For The Storm King School’s Class of 2021, the start of their first year of college is right around the corner. To help our recent graduates stay on track, keep abreast of all the details, and be prepared before setting foot on campus this fall, the Office of College Counseling has put together some helpful tips from well-known colleges and universities across the country.

Check your college e-mail daily

E-mail is still the most common form of communication at most colleges and universities. Students should get in the habit of checking their new college e-mail accounts on a regular basis so they don’t miss important updates, deadlines, and details.

Know your college’s latest COVID-19 protocols

The coronavirus pandemic shaped the 2020-2021 academic year in ways no one could have predicted. Colleges pivoted to remote instruction, required testing, masking, social distancing, and other health protocols to keep their campus communities safe. While increasing numbers of COVID-19 vaccines have allowed some restrictions to be lifted, things still won’t be as they were pre-pandemic. Many colleges are now requiring students to be vaccinated before returning to campus or to live in campus residence halls.  As the situation remains fluid and varies from region to region, students should be sure to check their college’s website for updates and reach out to residence life or admissions for guidance to know what to expect.

Take part in as many welcome and orientation activities as possible

Most colleges and universities reach out well ahead of time with information on virtual or in-person orientation events. These activities are a great way for new students and families to learn more about academics, student activities and athletics, and other campus resources and support services. They also help incoming freshmen make valuable connections with fellow students, faculty, and staff. In some cases, orientation is also the time to meet with an academic advisor and register for classes. Often, registration for orientation activities is required, so students should check their e-mail for details.

 

Prepare for move-in ahead of time 

College move-in day is a memorable day. To make sure those memories are happy ones, students should be sure to follow the instructions provided by their college or residence hall regarding move-in rules and procedures, especially in the wake of the pandemic. Students should use the checklists provided and do their shopping early.  On the day, emotions will be running high and space may be running low. Water, patience, and a sense of humor will go a long way toward making move-in day go smoothly.

Read the college’s student handbook and residence hall agreement

Campus communities have rules and regulations governing student conduct on campus.  It is every student’s responsibility to know what is expected of them on campus and in the residence halls.  Everyone should take time during the summer to familiarize themselves with these expectations. Not knowing is usually not an acceptable excuse!  Every college has an Office of Student Conduct that provides guidance surrounding campus rules and regulations. Students should check in with their questions or concerns.

Become an expert at Time Management

At college, how students spend their time is their choice. This prospect is exciting, but it can also be hard to adjust to. Another common fear when starting college is having to choose between social activities and doing well in class. The key to success is developing good time management skills. By creating a weekly schedule that factors in the right study habits (completion of daily assignments, notetaking, and regular review), along with time for social activities, self-care, and domestic chores, it is possible to get top grades while still having a great college experience. When it comes to academic success, don’t procrastinate!  It is best is to get everything done in small increments. A major assignment completed in chunks over several weeks is much easier than cramming the whole task in the last few days before the due date.

Most importantly, recent graduates should remember that finishing high school and being admitted to college are both outstanding achievements. Everyone should reward their hard work by taking some time to relax this summer before jumping into their new life at college. A trip to the beach, relaxing at home, and spending extra time with friends and loved ones will go a long way toward starting the fall semester on a positive note and having a great experience.