Skills To Learn Before College

Adopting college life can be challenging for some students, especially if it is their first time living away from home on campus.

Here are the skills University Magazine recommend you should learn that will make it easier for you to transition into College life

1. Time Management

Managing your time is often one of the most challenging things new students make; In College or university, no one is there to remind you to attend your classes, study for your midterm exams, or tell you when your critical essay is due. So it would help if you learned how to prioritize your responsibilities and balance your school life and social life at College.

2. Setting

According to a recent study conducted by Dominican University, writing down your goals can help you achieve more. Your goals should be attainable but challenging, so you have to push yourself to accomplish them. Focus on both long- and short-term goals, and break larger goals down into smaller steps to help you see your progress.

3. Roommate Communication Skills

When living with roommates, the most important rule of thumb is to clean up after yourself. Agree on a schedule for cleaning shared rooms like bathrooms and kitchens. Also, work with your roommates to lay down some ground rules and always respect each other’s personal space and property.

4. Interpersonal Skills

You will interact with fellow students, instructors and professors, landlords and RAs, coworkers, and many others at college. Excellent communication skills will help you get the most out of relationships while in school and later in your career. Interpersonal skills are most often learned through social interaction, so get out there and meet people.

5. Networking

According to a study from Cornell University, 70% of all jobs are found through networking. Get a head start on your networking skills by learning how to introduce yourself and ask for advice in a professional way. Familiarize yourself with professional social media sites such as Linkedin and Google+ to help you get in contact with others in your chosen field. And, when you speak with leaders and other professionals, don’t be afraid to ask for advice.

6. Studying

In high school, students can often do well by memorizing facts. To be successful in college, you will need to learn how to take practical lecture notes, study for tests, do outside research, and seek assistance from professors and TAs. Talk with upper-level students and advisors who may be able to help you develop the right study skills.

7. Budgeting

Learning to manage their money is a critical skill for students on a tight budget. Start by estimating your income and expenses. Then prioritize your expenses and determine how much money you’ll need to set aside every month to cover those costs. Any leftover money can be used for extras like entertainment or dropped into savings.

Credit: Discover Student Loans