College is scary. College is important. College is fun. College is the last stop before getting off at that station everyone eventually ends up in.
It is about tons of new beginnings and even more endings. It is where kids learn that they have to grow up whether they want to or not.
It is where they figure out who they are and what they want to do for the rest of their lives.
And it all should happen in four years. Well, ideally.
Most college courses are to be finished in four consecutive years—freshman, sophomore, junior, senior. Four years and you are out. Many kids do not finish in four years.
Well here is how to finish on time. It is not all that hard but it is not a cakewalk. It will take perseverance, diligence and resourcefulness to finish on time but it can be done. Here is how:
Your course
First and foremost, decide whether or not this is the course and major you want. Is this what you want to be doing for the rest of your life? Is this the right school for you? The most important thing is to be sure of your school and course. Not being sure and not being certain will cost you time, money and your future. Be sure.
People
Evaluate the people around you. Can they help you achieve your goals? This is not about whether or not you can use them to get to the top but rather, if you can count on them not to derail you with their shenanigans.
Will your friends be too much of a distraction for you to focus on studying? Your social life is important but you are at school to learn too, not just to party. Understand that balance is important and with fun comes responsibility too.
Resources
All the hard work and diligence in the world will not get you through college in four years if you cannot pay for it. Unless you are a scholar, you have to have a stable income paying for your school tuition. If not, inquire about scholarships with your school.
Nothing in life is free and school is no different. If you need a job, get a job. You will have a harder time balancing your life but if you need to, you need to.
Love life
This is different from your social life. The responsibility of being in a relationship with another person can and will take its toll on your academics sooner or later. If you are not ready to be in a committed relationship with another human being yet, do not get into one.
The trials and tribulations of young love get in the way of a school work because couples think that the most important thing in the world is their partner.
Be responsible and remain focused on the goal. Get your degree. Your significant other, if he or she truly loves you, should help you attain that goal and not distract you from it.
It is not all about school work
It is important to have a good relationship with your college secretary and administration. They can help you get the classes you want and make sure that all your affairs are in order.
College is about being able to take care of yourself because that is how it is in the real world. Stay on top of your academics by staying on top of your units, classes and other aspects of college not in the classroom.
Study
Many students forget to study. Study! That is how you get to finish college in four years, by putting in some work and studying. Never forget that.
Students will have it rough. There will be so many requirements and exams and tests to accomplish. It will be hard work. That is what college is though. Just stay focused on your goal and follow these steps and you will be marching with your class, getting your diploma and saying goodbye after four years in no time.