X Quick College Tips

Some college wisdom for soon-to-be freshman (I'll update this post constantly, feel free to send me suggestions).

• Failing a class will drop your GPA by about half a point. If you are in fear of failing a class, it is much better to drop it and retake it than to fail it and have to retake it.

  
  

  The deadline for dropping a class is usually the week of the midterm. If you feel you bombed, this is your last opportunity.

  
  

  Most professors will allow a previous edition of the textbook. Email him/her before the semester starts and ask.

  However, Amazon.com will always buy new textbooks for a generous price. Th difference in prices can equal renting or even buying used. Do the math first.

  
  

  There will be a club fair at the beginning of every semester. Commit yourself to one club per semester until you find the best one. Being president of one club is better than being a member of 10.

  
  

  Look at next semester's classes in advance. Most classes will be full by the time you can register. Stay updated on which classes are available.

  
  

  Your first semester is not the hardest. Every semester will be the hardest. You will have to take more advanced classes in addition to the required classes.

  
  

  Read the textbook ahead of time. At least the first chapter. Keep going until you don't understand what it is talking about.

  
  

  Professors will love you if you raise your hand. Every single professor hates the uncomfortable silences.