1) Know the room numbers/building locations and write them down where you can check them easily. If you’re going to be going from building to building print out a map tonight so you can plan getting from A to B on time. I would always take a pad of paper or notebook the first day with my schedule and room numbers on it. If you do wind up in the wrong room, don’t worry. Just quietly leave and go to the right classroom– it happens all the time during the first week of school and no-one will remember you doing it.

2) Make an effort to introduce yourself to the student you sit next to. While you may not sit there all term, I find that stable seating plans seem to establish themselves after the first week or so. While you might be a little nervous or embarrassed at first, I promise everyone is feeling the same way and it is *so* important to know the name and e-mail of at least one student in every class. These are the people that can study with you or e-mail you assignments when you’re sick.

3)If you don’t have your textbooks yet and your college has a single bookstore, be warned: the lineups can get very long. Try to avoid going at peak times (eg lunch break). Getting up a little earlier can save you ages standing in line.

4) Take note of the conditions you buy your textbooks under. Some can’t be returned if you take off the plastic or open the CDs inside, some bookstores have extended return policies during the start of term so that if you drop a course after the first week or so you can still return the book. Also, if you buy used textbooks (which is a great idea and can save you a lot of money), pay attention to the edition number. Many of these books are re-issued every few years and while it makes no difference in some classes, in others an older edition can cause problems (doesn’t list the correct homework problems or page number won’t match the assigned reading list). If in doubt, ask your professor. They are used to fielding questions about their assigned textbooks.

5) Get to know your professors. This might not be something for the first day, but make an effort to talk in class during the first week. I’d recommend speaking to the prof after class or going to their office hours at least once during the first few weeks. If you’re genuinely interested in the topic, most profs will be delighted to speak with you, and a connection with a faculty member can be invaluable.

For prep: Get a good night’s sleep (even though you’re excited), have a nutritious lunch and pack some snacks (fruit is great) and a bottle of water. Wear neat/good, but comfortable clothes and dress for the weather.

I hope these tips help. Have a great first day. And remember: you’re not the only one who is nervous and excited. Good luck!

Many colleges have prepared in advance the names and editions of the books that you need. You may begin purchasing them. Frequently you will be able to purchase used copies that have never been really used at a much cheaper prices. They may also be available on line.

You should also bring with you a pad and pencils and a pen. You probably will be mostly if not entirely in freshman classes where many others will be also going to college for the first time.

Bring also your smile and enjoy the experience.

All I can advise is to smile, be friendly, nice but firm, and have a good attitude towards your study…you will see the sunshine even on rainy days…when you understand your purpose, you have better control on how you feel and your emotions.

It is perfectly normal for you to have all these emotions you mentioned. Mentally look at your goals of where you want to go and then say to yourself, this is the college where this is going to happen.

Have an early night and just prepare to meet the Day., with whatever it brings.

Get involved and just have fun!

anyway, be sure to take a full bath before going to school. t’s nice to start the day smelling fresh and clean…

as for the rest of the day, just go with the flow. trust your instincts. be confident and friendly… 😉