As a freshman, it's natural for you to want to have fun in college, but being able to be a person deserves respect. To achieve this, you must achieve good academic performance, especially if you are a scholarship recipient. Therefore, learn to find a balance between social life and academic activities, including preparing for life after graduating from college. College life demands responsibility and hard work. The good news is that you can lead a very successful college life by knowing what you have to do, planning, and doing it well.
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Part 1 of 3: Developing New Skills
Step 1. Make new friends
Students who are just starting college tend to feel overwhelmed. This is normal, especially if you are a freshman at your favorite college or university. However, don't let this situation stop you from socializing and getting to know new friends. Campus life is an opportunity to interact with people from various backgrounds who have their own uniqueness. Get ready to experience new things. If you feel nervous about meeting new friends, don't worry, because other people have experienced the same thing.
- Attend introductory events and intimate evenings, especially those held specifically for new students. Take advantage of this activity to meet new friends who both don't know anyone. This is where you can interact with a lot of people and still feel comfortable because they are going through the same thing.
- Introduce yourself to the people at the lodge. If you're studying, keep the bedroom door open so your friends will come by and say hello.
- Even if you've only just met one person, ask him to introduce you to his friends who might be suitable to be your friends. This method helps you build a network of friends quickly.
- Join a club or society. You can immediately make new friends by registering as a member of a student association, but there are other ways. College life provides many opportunities to get involved in activities you enjoy. Enroll in religious organizations, clubs, creative activities, sports teams, and study groups where like-minded people meet.
Step 2. Volunteer
Some colleges include charity work as part of their educational curriculum, but at the very least, there will be new friends you will meet through these activities. As a bonus, volunteering will improve the quality of your bio and open up opportunities to learn new skills, making it easier for you to find a job after graduation.
- Many colleges have volunteer coordinators or training offices where you can find information on charities that match your interests and skills.
- Volunteering is also an opportunity to get a job and take up a new hobby. For example, after volunteering at an animal shelter, it turns out that you love caring for animals and want to become a veterinarian. You never know if you haven't done it.
Step 3. Find your hobby
Campus opens up opportunities to do new things. Explore various opportunities that are at your disposal, for example by practicing drama, auditioning to be a concert performer, joining an arts group, or learning to dance folklore. In addition, you can start realizing your dream of becoming a writer, for example by writing magazine articles or campus newsletters.
Keep in mind that you won't necessarily have skills in every area you study and that's perfectly fine! Campus is a great place to experience vulnerabilities and explore new things regardless of your skill set
Step 4. Build a portfolio through campus activities
As a new student, you may not be able to determine what career you want to pursue. However, the sooner you decide, the sooner you can use your on-campus experience to get there. However, you don't need to limit your activities solely to achieving future goals, but use those goals as a basis for making decisions.
- Choose courses, even if only facultative courses, which are a source of knowledge and experience in starting your career.
- Don't miss the chance to get new experiences. Learning to compose poetry doesn't seem to be beneficial for students who choose to major in marketing. However, understanding poetry is a way of cultivating the creativity and expressive skills needed for the success of an ad.
- Keep project reports or papers that you are very proud of because they can later be used to prove your marketing skills, such as effective communication skills or ability to solve complex problems.
Step 5. Choose a major that you like
Getting good grades in a field you don't like is not easy. Do not choose a major just because of financial conditions or parental expectations. You're an adult and one way to prove that is to make important decisions for yourself.
- Consult an academic advisor or counselor. Visit on-campus job fairs and find out as much information as you can about the major you want and the job opportunities you can get after graduation.
- Many people are skeptical of a social or arts major (English, philosophy, theater, etc.) by saying, “You can't get a job if you choose art”, but they are wrong. Attending college means becoming an educated person by developing yourself thoroughly. Studying social sciences and arts will develop critical thinking skills and find creative problem solutions. In addition, you can learn to do analysis, innovation, and reflection. You will be surprised to find out how many jobs are available once you have these skills. If you are still unsure, look for career information on the internet that relies on English language skills. Choose a major you're passionate about, perhaps accounting or veterinary medicine.
Step 6. Know that you don't have to be the best
Many students enter college with the desire to get good grades or a certain treatment. As a result, they are disappointed if they don't pass the exam and blame the teacher for their failure instead of figuring out how to fix it. Don't act like this because you don't have to chase A's or top your class or be the best at anything else.
- Take responsibility for your actions. Admit if you make a mistake. Study harder to pass the next exam. Don't blame other people, close friends, classmates, housemates, or professors for your own actions.
- Remember that lecturers are not obliged to give special treatment to their students. Even if you're doing well, the teacher doesn't need to reconsider your grades if you're truant or don't complete assignments. Don't ask professors to change grades or provide specific policies for you.
- Don't be offended if you get rejected. The lecturer or other person refuses your request not because he or she is hostile to you, but because you are asking for something he or she cannot fulfill. Realize that being a mature person means not being easily offended and not being pushy if they refuse your request, even if it feels uncomfortable.
Step 7. Accept the fact that failure is normal
One way to be a successful student is to accept the fact that things don't always go the way you want them to. You can make mistakes, even big mistakes and not necessarily succeed in certain ways. At times, your life may even feel very chaotic. Don't look at this reality by saying that you are a loser, but see it as an opportunity to improve yourself.
- Get rid of your perfectionist nature. While perfectionism is often seen as a sign of someone who is ambitious or has a strong work ethic, perfectionism will stand in the way of your success and happiness. Perfectionism can stem from a fear of appearing weak or vulnerable. As a result, you hold on to unrealistic standards and interpret anything that isn't perfect as a failure. It also creates a habit of procrastination because you are very afraid of not doing the job perfectly. Making mistakes is natural because no one is perfect, including you.
- View challenges and failures as learning experiences. If you want to join a sports team and don't get selected, don't assume you're a loser. Ask the coach for feedback so you know which skills need improvement. Take every experience as a learning opportunity, even the unpleasant ones.
Part 2 of 3: Making the Best Academic Decisions
Step 1. Don't push yourself
Some students make the wrong decision by taking as many credits as possible to be proud of themselves. This method does not necessarily give good results because taking too many courses will drain energy so that no one gets good grades.
Take 4-5 courses each semester. If you want to take more, consult with your supervisor first, because he or she already knows how heavy the study load you have to carry and will provide advice on whether you can still afford if you add courses
Step 2. Introduce yourself to the lecturer
In addition to helping you in your lectures, getting to know the lecturers also makes it easier for you to get recommendations. The lecturer will find it easier to write a letter of recommendation if he or she knows you.
- Look for lecturers or teaching assistants who are willing to be mentors. Some universities determine mentors or mentors for their students.
- After introducing yourself to the lecturer, you will feel more comfortable if you want to ask questions or talk to them.
Step 3. Ask the lecturer if there is an opportunity to do research
This is very necessary if you study in the field of science. Don't think about whether it's too early to do this, especially if you want to attend medical school or want to enter a graduate program. Ask if undergraduate students can participate in research.
Look for opportunities to become a practicum assistant or research assistant
Step 4. Prepare the study room
Try to set up a specific space that is used only for studying. Do not use the study room to do anything other than study. Studying in bed makes it difficult for you to focus so that the results are not optimal. Study rooms make you really want to learn so you'd prefer to be elsewhere if you want to have fun and relax.
- If there's no dedicated space for studying, try to block distractions. Turn off the ringer, wear earplugs or listen to white noise or play soft music without lyrics.
- Determine some places to study. If you find yourself distracted or bored, move somewhere else, such as a quiet coffee shop or library.
Step 5. Create a study schedule to prevent stress
Full-time students usually have to take 4-5 classes with lots of homework and deadlines. You may also have to fulfill other obligations, such as working, volunteering, socializing, and exercising. You need to make a work plan to get the best out of it, but the results will be worth the effort.
- Prepare the agenda! The agenda can be in the form of a booklet or using the calendar app on your phone. If you already know how to use it, immediately put all your activities on the agenda. If you use an electronic calendar (such as Google Calendar), you can use reminders for important events. If needed, give a certain color according to the activity category, for example: sports, homework, social activities, etc. Having a daily activity log helps you see ahead of time if there are conflicting activities so that you can resolve them as soon as possible. For example, your team will be playing basketball out of town on Monday next week, but you have to take an exam on the same day.
- Save course material by course. Set up a place on a bookshelf or study desk to store the things you need most. Put your textbooks, papers, etc. in a certain place. Prepare an orderner to store course materials neatly. Put the assignment sheet into the orderner so it doesn't get lost.
- If you're taking classes online, make sure you check regularly. Lecturers usually upload information or announcements to the website. You will miss the news if you don't check it.
Step 6. Read the syllabus for each course
The syllabus is the main handbook containing important information for each course explaining the assignments, deadlines, and how they will affect your grades. Read the syllabus carefully no later than the first week of class and then record important dates on your agenda or calendar.
If you do not understand the information in the syllabus, immediately ask the lecturer. Eliminate confusion so you don't waste time making mistakes
Step 7. Take the lecture in class
This advice doesn't seem necessary, but many students are easily tempted by truancy, especially if the class is large enough and attendance isn't always recorded. Don't play truant so you don't miss important information and announcements. In addition, you go to college because you want to get an education. What's the point if you don't want to learn?
- If the class you are attending is not too big, the lecturer can see the absent students. While it doesn't reduce your grade, indifference is likely to discourage professors from helping you.
- Motivate yourself by calculating tuition fees. For example, at the beginning of the semester, you have paid a tuition fee of Rp. 15,000,000/semester. One semester will end in 15 weeks and this means the tuition fee/week is IDR 1,000,000. If you take 5 courses with 2 meeting sessions/week, this means that the tuition fee you spend for each session is IDR 100,000. Do you still want to skip class just to take a nap if you have paid IDR 100,000 for one meeting session? Does not seem.
Step 8. Complete the tasks to be done at home
Doing assignments seems like a waste of time, especially if the results don't affect the final grade. However, the lecturer gives assignments not without purpose, so just do it! Lecturers give assignments so that you better understand important concepts or skills needed when working on larger assignments, for example when taking exams or writing essays.
Step 9. Take good notes of the lecture material
The ability to take notes will have a direct impact on the ability to study for exams and college success. By taking notes, you must actively participate in class, listen to what is being explained, and sort out information that is important or less important.
- You may prefer to take notes using a laptop, but research shows that you memorize more easily if you take notes using a pen and paper.
- Write down all the explanations on the board because they will most likely be asked in the exam. Pay close attention to all information that is emphasized or explained longer.
- Collect slides over the internet. If applicable, complete your notes by printing the slides, instead of printing all the information that describes the slides.
- You don't need to write down every sentence completely. Use keywords and phrases to get the big picture. Don't overuse abbreviations or symbols that you don't even know what they mean.
- Colleges and universities usually provide academic advisors or counseling centers who distribute articles or conduct training, for example to improve note-taking and study skills. Make good use of these resources!
Step 10. Study diligently
If you managed to finish high school easily without needing to study much, college is very different. If you're not used to studying on a regular basis, you'll be overwhelmed with workloads and may not pass your exams.
- Use free time wisely! If you have 1-2 hours of free time between classes, study in the library. Learning little by little will be much easier than learning all at once. In addition, it is easier for you to memorize lecture material.
- Get to know your preferred learning style. If you find it easier to learn visually, use flowcharts, graphs, and pictures. If you prefer to learn by listening, make an effort to pay attention when the teacher is teaching in class or explaining lecture material to yourself. Identify the most suitable learning style and then use it.
- Look for information to find out various learning styles through the internet for free. Academic service centers usually provide useful information.
- Provide 2 hours of study time / week for every 1 hour of learning in class. If you study 12 hours/week (standard time for 4 courses), you will have to study at home 24 hours/week in order to graduate.
- Remember that you are on campus to learn information and skills. The ability to get a job depends on the courses listed on the score sheet to explain what knowledge you have mastered. The only way to develop that knowledge is by studying.
Step 11. Take advantage of the added value
Lecturers don't have to add value, but if they do, take advantage of this opportunity! Additional grades can improve grades if you are not sure about your study performance so far.
- Take the opportunity as soon as possible. Don't wait for the last chance to get extra points because you don't know what will happen so you don't miss the opportunity.
- If you need to improve your study performance, ask your teacher to give you an opportunity so you can get additional grades to improve your grades. The professor may refuse your request (because he doesn't have to agree to it), but it's okay to ask politely.
Step 12. Use available resources
Many resources are available to students to support successful learning. Look for information through support services and resources you can use. Don't think of yourself as weak or ashamed for asking for help because you must have the strength and courage to admit that you are going through a difficult time.
- Many colleges provide tutoring and/or writing services. If you're having trouble learning a certain subject or need help writing, take advantage of these resources! Besides being free, tutors are able to help students with problems, so they won't judge or put you down.
- Campuses usually provide job fairs. You can use this service to create a good bio, practice interviewing skills, find work or volunteer opportunities, and plan a career path.
- Don't forget to take advantage of the library! Librarians are not only tasked with placing books on bookshelves. They are able to provide information on book titles that are worthy of reference and you can use to complete assignments. Make an appointment to consult with him if needed. You will be greatly helped after getting useful book title information from the librarian.
- Look for information about the student services department (the name of this section may vary by campus) which opens courses, provides mentoring services, counselors, tutors, etc. so you can improve your study skills, take notes, make schedules, manage your workload, and many other aspects of your college life.
Part 3 of 3: Making the Right Decision
Step 1. Borrow education funds as needed
Many people borrow money excessively. Even though interest is not charged, you are still obliged to pay off the loan. Don't burden yourself with large debts that can only be paid off after you retire.
- Do not take a loan according to the amount offered. Adjust the amount to a reasonable cost of living so you don't borrow too much.
- If you have to borrow money personally, look for information on the lowest interest rates. You can get a lower interest rate if the parent or guarantor co-signs the loan contract, but remember that the guarantor is responsible for paying off the debt if you can't afford it.
Step 2. Explore the possibility of working part time
Working is a way to make ends meet so you don't have to add to debt and this will affect your bio after graduation. Consult with the competent authority at the campus financial institution whether you are eligible to study while working in order to be able to pay the tuition fees from the salary you earn.
If you can, find work to develop skills that you can use later in life. For example, being a receptionist on campus is not a fun job, but the skills you gain, such as organizing and introducing programs will be useful if you work after graduation
Step 3. Take care of your health
A lot of stress on campus makes you more likely to experience emotional, physical, or mental health problems. Don't neglect your health to make your daily life more enjoyable. Take care of your health by exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and taking counseling if needed to keep your health in top shape.
- Make time for exercise to stay healthy and positive, as well as prevent weight gain. Do physical activity for at least 30 minutes/day. Remember the adage that says: "a little bit later becomes a hill". Get in the habit of taking the stairs instead of using the elevator. Walk to and from school instead of taking the bus or driving a car.
- Eat healthy foods. Many food menus and canteens that never close tend to provoke you to eat fried chicken and drink sweet drinks during college. Get in the habit of eating a balanced menu to get nutritional intake that supports your learning performance. Limit consumption of sugar and processed foods. Make sure you eat enough fresh fruits and vegetables. Also pay attention to the habit of eating snacks that usually do not contain calories and make you feel full quickly.
- Adopt a healthy nightly sleep pattern. Don't stay up late doing activities according to schedule. Get into the habit of going to bed and getting up early every day, including weekends. Do not consume alcohol, caffeine, or nicotine within 4 hours of going to bed at night. Get enough sleep because teens need up to 10 hours of sleep every night.
- Get counseling if needed. The first year of college may be stressful and scary. Look for information about counseling services on campus. A counselor can teach you how to manage time and relieve stress, help you mend troubled relationships, and listen when you need to express emotional baggage. Don't wait until you feel overwhelmed! Just like brushing your teeth, mental health also needs to be cared for to stay healthy.
Step 4. Postpone other activities
If your campus has student association activities, you may want to join as a member. However, many assignments and busy class schedules can interfere with learning performance and lead to failure. A study shows that campus activities can lower the GPA by 5-8% just because they join a student association. Postpone until semester 2 or 3 after you are able to find a balance between study obligations and personal life.
If you register as a member of the student association since the first semester, join the education division. This way, you are more focused on learning activities and can choose certain academic subjects so that you can build a network that supports your career in the future
Step 5. Learn to prioritize
As a student, you have many obligations that feel equally important. Learning to determine which commitments and responsibilities you should prioritize is a way of finding a balance between studying obligations and other activities.
- Think carefully about what you need and what will give you the greatest benefit.
- Sometimes, you have to prioritize studying for an exam over hanging out with friends because you need more time to study. However, you also need to take a break to maintain your mental health by playing video games or relaxing at a coffee shop for 1-2 hours with friends to get your spirits up again. Learn to determine what you really “need”.
Step 6. Don't give up
Keep this very helpful advice in mind while you are in college. Don't let adversity or mistakes discourage you, but try to get up again and pursue your goals. Once you give up, you are bound to fail. The only way that you will succeed is to keep trying.
This applies also in everyday life, not only in learning. Maybe you want to stop trying if you get a bad grade. A C that you get in your midterm will keep you from getting an A at the end of the semester, but your score will only get worse if you don't put in the effort. So study harder so you at least know that you won't fail
Tips
- Try your best to get a high IP in the first semester. It's easy to lower the IP, but very difficult to increase it again. In addition, the lessons will be more difficult and the activities will be more after you become a senior student. Starting college with a high GPA makes it easier for you to keep it above average when you graduate.
- If possible, do not work in the first semester. Being a freshman is an opportunity to join clubs, social groups and have fun! Don't work in the school cafeteria because you'll regret not having enough time to hang out with friends.
- Find a balance between learning and having fun.
- Choose only 1-2 fields for internships. Having a lot of experience in various fields may sound great, but it is less impressive to employers. When looking for an internship, apply for the job you want if you have graduated from college. When you apply for a job after graduation, employers will remember who you are and are more likely to hire you because of your experience, instead of choosing someone who has never worked for their company.
- Find a place to live as soon as possible. Living off campus can provide its own pleasure. If you can meet friends and have fun in your dorm more often, your life will be more independent if you have your own room, your own kitchen, and your own sitting room. You will be free from problems with roommates early in college if you have your own bedroom. More privacy, less problems. You don't have to live in a dorm if you want to socialize. You can still meet friends or those who meet you.
- Be an organization manager. Often, students who join organizations or clubs finally decide to quit because they feel they are not involved or do not contribute much to the organization. If you want to get involved, take on a specific role, such as being a social media administrator, event coordinator, or financial manager. Whatever it is, don't just be an observer, but take responsibility and be someone who benefits the group.
- Try to get to know all the professors who teach you. Lecturers can be good sources of information and mentors. They are experts in the field you are studying, have connections, and can provide the right direction, but more importantly, they are fellow human beings. Many students keep their distance from the lecturer and only interact when answering questions and giving grades. However, if you look at the professor without a degree, you will be surprised to see how much you two have in common. They are not answering machines. Try to get to know them better.
