10 Ways to Prepare for Your First Year of College

Summer is in full swing and, for many college-going students, the move to campus is only two months away. Whether you’re busy enjoying your summer or counting down the days to move into your dorm, here are ten things you can do to prepare for the transition ahead.

1. Research possible majors and minors.
Even if you’re confident about what you want to study, take time to explore the full list of majors and minors at your school. Which ones spark your curiosity and why? Are there any pathways you hadn’t considered before that look exciting to you now? What courses are required to complete them, and what opportunities do you have to take electives in other fields? Sketch out a few pathways. Which feels most like you? Which could open up possibilities for careers and graduate schools?

2. Get to know your professors.
Once you have a few fields of interest in mind, browse the faculty pages for those departments. What are your future professors researching and teaching? Who would you love to learn from? Familiarity with faculty now can make it easier to introduce yourself when the semester begins — and to start building the kinds of relationships that will enrich your college experience.

3. Explore clubs and campus organizations.
Getting involved is one of the best ways to build friendships, grow, and find your place in a new community. Review your college’s student organizations online. Which ones align with your interests, goals, or identity? Are there new things you’d like to try, or new skills you’d like to master?

4. Look into jobs on campus and in town.
Complementing your studies with a part-time job can be a great way to build skills and get comfortable managing your finances. Check out openings in the library, dining halls, or admissions office, and ask current students what kinds of jobs are available. You might also want to explore part-time jobs in the surrounding town or internships that fit your interests.

5. Familiarize yourself with support resources.
College can be exhilarating, but it can also get overwhelming: for many students, college is the first time living away from home. Learn about your school’s counseling center, health clinic, accessibility office, writing center, and tutoring programs. Think about which resources might be helpful to you when you get to campus. Knowing where to go for help before you need it will help you feel more prepared.

6. Study the campus map.
Explore the layout of your new campus — where your dorm is, how to get to your classes, and where the dining halls and libraries are. This small step can help you feel more oriented when you arrive and ease first-week jitters.

7. Learn about your dorm and what to bring.
Once you receive your room assignment, find out what’s included and what you might need to bring to feel at home. Are there community bathrooms? Shared kitchens? Start making a list of essentials that reflect your comfort and your personality.

8. Set expectations for staying in touch with family.
Heading off to college is a big transition for both you and your family. Before you leave, talk openly about how often you’d like to stay in touch and how — whether by text, phone, or video call (or hand-written letters!) Setting these expectations now can prevent misunderstandings later and help your family adjust alongside you.

9. Have honest conversations about money.
However you and your family are financing tuition, room, and board, money plays an important role in college life. Talk with your family or support system about how you'll handle expenses like books, meals off campus, travel, or emergencies. If you’re managing your own budget, create a simple spending plan before the semester starts.

10. Spend time with the people you love.
The weeks before college are often a blur of shopping, packing, and saying goodbye to friends and family. Try to be intentional about spending time with your loved ones. Take photos, cook your favorite meals, have meaningful conversations, and enjoy any routines that have given your childhood structure and meaning. These moments matter, and remembering them — or even finding small ways to practice them on campus — can make the transition feel less daunting and abrupt.