Becoming Independent: What To Prepare For Your First Year at College
Becoming Independent: What To Prepare For Your First Year at College
The transition from high school to college is a significant milestone in every young adult's life. It marks the beginning of newfound independence, where individuals embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. As you step into this new chapter, it's crucial to be prepared for the challenges and responsibilities that come with being on your own. From furnishing your living space to managing finances and acquiring essential life skills, this article will guide you through the preparations you need to make for your first year at college.
What to Prepare: Furniture
2-1. Kitchen
One of the first things to consider when moving into a new living space is setting up your kitchen. Having the right kitchen essentials can make a significant difference in your daily life.
Basic items like pots, pans, utensils, and dishes are essential for preparing your own meals. Consider investing in a microwave, toaster, and a small refrigerator to make your cooking and dining experience convenient.
The best thing I've ever bought is boiler pots from Amazon Basic.
2-2. Living Space
Creating a comfortable and functional living space is essential for your overall well-being.
Ideally if you have the robot vacuum like Roomba but it is too expensive. There are several items similar to Roomba so you can check them or just visit or to check them.
Think about essential furniture pieces such as a bed, desk, chair, and storage solutions. These items will not only provide you with the comfort you need but also help you stay organized in your studies.
2-3. Cars
If you plan to have a car on campus, ensure that it's in good working condition before you arrive. This will save you from potential transportation hassles during the academic year. Familiarize yourself with parking regulations and options available on campus.
2-4. Medication
Don't forget to pack any necessary medications you might need. Set up a basic first aid kit with essentials like bandages, pain relievers, and cold medication. If you have any chronic health conditions, ensure you have a plan in place to manage your health while away from home.
Here are some of things to be prepared.
2-4-1. Pain Relievers
cetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help alleviate minor aches, pains, and headaches.
2-4-2. Antihistamines
Over-the-counter antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) can provide relief from allergies, itching, and minor allergic reactions.
2-4-3. Cough and Cold Medications
Basic cough syrups, lozenges, or throat sprays can help soothe a sore throat and relieve cough symptoms.
2-4-5. Adhesive Bandages (Band-Aids)
Various sizes of adhesive bandages can cover minor cuts and scrapes.
2-4-6. Thermometer
A basic thermometer can be helpful to monitor your body temperature if you're feeling unwell.
2-4-7. Disposable Gloves
Gloves can be useful for handling any potential biohazard situations.
3. What to Prepare: Life
3-1. Regular Exercise
Exercise allows you to maintain healthy life and body. Keeping regular exercise is actually difficult skills, which will help you not only physically but also mentally as well.
3-2. Keep In Touch
Communication is very important for your mental health. You might feel scared or anxious for your life.
Just keep in touch with your parents, show your environment by using weCall, which allows you to show both front and back camera simultaneously.
3-3. Healthy Food
Healthy meals is an essential independent skill, the best thing I have done. It can help you not only save money but also keep your life healthier.
Just visit youtube and search what to cook and prepare, then go to grocery store. Don't forget to check the discount coupon before going there.
4. What to Prepare: Money
4-1. Plan for Long-Term Work
Balancing academics and work can be challenging, but having a plan for long-term work can provide you with financial stability.
Consider part-time job opportunities that align with your class schedule. Work-study programs offered by the college can be an excellent way to earn money while gaining valuable experience.
4-2. Tracking Money
Tracking your spending is important for you to maintain your life. You can do this in many ways like using a notebook or spreadsheet, or you can use ETMONEY or some other apps to track them.
This will reveal how you drink too much cokes! Understanding is the first step.
4-3. Build Skills for Work
Use your college years to develop skills that will benefit you in the job market. Consider internships, volunteer opportunities, or freelance work in your chosen field. Building a strong resume early on can open doors to better job prospects after graduation.
If you have time, you can learn programming, design, financial accounting, etc to make your life stable.
5. What to Prepare: Mindset
5-1. Self-Regulation Skills
With newfound freedom comes increased responsibility. Develop self-regulation skills to manage your time effectively, prioritize tasks, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. This skill set will not only contribute to your academic success but also your overall well-being.
5-2. Engage in activities you enjoy
Life is about enjoying the things you love. Whether it is hobbies, jobs, activities etc, you can find the things you enjoy the most.
5-3. Less Social Media
Using social media is being loneliness. Many of research reveal that using social media too much is leading to feel lonely, anxious, and depressive.
So cherish your friendship by weCalling rather than mindless scrolling. weCall allows you to make a video call more engaging fun, and you feel like experience together.