Preparing for College in the Wake of Covid-19
As we stare down the end of summer, we as a country are about to embark on a new journey together. However, this journey centers on arguably the most important thing in many people’s lives; their children. This fall, college students are going to be returning to school with a new normal that is still hard to understand. We here at Pinnacle know how difficult this transition is normally, without Covid-19, and how much more difficult it will be because of the circumstances surrounding it. Here are some useful tips on how to tackle your first year of college, for both parents and their children!
While most colleges are preparing to offer in person classes, the first and most important thing to understand is that this must be taken as an ever-evolving situation. Some classes may be strictly online, some may be both, and some may actually be delayed. Regardless of the new dynamic, the first and most important thing you can do in your first year is introduce yourself. Whether in person or online, take the time to talk with your classmates sitting around you, or those you may be assigned to work with. The beautiful thing about college is that every professor is required to hold office hours. You can use this time to speak with your professor, ask questions about the course, or simply ask for advice for your future. We live in the age of information, which means that even in the case of virtual school, you have access to a campus directory. You can use this as a tool to acquaint yourself with students you may be living with when campus opens! This is useful from both a social and academic standpoint, and actually leads me to my next point; set yourself up for success.
There is a common cliché that goes something like this: you determine your future, so set yourself up for success. This starts with your friends and extends to your academia. From an academic standpoint, you can set yourself up for success by establishing a clear and organized methodology from the get-go. College is different than middle school, high school, AP classes and the like. This is why a clear and organized plan to do your work and follow each classes curriculum is extremely important. If you find your work difficult, your schools’ campus, or potential online learning center, will have tutoring programs available to you. Do not be afraid to utilize these. One thing you will learn quickly in college is that tutoring is widely used and extremely helpful, even for the most specific classes. These tutors not only help you with understanding the material, but also teach you the best ways to complete your work and understand new material. Outside of your schoolwork, it is crucial that you maintain a healthy lifestyle. Be sure to continue to eat healthy, exercise, and get regular sleep as much as you can. This will contribute to your academic success as well as your innate happiness while transitioning from a kid to an adult. College is a place to show your independence and learn how to take care of yourself, all starting with your health.
