by Aly Ellis

Created on: June 30, 2009   Last Updated: July 22, 2009

One's first semester in college is something that they ought to look forward to. Whether they are going to a smaller private college or a major state university, what exactly lies ahead is unknown. Sure there are several items that they can try to prepare for, such as classes and moving into dormitories, but not knowing what exactly they will face is what makes the first semester of college an important one.

Let's begin with a few things we can be certain about: classes, roommates, environment or surroundings, and freedom.

Classes and Books

By the time you move into your dorm or apartment, you most likely have already chosen your classes. If not, the most important piece of advice that is almost a no brainer is that you should definitely choose classes with varying topics. Even if you are set on your major, your first classes should be in all sorts of subjects. Most colleges require additional classes for your degree that are not courses for your major anyways. Doing this right away sets yourself up for meeting all sorts of new and different people with all kinds of different interests. Also, you may find that what you thought you wanted to major in is not the case, because another class you are taking suits you better or you enjoy it more. Either way, taking many different courses within the first semester can help you fulfill course requirements, discover new interests, and meet new friends.

Another thing to keep in mind while selecting your classes is to check on which professor you will be having. Many times, different professors teach different sections of the same course. Check out www.ratemyprofessor.com to read reviews on your potential professor. A lot of times it's not necessarily the course that is deal breaker; it's the professor!

If you have already chosen your classes, the next thing to do is to get ready for class. Much of the time you will already know what textbooks and materials you will need for your selected courses. Now, before you buy any books, one thing to think about is whether or not you want to wait until the first day of classes to see whether or not you actually need the books. A lot of times professors have the books on a list saying you need them, but then once the first day or week of classes come, they say that you do not need it. Some colleges do allow you to get a full refund of your books within so many days of purchasing them. That's the first thing to think about. Now, once you have decided that you

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