The following article from our colleague and college financial advisor Donna Cournoyer is addressed to graduating high school seniors.
Your upcoming graduation from high school is a big deal- a REALLY big deal. Congratulations!
Now is the time when one chapter closes as you prepare for another. While it’s quite exhilarating, it can be a bit overwhelming, too. Don’t worry – you are not alone. Your future college classmates are also preparing for the transition this coming fall.
Here’s how you can get ready for college, with a few helpful tips from students who’ve been where you are:
Embrace Your Independence
College is a big step toward becoming your own person. You’ll be managing your own time, choices, and responsibilities – everything from planning your meals, your schedules, and of course your classes.
“Learning to do laundry before I moved in saved me from a lot of headaches—and colorful T-shirts,” says Emma, a sophomore at the University of Vermont. “College felt less overwhelming once I stopped waiting for someone to tell me what to do and started figuring things out for myself.”
Start with something practical this summer, like creating a budget, and managing any money you make by working a part-time job. Save what you can for spending money this fall.
Keep Your Study Habits Sharp
In college, it is likely that your classes will be moving faster and be more in-depth than high school. It is helpful to find what study methods help you most, such as group sessions, flash cards, or digital tools.
“In college, no one checks if you’ve done the reading. You’re expected to show up ready to talk about it,” says Jordan, a first-year student at a liberal arts college. “Learning how to study smarter—not longer—was a game changer.”
Start Making Connections
Start now. Don’t wait for move-in day to meet people. This helps take some of the fear of the unknown out of the equation, if you make a few new friends before you meet in fall.
Join the social media groups your school has set up for incoming freshmen. Message your roommate, attend the virtual meetings to meet some of your classmates.
“A girl I met on the college Discord server ended up being one of my best friends. We bonded over our love for Taylor Swift before classes even started,” says Aisha, a freshman at a state university.
Get Practical
From having health insurance cards to dorm shopping, there are a lot of logistics to tackle before move-in day. Make a list (or more), and don’t be afraid to ask older students what they wish they had packed- or left at home!
“I brought too many clothes and not enough extension cords,” laughs Max, a junior.
Also, know how to access your student portal and make sure your paperwork, such as immunization records, financial aid, and payment plans are squared away.
It helps to see some familiar faces when you step on campus.
Prioritize Your Well-Being
College life can be amazing, but also stressful. Make your mental health a priority. Get familiar with campus resources like counseling centers, academic support centers, student activities centers. Even wellness apps can help.
“I didn’t expect to feel homesick, but I did,” shares Leah, a second-year student. “Talking to someone—even a campus peer counselor—helped a lot.”
Remember, you are growing, you don’t need to have everything figured out! That is what college is for.
Final Thoughts
Summer this year is more than a break: it is really a launching pad. Take time to rest, plan, and dream. You are heading into one of the most impactful periods of your life. Full of life-changing experiences, discoveries and connections that will last your lifetime.
You, the Class of 2025, have already made it through a lot! Now is your time. Go out, learn, connect and experience the world around you.
“College will help you realize who YOU are. Your life will begin to take shape, and the meaning of your life will start to emerge.” -Donna
-DC