5 Things I wish I knew before going to college:

Finishing college wasn't always something I wanted to do. Through most of high school, I didn't care much for school. I was more focused on socializing. However, in my senior year I got inspired in my government class to do something more with my life. College isn't always necessary but in the field I want to work in, a bachelor's degree is required. Since it was too late to apply out of high school, I went to community college with plans to transfer. Now that I am applying to universities and reflecting on my academic history, I am realizing a few things I could have done better to make the journey faster or at least increase my confidence in getting into another school.

Whether you are transferring from a community college, you're in high school, or just thinking college as your path, here are some tips based on my own college experience and some things to consider. Good Luck!!!

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1) ESTABLISH A RELATIONSHIP WITH YOUR PROFESSORS

When it comes time to apply, some colleges will require or recommend you submit an academic letter of recommendation. It's little boosts like this that will make you stand out against other applicants. Before asking your professors for these letters, you need to be confident they know who you are. Its super easy to do especially if you have already picked out your major. Take a couple classes from them, participate in class, and go to their office hours if you have any questions about a quiz, test, or essay. This will show them you are making an effort and when time comes for you to ask for a letter, they will be happy to do it.

2) GET YOUR GENERAL EDUCATION CLASSES OUT OF THE WAY

In California, colleges will require that you at least have your math and English portions of your GE classes done before you apply. I'm not sure how it is in another states, but I imagine it is the same if not similar. I personally put off math for a while and just took the classes that I thought were more interesting. Therefore, this next semester I absolutely have to get my math done or else my acceptance will be revoked, which would not be a good feeling. And math classes fill up FAST. So I recommend you get started on these kinds of classes early, even mix it up a bit with electives so the semester isn't too stressful. Just make sure it gets done so you don't have to worry about it in the future.

3) MAKE A FRIEND IN CLASS

If you are absent because you are on vacation, or miss class for whatever reason, it is nice to have someone to text and have them send you the notes. Typically in college, every class will have a lecture that is important for essays or tests. So try not to miss anything!

4) TRY TO GET TO CLASS A LITTLE EARLY

Mainly for parking. Typically, people have classes around the same time and when that time approaches, the parking lot fills up quick. No joke. I have been late to class sometimes not because I didn't get to campus on time, but because I couldn't find a spot. Also, as a bonus, it is nice to be able to take your time, grab a snack, set up your notes, etc. And if you're early to class, professors will see you make an effort. Refer to tip #1 ;)

5) MEET WITH A COUNSELOR

It is important to make sure you are taking the right classes at the right time to ensure you will finish your schooling in a timely manner. Personally, I took double the amount of humanities classes because I was not informed that certain classes fill you general ed. requirements AND your major requirements. But that is no one's fault but my own. In college, you are responsible for every step. So take that extra hour a semester to meet with a counselor and plan your next steps.

All of these things are super easy to do and will really ensure that you will get to where you want to go!!