Getting the hang of it....

It's been one month since Ram Welcome, and time is just flying. I'm finally getting used to everything and managing my time. I've met some awesome people, and made some great friends. I've learned to balance work and fun, and I can't wait to see what else college has in store for me! Thanks for all your help!

Sincerely,
Havingfun



Dear Havingfun,
I'm glad you're having fun, and I'm glad I could help! Keep up the good work! If you have any more questions, you know where to ask!

Best,
Jolique

Exams

My first college exam is on Monday, and everyone is freaking out. I'm not, tests can't be that different from high school. Plus, I used to just cram and I'd get A's, I'll just do the same thing here. 

Sincerely,
Notworried

Dear Notworried,
Sorry to burst your bubble, but that doesn't fly around here. College exams are definitely not the same as high school, so you have to prepare differently! There's only about four tests per class, so you can't afford to throw one away! The majority of classes don't have extra assignments to help your grade -- it's purely based on those tests. And on that note, DON'T CRAM. Plan out your studying and make sure you thoroughly understand the material rather than just trying to memorize it. College exams are harder, but with the right preparation, you can do just as well as you did in high school.

Best,
Jolique

First Day of Class

I found all my classes yesterday, but after going to a few classes I realized that this is a lot different than high school. Do you have any advice for how to transition smoothly?

Sincerely,
Usedtohighschool



Dear Usedtohighschool,
Because the majority of your classes are lectures, make sure you know how to take good notes. Write down what is on powerpoint slides, the whiteboard, and things your professor emphasizes. Make sure to keep yourself organized -- buy a planner, write down assignment due-dates in a place you'll see, these small adjustments will help you succeed!

Best,
Jolique

I'm lost!

This campus is HUGE! How am I supposed to find my classes??

Sincerely,
Solost




Dear Solost,
Try to remember what you can from orientation, but the best way to find your way around is to get out there and explore. You can get a group of friends together and help each other find your classes. I understand that no one wants to be the freshman walking around campus with a map! Relax, you'll be okay.

Best,
Jolique

Dorms!

Ram Welcome was so much fun! I met so many cool people! I'm sitting in my room with my roommate, but I still want to meet more people. What should I do?

Sincerely,
Eagertohavefun!





Dear Eagertohavefun,
I'm so glad you had fun at Ram Welcome! Something I found helpful for meeting new people in my dorm was to keep my door open. It encourages other people to stop by and say hi! And if you're bored in your room, walk down your hall, and introduce yourself to your new neighbors! That'll give you the opportunity to get to know them, and maybe they can introduce you to even more people!
Also, when you have time, make sure to talk to your roommate and establish ground rules and understand each other's lifestyles -- remember, not everyone is the same.

Best,
Jolique

Meeting People

Ram Welcome is today, I'm all moved in, but I don't know anyone! What should I do?

Sincerely,
Leftout

Dear Leftout,

Keep in mind that everyone there is looking for friends, too. Don't feel overwhelmed! Introduce yourself to everyone, and DON'T FORGET THEIR NAMES! You'll be meeting a lot of people, and it'll be hard to keep track of everyone. Exchange phone numbers -- that definitely helps you to remember their names! Don't worry, and just have fun!

Best,
Jolique

Getting ready!

Leaving tomorrow, and I haven't even started packing yet! What should I pack??

Sincerely,
Procrastinatingalready



Dear Procrastinatingalready,
I remember when I was packing for college and I felt like I had to bring my whole life with me. I definitely wouldn't recommend that! There is way too much, and you don't need everything. Bring the essentials, and you'll be fine.
P.S. You're going into college... no more procrastinating!!

Best,
Jolique