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Leaving home for college is quite the adjustment for you. You are excited about your new chapter.  You are exploring your new environment.  You are embarking on new adventures.  You are finding your voice.  You are getting involved.  You are adjusting to your new life.  You may even be a little homesick.  It might come as a surprised to you, but you are not the only one that is adjusting to the new chapter in your life.  Everyone at home has been affected by your departure to college. 

Your parents need time to adjust to you not being home every night, like you have been for the last 18+ years.  Your parents are not there to pick you up every time you fall. Your parents are not there to witness your latest triumphs.  Your parents miss you and are struggling with you not being home.

Similarly, your younger siblings are also adjusting.  Your friends back home are adjusting.  Your significant other is adjusting.  You part time job is adjusting.  The bottom line is, everyone is adjusting to you starting this new chapter in your life.  So, take some time to reconnect and maintain the connections back home.  Call your parents (or return their calls), let them know everything is okay.  Tell your parents about your latest triumphs, adventures, and what the resident down the hall said.  Your parents will appreciate you taking the time to think of them, they will appreciate your efforts to maintain/strengthen the relationship, and may have an easier time accepting your new position in life.  A phone call will go a long way and make a big impact. Carve out some time on Sunday to catch up and share your new world with your old world. 

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Campuses are relatively safe places.  There are people usually around at all hours throughout the day and night.  There are cameras.  There are campus courtesy officers and some campuses have their own police department.  Safety concerns impact college campuses, because of the campuses easy access.  Most of the doors are unlocked throughout the day and do not require anything for access.  It is easy to blend in with the student population; all you need is a backpack and you will blend right in.  Below are a few tips to help keep you aware of your safety while on campus.

1.       Save important phone numbers in your phone and ensure you have them saved wit quick access.

a.       Add Campus Security/Police.

b.       Add your Residence Hall Emergency Phone.

c.       Add your Resident Assistant.

2.       Adopt the Buddy System.  Try to avoid walking alone especially at night.  Going across campus to the library late at night, take a friend with you, meet up and go together.  Don’t have any friends to go with you?  Utilize your campus resources. 

a.       You have officers available to provide an escort with a simple call.

b.       Take the shuttle instead of walking.

c.       Research student groups and other resources on campus that provide services and focus on campus safety.

3.       Party Smart. 

a.       This is where having a buddy is extremely important. Go together, stay together, and leave together.

b.       Never leave your drink unattended and do not take a drink that is already open (or that you did not see being poured or accept from someone you don’t know.

c.       If you suspect trouble leave.

d.       Be aware of where you are and who you are with.

4.       See something, Say something.  If you notice something that appears to be out of the ordinary, if something seems off, or if there is danger call for help immediately.  It won’t hurt to have the campus officers check on things. 

5.       Be aware of your surroundings. Ensure you are paying attention to what is going on around you is extremely important.  Avoid texting while walking, play music on low or only use one ear bud. Be attentive and take time to see who is around you and what is happening.

6.       If you have a car, ensure it is safe and secure as well.

a.       Do not leave ANY personal items in plain sight. Thieves see value in anything they can exchange money, this includes textbooks, electronics, and other personal items.

b.       Lock your doors.  Leaving your doors unlocked or your windows cracked is an invitation for a thief to help themselves.

c.       Be aware of your surroundings.  Check the car before entering, look around to notice any lurkers, and look for anything that may be suspicious.

7.       Know safe places on campus.  Regardless of your location on campus, know your surroundings.  Actively preparing for the following scenarios will allow you to stay calm and think clearly during the situation.  Identify the closest exit or place of refuge and ways you can protect yourself in the following situations:

a.       Earthquake

b.       Tornado

c.       Hurricane

d.       Flooding

e.       Active Shooter

 

Safety cannot be guaranteed, but following these tips will assist as you navigate on campus.

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It is the second semester of your senior year and it is time to ensure you have things in place to be successfully admitted to a university this fall.  If you have not already applied for a university, now is the time to complete the process and below are a few tips to assist you in the application process.

1.        Be organized.  Take the time to create a file, get a notebook, or organize information on your computer. Being organized will help you to easily identify materials needed for each application and reference when needed.

2.       Know your deadlines.  In your planner, on your phone, or put on the calendar; whatever your system may be, just ensure you know the dates.  Once you know the deadlines, create new deadlines that occur 2-4 weeks prior to the actual deadline. If something could go wrong, it most definitely will when you wait until the actual deadline.  You are asking for your application to get lost in the mail, miss the postmarked deadline, or not allot enough time for your recommendation letter to be received, if you do not allow time for any possible mistakes. Give yourself plenty of time to complete the application requirements, but also leave room for error.

3.       Read the instructions carefully. Yes; almost all universities will require you to undergo a similar process to be considered for enrollment. However, each application will request the information in a different way. 

Be sure to read the information very carefully and ensure you are providing the exact information that is being requested. When your application is reviewed for admission consideration, if you have an incomplete application, do not address the essay question as listed, and do not include all requested documents, your application could be denied.

The application process can be extremely competitive, you don’t want to give the reviewers a reason to throw your application out of the pool.  Complete all sections, include all accompaniments, and thoroughly respond to the essay question.  

4.        Proofread EVERTHING! Take your time and complete your entire application and essay.  Walk away from it! Yes; walk away and come back in 24 hours. Using your fresh eyes, now review all the information you have completed on the application including your name, address, and essay.  Again, you do not want to give the reviewers any reason to disregard your application.  A simple spelling mistake could have an impact on your application.

5.       Gather necessary documents. A complete application will take some time to complete.  You will need the following for your application to be completed:

a.       Thorough responses to all parts of the application.  Ensure each area requesting information is completed.

b.       A well-developed essay. Take your time to develop your main idea, supporting information, and conclusion that ties everything together.  Be sure to answer the question that the application is specifically requesting.  Recruit a second pair of eyes to proofread and provide feedback.

c.       Minimum of three letters of recommendation.  Make sure you formally and personally ask each recommender.  They may require a resume, a list of your awards, and to know more about your career goals.

d.       Proof of income. You will need to work with your parents to secure the requested documents that provide proof of your household income.

e.       Obtain your transcript.  You will need official copies of your transcript. Copies will cost you per copy and require that your account is clear of any other outstanding charges. 

 

Follow these steps and watch the decision letters welcoming you to your new university roll in.  Good luck in the application process.

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The summer is winding down and it is almost time to head to school. You’re almost ready, but before you leave for school, you want to ensure you have all of the necessary “tools” to be successful.  As you embark the new chapter in your life titled college, do not become overwhelmed anxiety.  Small bouts of anxiety are normal and using the helpful tips below will hopefully allow you to ease the anxiety and transition smoothly. Below can assist you in creating your checklist regarding the things you need to complete prior to your arrival will help with the transition.

  1. Confirm your orientation.  You will need to know what day you will need to arrive.  Haven’t received orientation information? Giving the Admissions office a call and confirm date, time, and location.  You will also need to confirm is the orientation all day, overnight, and if there is anything you need to bring. Be ready as you could do everything from tor the campus, to selecting courses for the semester, to complete all financial aid documents.
  2. Confirm your housing. At this point you should know where you are living.  If you don’t know at this point, give Residence Life a call and see if your application was received, if you have a placement, and if they know your assigned roommate.
  3. Get to know your roommate.  Most institutions will send your housing assignment with contact information for your new roommate.  Utilize the information, reach out to them and start to build the relationship early.  Become friends on social media, determine a shopping list for your new space.  You don’t want to both show up with two microwaves, fridges, and vacuums.
  4. Start gathering your belongings.  In your housing welcome packet there should be a list of suggested items for you to consider. You can also find lists with a quick Google search. You will be surprised how many items you have when you begin to gather everything.  Start early and gather a small piece at a time, start with books, kitchen items, food, and end with your clothes. Believe it or not, you don’t have to take everything you own with you.  You will be back in 4 months (maybe sooner if your university offers a Fall Break) and you can exchange items and grab things you may need.
  5. Get supplies.  In addition to your usual notebooks and pens, you will need additional supplies as you prepare for school.  Consider laptops/tablets, what device will work best for you? You will have term papers to write, PowerPoint presentations to create, and research to complete. How will you accomplish these task and what tool will be the best to help you accomplish the task? Also, know the tools of your major are you an art student, are you an athlete, are you in theater? Consider the tools special to your trade.
  6. Save as much money as you can.  You will need money for many items such as textbooks that can range anywhere from $50-$200 each for your 6-8 classes. Although you will most likely have a meal plan, you will need food for after-hours meals. You will need to shop for essentials for your room; think shower caddy, lamp, bathrobe, and much more. In general, you will want money just to have in the event you and your new friends decide to go on a coffee run, grab a movie, or hit the popular diner down the street.
  7. Consider transportation.  How will you get to school? Once you arrive, will you need to get around? Some campuses are a brisk five-minute walk, while other require a more calculated transit. If you do bring your car, where will you park it? These are all things that you need to consider when considering if a car will be needed.
  8. Say your goodbyes.  There will never be enough time and this next chapter in your life will move at lightening speeds. Speed time with your grandparents, close friends going to other universities, little siblings, and most of all your parents.  Your transition to college not only affects you, but everyone that has regular contact with you. Do your best to spread your time among family, work, and friends before you leave.

Take time to create your “Off to School Checklist”. The checklist will keep you mindful of the items you need to complete prior to your departure.  Use your resources to ensure you are well-equipped and prepared for this next step in your life. Talk to older siblings, review information provided by the university, read the Freshmen Survival Guide, and use search the internet for other resources available. After you complete this checklist you WILL be ready!

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list clip art           With the close of the school year, it’s time to start thinking about your plans for next year. What classes would you like to take or are there any clubs you’re interested in joining? Thinking about these kinds of things ahead of time gives you plenty of time to make a decision instead of feeling like you are under pressure to make all your decisions right away. Sit down this summer and make a bucket list for next year!

In regards to class schedules, try to schedule classes as early as possible. Popular classes get chosen very quickly and you’ll want to make sure you get a spot. If you have certain classes you’re required to take by a specific semester try to take them as early possible. Class deadlines are the same as any regular deadlines-the earlier you meet the requirements the easier you will breathe.

Planning your activities out in conjunction with your class schedules can give you a better idea of how much free time you’ll have after all you want to do. Trying to overstretch yourself can end in you being exhausted and overwhelmed as opposed to feeling engaged in everything you want to do. Keep your schedule as full as you want it, but make sure to pencil in time for yourself as well. Take that rock climbing course you’ve always wanted to, check out that indie theater you keep saying you’ll attend, or go hang out in that coffee shop. Doing something for yourself can help make you feel at peace with the rest of the schedule that you can’t always control.

Whether you make your bucket list on a computer, write it down in a book, or just keep it in your head, having an idea of what you want to do can make your life much less stressful. Planning ahead can help you decide what is or isn’t the most important use of your time. A more thought out plan for the next year can give you more free time and leave you feeling in control. The idea of a bucket list for college might seem silly, but trust me. Checking off your wish list will give you a feeling of accomplishment unsurpassed by anything else.

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Accountability…it sounds so serious right? Well it doesn’t have to be.  You can make setting and achieving goals fun.  Keeping yourself on track does not have to be as boring as checklist and assessments.  Well this is a challenge to try something new and achieve your goals for the semester.  Try something outside the box to highlight the short term goals you have for yourself throughout the semester.  Allow your goals to go beyond just achieving an “A” in your classes.  Allow your goals to push you beyond just the grade book.  Focus on ways to improve your social, physical, mental, emotional, and financial health.  Create a goal in each area and really try to find ways you can set expectations, conquer fears, and learn something new about yourself.  Here are a few out of the box ideas on ways you can set goals and hold yourself accountable.

  1. Give yourself a reward.  A little bigger than a piece of cake, but smaller than a new car.  Think of something that you want that will be a motivating factor to help you focus and achieve your goal. Providing one large reward at the end or smaller milestone rewards will help keep you motivated to push toward the goal.
  2. Journal it.  Keep a daily/weekly reminder of your goals and what you are doing to achieve them. Constant reminders and progress assessments will keep you pushing.
  3. Find a partner.  There is nothing like having someone to encourage you along the way.  Find someone      that will positively support your goals.  You want someone that will not be a pushover and allow you to blow off your goals. You also want do not want someone that will push you so hard that the goal seems unattainable.  Lastly, you want someone that believes in what you are trying to achieve.  Sadly, your accountability partner may not be your best friend, or even a family member.  It could be a classmate, your roommate, or a coworker.
  4. Write a letter to your future self.  Describe your goals and the obstacles you had to overcome in order to make it to the end of the semester.  Tell yourself how proud you are and how you are so much better and stronger for sticking it out.  At the end of the semester, open the sealed letter and read what you “accomplished”.
  5. Vblog or keep a photo timeline of your progress.  Express yourself on YouTube or create a picture story of your journey.  Those two minutes could be the inspiration to help someone achieve their goals.  Knowing that you have an “audience” to report to will help keep you focused.

Goal setting is an important start to each semester.  Take time to find fun ways to keep you engaged to reach the end result.  An old-fashioned checklist works just as well, but finding new ways to hold yourself accountable allows you some flexibility on the journey.

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Do you know how to sell yourself professionally on paper? If not you should. Having a resume is a critical piece of your professional success. The resume is the first step in securing a position.  It is best practice to keep an updated resume on hand.  You never know when an opportunity will present itself.  Crafting a strong resume does not have to be intimidating.  There are resources available online and on campus to help you present the best version of yourself.

Below are tips to help craft a strong resume to show employers you are the best candidate for the position:

  1. Be professional in presentation.  Avoid colored paper, avoid adding your picture, and avoid overly casual email      address.
  2. Make sure your name stands out. Use a font and size that stands out and allows your name to be clearly and easily read.
  3. Use bullet points to help information stand out and easy to read.
  4. Use action words to describe your experience.  Each action word, should be a verb (in present tense if still      employed, in past tense if previously employed) to help the employer gain a complete understanding of the role you fulfilled.
  5. Don’t leave anything out.  No role or responsibility is too small.  Give the employer a full scope of your responsibilities.
  6. Fill the page. Do not leave blank space on your resume. If your information does not fill up one page find things to tell the employer about you.  The same rule applies if your information flows over to two pages. Discuss your service experience, describe computer skills, highlight awards, or share a concise mission statement. Blank space on a      resume is a definite no-no and should be avoided, so either delete or add information to get one or two full pages.
  7. Label each page. This very helpful tip can save your resume should your pages get separated.
  8.  Tailor your resume to fit the needs of the job.  Use the position description or job posting of to edit your resume.  Use the same “buzz” words used to describe the job throughout the resume. Using these words and crafting your resume will allow you to stand out and send the message that the position was created for you. If you are applying for jobs in multiple fields, craft a resume for each industry.  You can tweak each resume to highlight relative experience, use relatable key works, and leave out irrelevant  information.
  9. Be truthful. Only include information that can be verified and where you can provide examples or demonstrate your skills.  You do not want to put yourself in the position where your ethics are questioned by questionable information on your resume.
  10. Update regularly. Once you have crafted the perfect resume, it is important to regularly update it with your most current experiences.  Each time you gain a new skill or experience…add it to your resume! Get an award…add it! Present at a conference…add it! Publish an article….add it! Create/Develop something….add it!

Resumes evolve.  As you grow professional, so should your resume.  Each new position is a new opportunity to expand your resume.

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Schools out for the summer! It is a wonderful feeling and the best time to relax and recuperate after successfully completing two semesters.  The summertime is the best time to begin or continue fitness routines. You do not have time constraints between classes, assignments to focus on, and meetings to attend.  Taking time for yourself is important, but taking consistent time for your self should be the constant goal.   Physical and mental health is equally important during the summer months.  With classes not in session, your lifestyle may become more sedentary.  It is important to keep your body and mind sharp.  Below are tips to keep your mind and body sharp during the summer months.

Ideas for Physical Sharpness

  • Swimming
  • Hiking
  • Walks Around the Neighborhood
  • Cycling
  • Softball
  • Volleyball
  • Ultimate Frisbee
  • Train for a 5k
  • Try a Vegan Diet
  • Yoga

Ideas for Mental Sharpness

  • Read a book
  • Start a blog
  • Meditate
  • Take a personal enrichment course
  • Volunteer at a Summer Camp
  • Complete a book of Sudoku Puzzles
  • Participate in a Scavenger Hunt
  • Keep a summer journal
  • Start a Video Blog
  • Complete an internship