Top 3 tips for college freshmen

When a student leaves home for college, it can be quite an emotional experience. For many, it will be the first time that they have been away from their parents for an extended period of time. It's not always easy to know exactly what to expect and what mistakes to avoid as they begin their journey through higher education. The following are tips for college students who want to have the best experience possible.

1. Sleep is key

When it comes to staying fully engaged academically, getting enough sleep is vital. While staying up late can be tempting, establishing a consistent sleep schedule allows students to focus on what their professors are saying and take detailed notes. This could mean consulting with roommates and people in neighboring rooms and asking them to be quiet after a certain hour.

2. Eating right

As freshmen start their classes, many will have less-than-healthy eating habits, with lots of pizza and other high-fat food becoming part of a their regular diet. The so-called "Freshman 15" refers to the 15 pounds that many gain during their first year of school. However, a healthy blend of vegetables and fruits, along with high-protein meats and cheeses will ensure students don't gain too much weight.

3. Finding a mentor

The whole process of beginning a new academic career can seem daunting. A student should never feel afraid to ask someone with more experience for help when he or she needs it. A mentor can be anyone from a professor, with whom a new student shares a bond, to an upperclassman who is willing to show him or her how to succeed. Getting a proper support system in place can make new students feel better about their college experience and help them avoid road bumps that they may have otherwise encountered.

While there's no fool-proof way to ensure a pain-free freshman experience, knowing what path to take can go a long way. While some may be tempted by the many distractions on campus, staying focused on an academic career will take a person far.

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