If you have already dipped your toes into the fast-moving waters of higher education or are preparing to attend, you know that there are factors at play that will help you on your way to collegiate success. They are varied and depend on your unique situation. Read on for some tips on how to be successful in college.

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Be Cyber Safe

When you look at universities to attend or return to, you want to ensure they do their utmost to secure all aspects of their digital world. A university cybersecurity assessment will be in order if they have not kept up-to-date with the best practices of cybersecurity. 

You are certainly already aware of what it takes to make good decisions in the virtual world. Now that you are on your own, you still need to be vigilant about what you post online and who you choose to communicate with in that realm. Always play it safe by removing geolocation features from your photos. Opt not to post your every activity and plan online. 

Remember to stay current on your antivirus software for all your digital devices. Use caution when connecting to public wifi at your university. You will likely be doing so as your form of connectivity. Due to the volume of users on the wifi at any given time, practice good cyber safety and run scans on your devices routinely.

Be Safe

While you should feel comfortable in your environment, be mindful of your surroundings. This is especially important at night and when you are walking alone. Alert devices such as Flare and Birdie are useful tools to keep handy. Know the number and operating hours for Campus Security in addition to how to call for an escort when you are alone. Walk with friends when you can, and keep your phone charged. Share your location with those in your circle and agree to check in with one another at routine times (as a bonus, this is a mental health moment because you are showing someone you care about their well-being and vice versa).

Find Your People

In the first days and weeks of immersing yourself in campus life, there will be opportunities to join clubs, groups, or athletic teams. The way to meet new people and find out who you are beyond your high school identity is to expand your horizons. If there is a meet and greet for your dorm, go to it. This is a great chance to meet the people you will share a bathroom with. When your 8:00 am class holds an impromptu study group for the next test, grab your reusable coffee cup and join in.

Whether Greek Life holds interest for you or not, consider attending the activities. You do not have to commit to anything, and you might meet your best friends standing in line for the free food. When mixers for Student Ambassadors are announced, go see what the buzz is all about. Perhaps you will want to join, and maybe you will find you have no interest. Either way, you will learn more about your school and the people that attend with you.

Discover a Major or Learn More About Yours

Knowing what you want to do with the rest of your life is not always a linear event. Sometimes it takes time and trial and error to figure out your path. When faculty hold events for their respective college or major, you should attend. 

Go to a handful of different advisors in different majors to talk with them about what you can do with a specific major after you earn your undergraduate degree. Pick their brains to learn more about whether you will need a master’s degree or more to become successful in that career field. Inquire about the different professional possibilities you can attain with the degrees. The advisors are key to helping you find your future. Lean on them, with respect, to learn what you need to be successful in their university.

Apply for Financial Aid

Regardless of what you think you will be eligible for in terms of financial aid, fill out the forms. The first place to look is with the federal government. Fill out the FAFSA or Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Next, look at your university’s financial aid options. They will have their own paperwork and deadlines. Know when they are and mark them on your calendar. Your high school’s guidance counselor or university’s financial aid office can answer any questions you may have during the process to avoid excess debt.

Watch this video to learn more about how to fill out the FAFSA.

 

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Engage in all that the college experience has to offer you. Learn the nuances of your campus, and stay secure online and in person. Enjoy it all and learn as much as you can.