Tips for New College Students

Tips for baby boomers going to college

If you are a new student or a baby boomer heading for college, this article is for you.  

Here are ten tips for college students that may be of help.

Academic probation:

As a new student or baby boomer, if you have been out of school for some time, you may still be allowed to attend college. If you are told you can enroll, but that you may be placed on academic probation, for the first six months; do not be alarmed. That means that the college has relatively high standards and they want to be certain that you, as a new student or an adult learner, are at an academic level where you can succeed. You may need to upgrade first, in order to qualify for entrance into certain courses. For example, you might need to do some upgrading in English, mathematics or chemistry. Colleges welcome adult learners.

Consider becoming a part time student:

Since you may not have not taken courses for a number of years, you may find it difficult to take a full, course load. Consider entering college as a part time student initially, rather than entering college, as a full time student. You may be able to sit in on a class for a while, before you need to enroll. You can also take a course that is on an interest level rather than one in which you have to do all the assignments, in order to receive a credit. This is easier if you are not certain about the academic direction you want to go. Start with a course like pottery, flower arranging or art classes. These are fun and you will enjoy learning some new skills. Let your creativity flow.

Purchase a laptop:

Purchase a laptop computer, if possible. If you have a desk top computer at home, it may suffice, but a laptop computer is more convenient and you can take it to class. A printer is a good investment. Depending upon what course you are taking, you may be able to work directly from home, rather than having to attend sessions in the college. Keep hard copies of everything you submit to your professors or instructors. You may be able to obtain your course outline online and take online tests. Find out if there is a computer network setup for the classroom, or if you are expected to operate your laptop with batteries. Learn where you can get technical support, at a reasonable cost. The college will be able to give you appropriate guidelines for laptops.

Plan to upgrade your computer and computer skills, first:

Spend some time upgrading your computer and computer skills, before you head for college. Learn how to use the Internet properly. Find a current Word program and practice your writing, typing and graphic skills, as you may not have time to do that once you are involved in your course. Make certain that you have the programs that you need on your computer. Many of them can be downloaded, at no cost. Find out how to use these programs properly, if you are not familiar with them.

Speak with your professors about your course:

Speaking with your professor ahead of time about your course can prevent problems later. Find out exactly what his or her expectations are, as the course may not be what you thought you would be taking. He or she will be able to advise you of specific course requirements. If you are an adult learner, there may be a tutor who will assist you. Don't hesitate to enroll in a different course, if the one that you have been considering is not what you want to take.

Browse in the bookstore

Find out ahead of time what your required textbooks are and do serious browsing in the college bookstore. You may be able to obtain all of your textbooks, immediately. The bookstore may order them for you, if necessary. You might also be able to pick up used or second hand textbooks, which will be less expensive. Learn where you can purchase books on the Internet. You may be able to borrow copies of books you will need from a local library. In the bookstore, you should be able to purchase other things that you need, at a reasonable price. 

Talk to other college students:

If you have not been attending a college for some time, remember there are always changes taking place in colleges. Spend some time talking with other students. They will give you college updates and basic information about college life, events, appropriate attire and how to avoid pitfalls. You will enjoy getting to know them too.

Invest in a backpack:

Investing in a good backpack can make carrying your lunch, books and laptop, easier. You may be assigned a locker, but lockers in large colleges can be located in out of the way places. It might be easier to take everything with you, but do not plan to carry things that you do not need, as you may have to walk farther than you expect. Purchase a good pair of walking shoes or runners, just in case.

Learn the layout of the college:

Before your classes start, spend a few hours visiting the college, so that you know its layout rather than having to ask someone or try to figure it out, at the last moment. You need to be able to find the registrar's office, library, bookstore, cafeteria, coffee shop, washroom facilities, other labs and gymnasiums. 

Register for your course

When you go to register for your course find out the exact date, time and location of the course. Be prepared to take a course offered at an unusual time, including evenings or even Saturdays. When you are registering for your course, make certain you find out about the parking facilities, special needs facilities, as well as additional costs or fees, so that you do not have a surprises, at a later date. Picking up a college calendar is a good idea too, as it will contain a road map for the college.

Following these ten tips will make going to college easier. Expect to see students, new and old, as well as other  baby boomers. You are going to make a whole collection of new acquaintances and encounter challenges. That, in itself is fun.

Go to college with an attitude of eager anticipation. More than likely, you will enjoy every moment of your college experience.