opportunity to intern places, join the e-board for clubs and organizations, etc. Don't be scared of trying something new, you can always learn along the way.

• Go Partying If You Have Somewhere Important To Be. I'm not saying not to have fun, I'm just saying be smart about your choices. If you have an interview at 7-9 in the morning, maybe don't stay out until 3 in the morning. Let's say you do go, great, maybe lay off the drinks. First impressions are everything, don't risk it just because you wanted to party.

• Be Afraid To Speak Up. There will be times, especially in an organization, where you have to express your individuality and not be afraid to speak up if necessary.

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