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10 Tips for Surviving Your First Year of College

Busy preparing for your first year of college? It’s only natural to be nervous, as college life is like nothing you’ve ever experienced before. Follow these 10 tips to successfully navigate your first year, while enjoy all the experiences and opportunity college has to offer!

1. Find a Few Great Places to Study

You’ll quickly learn that studying in your dorm room can be difficult, so a few places around campus where you can get work done and avoid distractions. This could be the library, a coffee shop or even a quiet area in one of the buildings where you have classes.

2. Show up for Class

This one seems obvious, but occasionally it will be tempting to skip class. Don't give in to temptation! If you do, you’ll miss out on valuable information that will impact not only your final grade but also how well you're prepared for your future. Maximize your investment by always attending class ready to learn from your instructors and your peers.

3. Join Study Groups

It’s much easier to motivate yourself to study when you know other people are counting on you to show up. Plus, this is a great way to befriend responsible students in your classes who share your interest and passion for the creative arts.

4. Meet with Your Instructors

Your faculty members schedule office hours so students will show up with questions. Make a point to attend office hours regularly to get help with projects you’re struggling with and show your professor you really care about the course. Plus, this is a great way to make a valuable connection with someone in your field who can offer career advice and even serve as a reference down the road.

5. Get to Know Your Academic Advisor

Your academic advisor is more than just the person sitting behind a desk scheduling your semester. They can help you with any issues you’re having with classes or your program as a whole. Don’t be afraid to lean on them for support if necessary.

6. Know that it’s Normal to Feel Nervous

Transitioning into college and starting to plan for your career are major life events. It’s only normal to feel scared and overwhelmed at first. These feelings will pass with time as you become more involved in your classes and campus life.

7. Strike a Balance

Find a healthy balance between socializing and studying. Too much of either one can lead to burnout, so make room in your life for each.

8. Make New Friends

Resist the temptation to go home every weekend to see your high school friends or family. College is a time to grow and really get to know yourself, so don’t miss out on all the opportunities to experience life in a creative community.

9. Explore Your City

Whether you’re new to the city or living in the area where you grew up in, it’s important to get out and explore. Fully immerse yourself in the city to take advantage of all it has to offer.

10. Participate in Extracurricular Activities

Our campuses are filled with clubs, volunteer opportunities and other student organizations, where you can have fun and get to know like-minded peers. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to grow your skills, learn more about yourself and become an active part of the student community.

Want to learn more about life at The Art Institutes? Request a brochure or call us at 1-888-624-0300.