How to Take the Next Step From High School Senior to College Freshman

High school graduation is finally behind you and the transition from living at home to sharing a dorm room with a roommate is soon to be a reality.

And while it might seem like you have the entire summer to prepare, move-in day will sneak up on you faster than you think.

Here a few things to do this summer to help you take the next step from high school to becoming a college freshman in the fall:

Buy a Planner

Don’t rely on your technology to keep you focused. Research shows you retain more information when you write it down. So, the deadline for that big term paper is definitely one you’ll want to remember. And if colors inspire you, invest in a nice set of colorful pens or pencils. Pick out a color for each class and club and then, of course, one for personal appointments. You won’t want to forget your grandmother’s birthday or your parents’ anniversary—add those to the calendar as well. Being able to see your month at a glance with everything neatly organized and color-coded can bring peace of mind when your time is tight.

Update Your Social Media Profile Pictures

Now that you are onto the next phase of your journey remove any photos from your social media pages you don’t want your future professors, coaches or internship directors to see. While that selfie with the puppy filter might have been cute in high school, it may not be appropriate for your profile now that your priorities have begun to change. Remember, you are not only a representative of your school but of any student organizations or employers you may be associated with during your time as a student—it is important to put your best foot forward.

Write Your Thank You Notes in the Month of June

Handwrite your graduation thank you notes rather than send an informal text or email. Making an effort to acknowledge friends and family who remembered your graduation with a personalized note is the courteous thing to do. The support system you’ve built as a high school student may very well carry you through this new chapter of your life. Keep your connections close.

Get in the Habit of Making Your Bed

I recently had the pleasure of meeting UT Austin Chancellor, William H. McRaven, whose commencement speech from 2014 has gone viral. I have watched it several times and when I had the opportunity to speak with Chancellor McRaven, I told him I was a fan. The first thing he asked me was, “Do you make your bed every morning?” He believes if you take the time to make your bed at the beginning of the day, your first daily task is completed, encouraging you to achieve another and another. It truly does give you a lasting sense of encouragement as well as a place of solace after a long day of work.

Keep Your Abilities Strong– Avoid Summer Brain Loss

Don’t let the summer go by without using some of your hard-earned skills. You spent the last four years learning a foreign language, attempt to use it during the summer, even if it’s just practicing among friends. A recent study found when you stop using a specific skill during the break, you lose approximately two and a half months of learning. Find creative ways to use your brain as you enjoy your summer. Find an app or online game that you enjoy or tutor a kid in math or reading. Who knows, you might even make some decent money!

Get a Job

There will be plenty of social activities you will no doubt want to attend and your monthly allowance may not be enough to cover them all. Not to mention, college tuition is expensive and your family may be struggling to juggle multiple kids in school. Defer some costs and show responsibility by taking on a summer job and saving money for extras the following year. If you make a good impression, you may be able to come home over the holidays and work for additional holiday cash.

Update Your Technology

If your computer is worn out or needs to go in for repair, do it before you leave for school. The last thing you want to be worried about is replacing your technology when you are trying to get acclimated to your new college environment. Most universities have IT help onsite, but some problems need to be addressed before you get to school. Don’t forget to check into a good cell phone plan that allows you to communicate comfortably without paying high usage fees.

Take an Etiquette Class

This is not a shameless plug– social skills are imperative to success. Buy a book, find an organization on campus or even take a leadership class and develop your confidence while honing your social skills. From dates to business, you must always be open to learning new things.

Take a Look Around and Create a Contact List

Moving to a new town can be a little daunting, especially when you are on your own. Learn where to find the nearest pharmacy and medical clinic and add those phone numbers to your contact list or planner. You’ll also want to know where the nearest grocer, off-campus coffee shop and deli are located for all your non-emergency needs. If your college town has a main street or square, look for that too. Who knows, you just may discover a quiet place to go and study.

Visit the Doctor

Make appointments with your allergist, dermatologist or general practitioner before you leave. Save yourself the hassle by making sure you are up-to-date on your shots at the beginning of the summer rather than waiting until the last minute. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) offers a printable tracker to assist you.

You may also enjoy this recent Graduation Etiquette segment (via San Antonio Living).