Advice for soon-to-graduate seniors on surviving college

For high school seniors everywhere, these are pretty heady times. Graduation. Freedom. One last magnificent summer.

But all too soon it will be college, studying, term papers, exams, studying, stressing, finals, studying, stressing.

Relax.

Higher ed doesn't have to be a headache if you take some advice from some people who have been there -- where you are and where you're going.

For those soon-to-be freshmen, here's a college survival guide from three Southeast Missouri State University freshmen finishing up their first year.

Mark Stevens, 18, finance major

For Stevens, college, so far, has been a lot easier than high school. There's a lot more time. "It just depends on how you manage your time," he said.

Be organized: Always do your homework on time. Be prepared for class. Don't skip. Ever: That's pretty crucial. Or you'll get behind and it will be hard to catch back up.

Be responsible: Go easy on the drinking. You have a lot more freedom. That teaches you how to be a responsible adult, depending on what kind of person you are.

Garret Welker, 19, acting/directing major, minor in dance

Welker's advice is what college is all about, aside from the academics. Meet new people, try new things, find yourself.

Get involved: You meet some of the coolest people just by going to places and things.

Don't procrastinate: That's one of my biggest downfalls. Try your best, it's really all you can do.

Find you: Don't go along with what someone of a higher authority says. Like, if you go into a major you don't like, you're not going to like it, and it's going to make your life miserable.

Mariah Smith, 19, nursing major

For Smith, college is about taking on more responsibilities of adulthood. And learning how to balance them.

Don't stress: It's really not that bad, and Southeast has excellent teachers who really care about their students.

Don't be late: Sign up early to get your dorm and a good roommate. I signed up last spring and I had my roommate in June. As for signing up for classes, the more credits you have the earlier you can sign up. It kind of stinks because freshmen have to sign up later on than sophomores, juniors and seniors. Make sure you're right on time that day.

Don't forget: I took for granted how much stuff my parents did for me in high school. Now I'm completely on my own. I have to take responsibility, knowing when my appointments are, and how to balance going out and school work.

mkittle@semissourian.com

388-3627