Many college students feel both excitement and trepidation about beginning a new stage in their life. Lots of people view it as an opportunity to gain deep intellectual knowledge while acquiring the skills they need to live on their own. It’s tough to be independent and keep up with school, but that’s the beauty of college.

As you prepare for college, it helps to make a detailed list of everything you may need. You need to be prepared for school to avoid calling your parents for items weekly. This is even more important if you will be attending a college that is far away.

Avoid waiting for the last minute: apply for grants and scholarships early enough. These important resources will help you to limit your future student loans. Make sure that all documentation and fees are submitted in the proper time frame.

Set realistic goals when you schedule you work and classes. If you are cranky in the mornings, maybe a harder early class is not the best choice. Know your natural body clock and adapt your schedule to flow with that as much as possible.

Study skill courses can be a lifesaver for those struggling with college. Alot of college students did well in high school, but they are lost in college. These courses will give you the tools that you need for college success.

Devote as much time as you can to studying each day. Time spent on education will yield positive results in the long run. It is okay to socialize, but treat college as if it were a job. Doing great in your classes will ensure that you make more money and have a better job.

As you prepare for an exam, take a few moments to double-check that you have all the materials you need. Not doing so can make you face a rather difficult disadvantage. Your professor is not going to babysit you and have these things available, so it is up to you to make sure you know what you need.

Before you go away to college you should know all you can about what you will be majoring in. You want to be sure that any college you choose offers the degree you need to get your desired job. If you are unsure, talk with an admissions counselor.

Try to develop excellent relationships with all your professors. Professors represent an incredible resource and have lots of help to offer students. Seek them out whenever you have a question or feel you can be of help in class. Having a good relationship with your professors will mean better grades and opportunities, so do not forget their importance in your success.

Always purchase used textbooks. Textbooks are not cheap and can cost several hundred dollars. If you are able to find them used, you will save a lot of money.

Schedule study breaks. Breaks are important during study sessions. Take a 10-minute break every hour while studying to help relieve stress. Make an effort to stick to the schedule you give yourself.

Try not to rely on electives alone as a method of selecting a major. For example, there are many clubs, groups and internship programs available on campus. Join co-op programs and organizations. College campuses always have something going on. You should try some new things, you might find a new hobby or passion.

Don’t hand in the first draft of any paper. Take time to revise it. Rather than just proofreading your paper, write out another draft. If you choose to write a second draft, be sure you proofread it and get it just right. This allows you to turn in your paper with confidence.

Rise and shine at an early hour. You don’t have to wake up at 5 in the morning, but waking up around 7 will get you a good start to the day if classes start at 9.

Stay in your school for a period of time before you consider transferring or leaving. You might want to come home; it is hard at first, but give college a chance. If you think your school isn’t working for you after a year, try considering options for the next year.

Try doing the best you can in work study positions whether or not they are involved with your major. Experience is always more important than education. When you have work-study and you do well, you can work off your college costs and start beefing up your resume.

Try using your knowledge to earn extra money while at school. Tutoring campus students, or even high schoolers, can prove lucrative. You can put up ads for your tutoring in the student common areas or bulletin boards. You can also post ads online.

Choose a school that you feel comfortable with attending. Once you make your choice, figure out how to pay for it. Never let cost sway you from the school that would serve you best. Once you figure out all of your finances and what assistance you can get, you’ll be able to get into the school you want.

Attempt to schedule your classes so they fit into your current schedule. When you don’t like to get up early, it’s better to avoid early morning classes. Look for a schedule which works with your own internal clock instead.

This article has hopefully given you the information you need to make smart choices about college. Use these tips and your college experience will be an enjoyable one.