Home

Daily Advisor Archive

Be a slacker

Calculate your class average before studying for a major exam. That way, you’ll know just how much effort you need to exert to achieve the overall GPA you want.

Read the syllabus. …

Especially the part where profs break down your grade. Knowing that attendance equals 20 percent may motivate you to actually make it to class. Final exam worth 40 percent? Better crack down for that test.

Picture this. …

Imagine exactly what you’d like to be doing after college. Predicting what skills you’ll need on the job will motivate you to retain relevant info in class.

Mark your territory

Whether you’re bunking up with a total stranger or your BFF, make a list of rules with your roomie at the get-go to avoid huge blowouts later.

Deck out your dorm

Low on lighting? Snoop around the parentals’ crib for white -- or colorful, if you’re wild -- lights that lend your room some funky flair and take up zilch space.

Shop ’n’ save

From movie theaters to stores like J.Crew, companies offer student discounts. Keep your ID card in your back pocket -- you never know when you’ll save some cash.

Pad your resume

Just like college admission officers, employers like well-rounded new hires. Being a fellow member on Greek row doesn't hurt, but be sure to sign up for a variety of extracurrix.

We be clubbin’

Odd one out in HS? College has loads more students. Meaning, more peeps that dig ultimate flying disc too. If your college’s club roster’s lacking, take the lead and start a group of your choice.

Jock star

You were an all-star athlete in the kiddie pool but can't even bench in college? Brush it off. Try an intramural team to find students equally equipped with athletic prowess.

Fully charged

Laptop, cell phone, iPod ... you've got gadgets and gizmos aplenty. Charging up with two dinky outlets will leave you in the dark (and annoyed). Plug in a power strip to juice up.

Late-night munchies

Stock your place with snacks. After all-night cram sessions (or looong nights out), you’ll be thankful for treats at your fingertips that you can chow down before bedtime.

Walk it out

Time your commute between classes before the first day. Realizing you've left 10 minutes to book it 2 miles across campus will make you late, sweaty and pissed you didn't bring your bike.

Open for bash-ness

Leave your dorm room door open to mingle with new faces and be in-the-know about nightly festivities and shenanigans. Plus, it says you’re friendly and inviting.

Hi, my name is …

Lectures are rolling 300 deep, and you're not in Kansas anymore. Hit up your instructor during office hours to be remembered when you're walking the thin line between B+ and A-.

Just say no to debt

Campuses are sprawling with creditors offering free stuff for signing up. Even if your T-shirt is kinda ratty, RUN away. If you have the card, you're gonna use it.

Check Out
The Real College Guide:

Ask the R.A.

Q. I really want to get a summer job. Do I need to be thinking about that so soon?

FROM OUR SPONSOR