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A Day in the Life
Navigating the Not-So-Average College Experience
Though U.S. colleges can vary widely from one to the next, the overall undergraduate experience is made up of fairly consistent, even universal, elements. Most schools, for example, have a food court and a health center. Campus layouts, in terms of the positioning of common space and parking lots, often echo one another. And faculty and students are, for the most part, friendly, informed, and approachable. But for incoming freshmen, the average day on campus can be anything but. Here are some tips for managing your time between—and after—classes.
Starting the Day
Your daily commute could involve simply stepping out your front door, or driving 30 minutes across town—it all depends on where you choose to live. Carefully consider each option: Dorms and residence halls are slightly more expensive than some private rentals, but they offer a great way to meet people, they're usually within walking distance of campus, and they often include meal packages that make it easy to grab a quick bite on the go.
If starting the day early isn't your style, you're in luck. Most schools offer a full spectrum of courses with many times and days to choose from. Your schedule could consists of hour-long classes on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays; 90-minute courses on Tuesdays and Thursdays; a night class (usually 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. once a week); Saturday morning sessions; or any combination thereof.
The trick to planning your schedule is to find the right classes in convenient time slots. At most schools, registration priority rises with seniority, so you'll increasingly have the ability to customize your schedule.
Into the Afternoon
College is not only for earning a great education, but also for meeting people, relaxing, and socializing. Spend your time between classes playing ping-pong with friends in the student lounge, or schedule a midday break that's long enough to hit your dorm for lunch or a short nap.
Free time is also ideal for perusing bulletin boards around campus, which advertise part-time employment opportunities, secondhand furniture, membership in campus groups, and more. Bulletin boards can usually be found in high-traffic areas such as recreation halls and cafeterias.
Regardless of how you choose to spend it, remember that scheduling an adequate amount of downtime is essential in rejuvenating your spirit and preparing for the day's next challenge
The Night Life
The area immediately surrounding your campus will have a major impact on your overall college experience. If you're the type who prefers spending nights at home or watching movies with friends, you will likely thrive in a regional or rural setting—such campuses are typically known to be less populated, somewhat safer, and more conducive to laid-back fun.
On the other hand, bustling urban campuses often facilitate a more active social scene, complete with live music and theater, clubs, and professional sporting events. Whichever you choose, take some time to get to know your new surroundings so that your evenings out—or in—are safe, fun, and worry-free.
by Hannah Roberts, staff writer
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