Your Guide To Avoiding College Stereotypes
You’re not going to college to party, to live like you’re in some stereotypical college movie, or to waste your time. You’re in it for the education and the opportunity for personal growth.
But as they say, stereotypes exist for a reason. If you’re about to embark on your college experience or would just like to turn over a new leaf, here are some ways to avoid the pitfalls of the university environment.
Drink Responsibly (Or Not At All)
Despite how it may seem on many college campuses, alcohol isn’t a rite of passage or a mandatory part of leisure. Getting busted for underage drinking can leave a mark on your record that may make it harder to get work later, while irresponsible but legal drinking can impact your academic performance.
Don’t succumb to peer pressure. There are better (and more fun) things to do with your time on campus than getting drunk.
Eat Better
The freedom to choose when and what you eat is a big responsibility that a lot of college students struggle to do right. The stereotypical college staples like pizza and instant noodles are fine every now and then, but the rules of nutrition aren’t suspended while class is in session.
Use that student meal plan to build balanced meals at the dining hall and try to maintain a three-square-per-day schedule. Also learn how to shop smart and cook for yourself whenever you have the chance–those are skills that will serve you well for the rest of your life.
Escape Lecture Hall Boredom
Especially at large universities, it’s easy to get stuck in giant, impersonal classes with hundreds of other students. This kind of transmission-based education is only effective for some learners.
You’re paying for a quality education, so build your class list to reflect that goal. Opt for smaller classes whenever possible and look for opportunities to self-direct.
Modern, tech-based programs like the GW Online system at George Washington University mix telecommuting with real-world experiences, and many of the best institutions out there are adopting similar, flexible curricula.
There’s no reason to feel lost and anonymous when class starts.
Manage Your Finances
The stereotype of the perpetually broke college student may have less to do with inevitable realities of college life than the unfortunate spending habits and inexperience of college-age people.
College may be when you have your first credit card, checking account, and debt, so be smart and safe about the way you handle your money. Budget for each month and don’t rely on credit to see you through the lean days.
You’ll likely have student debt to contend with once you graduate, so don’t saddle yourself with additional private debt that will more negatively impact your credit score.
Approach college as an opportunity to learn the ropes of adult life in a safe environment, rather than as the last hurrah before adult responsibility. The skills you build on campus will be important for the rest of your life and the education you receive will serve as the foundation for your career.
About the Author:
Author Jane is a freelance writer who loves to write about anything from tech to mommy stuff. She is featured in many blogs as a guest writer, and can write with authority on any niche or subject.