Useful pointers to help you get ready to go back to school
Every summer – even in mid- July it seems – stores like to use the phrase “Back to School” in all their marketing and advertisements. This phrase is not always used in a positive manner as many associate back to school with the end of the summer and the end of a laid-back, carefree and happy season. Adults returning to school after an absence or adults going to college for the first time may already be dealing with some jitters, and seeing these sort of ads certainly won’t help matters.
It’s normal, however, for anybody to experience some slight anxiety before embarking on a new chapter in their lives, but returning to college or going to college for the first time does not need to be a panic attack-inducing experience.
Fortunately, increasing one’s own ability to prepare well enough ahead of time can make going back to school relatively stress-free. Here are a few helpful pointers on what you can do to ready yourself for the start of the semester… Hit the books…early Many college professors or course instructors have taught the course before or have prepared the syllabus well enough in advance. By simply emailing the instructor, you can ask to see the syllabus before the class even begins. If that is not available, you can at least find the required textbook(s) for the course. Purchase them at the bookstore (or online), and start to plan ahead. By the time the first day of class comes around, there will be no surprises, and you’ll already have a clear idea of the course content and expectations.
Familiarize yourself with the campus
Since you’ll be spending plenty of time on campus, you might as well become better acquainted with your surroundings. In the days leading up to the start of the semester, spend a couple of hours walking around campus and seeing all that it has to offer. Find out where your classrooms are located so that you will not be scrambling to find them on the first day of class. Check out the library and any common areas. If they are available, introduce yourself to your instructors and to your advisor. You can even go to the coffee shop on campus and get to know the barista. By the time mid-terms come around, they’ll know exactly how you take your coffee.
Find social networks
Nearly every college can be found on most social networks these days. Consider “friending” or “liking” your school on Facebook, following them on “Twitter,” or viewing informative videos on their YouTube channel. Not only will you be kept aware of everything happening on and around campus, but you may also meet new friends or even re-connect with old ones.
Enjoy yourself!
Whether you’re going to college for the first time, or returning after an absence of several years, college is a wonderful experience and campuses are vibrant and exciting communities. Immerse yourself in this community and make the most of it. Form study groups with your classmates, participate in classroom discussions, read every issue of the school newspaper from front to back…Do whatever you can to feel connected to your school and you will get the most out of your entire college experience.
Jon De Benedictis is a Recruiter and Adviser for University College, the part-time undergraduate studies program at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield and Stamford, Connecticut. A 2011 UPCEA nominee (University Professional & Continuing Education Association) for Outstanding Service in Continuing Education, Jon also instructs Continuing Education courses for the Town of Fairfield. Follow Jon’s Higher Education updates and information via Twitter at www. twitter.com/SHU_ UC.
