Are you starting college this year? This is an exciting time, but it does present some new challenges. Not worry, we have some great tips to help getting started. If you are coming directly from high school, you will notice that there is much less structure, greater responsibility, and more freedom. Sounds great, right? Well, yes, it can be. However, this means that you need to step up and take charge. If you are headed to college from the workforce or other circumstances, you have your own unique challenges.

In both cases, you need to be intentional about how you choose to navigate your experience. Your actions determine how impactful it will be. This is an amazing journey in terms of self-discovery and growth, but it can be an adjustment. Here are some great guidelines to help you prepare for this semester.

Helpful Guidelines for College Students

1. Prepare. Think about what you want to achieve and make goals. Take some time to brush up on your communication, time management, and technical skills. Do some research.
2. Make health a priority. Really? This is a tip for college students? Yes, getting sick or burnt out can put you on the sidelines. There is a lot going on, your body and mind need to be strong to help you be successful. Remember to get enough sleep. Find healthy ways to manage your stress. Drink enough water, eat a healthy diet, and exercise. Watch your caffeine intake. Make good choices!
3. Safety first! Take the time to get to know your campus. Know where emergency telephones and public safety are. Be aware of transportation schedules, secure your things, protect your privacy, and be aware of your surroundings. Use your common sense and trust your gut. Read these safety tips.
4. Manage your money. Figure out how much money you have available and tally up your expected expenses to create a budget. Be vigilant about credit card debt. It’s so easy to spend more than your budget. How you spend money now can set the tone for your financial future, do not let yourself get into unnecessary debt. Save money with student discounts (see below for details). More financial tips.
5. Use the resources available to you. Take time to identify all the resources that are available to you for free. These resources can make your college experience easier and more productive. Schools often offer free tutoring, academic advisors, career resource departments, crisis centers, and more. Be aware of the services and take advantage of them as needed.
6. Put your best foot forward. Start your college career by making a good impression. Attend orientation. Go to your classes. Get to know your classmates. Meet your professors. Visit office hours. Get involved on campus with clubs, sports, or volunteering. Actively participating in your college experience allows you to get the most out of it.

Save Money with your Student ID

Your expenses for starting college can really add up. It’s important to know that many of the software, robotics, hardware, and electronics products you need for your school are available with student discounts. You can generally qualify for special education pricing using your valid student identification. This can save you up to a whopping 90% off retail prices. Studica offers a wide variety of these products to students and teachers.  Shop Back-to-School deals!

Why are they giving students such a big discount? Many software and electronics companies want students to know how to use their products. This makes it easier for companies using their products to find and hire qualified candidates. Build up your resume and your skill set using industry standard software such as Toon Boom Animation, National Instruments, Babbel Language Learning, Avid, Final Draft, Chaos Group (the makers of V-Ray), IBM SPSS, Pixologic ZBrush, and SOLIDWORKS. Save on pen and digital drawing tablets from Wacom and Artisul. Well-known companies such as 3DConnexion and Pantone also offer student discounts. Student discounts are available in many places and can save you a lot over the course of your education.

Keep your student ID handy and don’t be afraid to ask “Do you offer student discounts?”. Many coffee shops, clothing stores, restaurants, theatres, and other businesses happily offer student discounts.  For those software and hardware needs, sign up for Studica’s monthly email for exclusive coupon codes, deals and more. (Currently, only available in the USA and Canada.)