Simple College Survival Guide

Essay by Ghazi Alfadhli

Going to a new place is hard. People start searching and reading about the place they are going to, but it is hard to find something simple and easy. Today I will try to help you in a simple way.

First, book your tickets at least a month earlier than your orientation and book a ride that will take you to your destination. I don't recommend you to sign a lease for an apartment. Instead, book a hotel for a few days and make sure they have transportation services. Then, when you reach there, remember, (keep your passport in a safe place). Then start searching for an apartment. That way you will get cheaper and a better deal.

Then, get a phone number. Getting a phone number is tricky, so I recommend you to go to T-MOBILE and get a prepaid program. They have good deals, like you pay $50 a month and you will get unlimited calls, texts and data. Getting a phone number is very important. You will have to use it in everything you will go through.

Once you get your phone number, start looking for an apartment. So look for an agent, some do it for free and some ask for money. If you have a family there, then dont worry, but if you don't, you should contact an agent to help you. Once you contact them, set up a date to look at the apartments. Choose an apartment according to your budget and style. Once you do that, sign your lease, but make sure the bus stop is close to your apartment or you will suffer.

Once you move into your new apartment. try to settle in. If you have a roommate, don't rely on him helping you. Help yourself. If you don't have a roommate, try to socialize. Once you settle in, get snacks and drinks to survive. Now you need to know the city.

Knowing the city and the campus is very important and it will ease your movement once you start your semester. So try to find if the bus has an application or at least get familiar with their timings and routes. Then get on the bus and get to know the city. Go to places, interact with people and get informations from locals.

Once you are settled and became an expert in your city, get a debit card. Try to look for banks who give special offers to college students. Open an account and get your debit card. Then go get your groceries and all your needs.

Finally, you are settled. But remember, don't rely on anyone, help yourself, don't get into dark places, do your assignments on time, try to stay healthy and if you feel anything, go to the health center on campus immediately, keep a folder for your important papers, memorise your phone number, keep a good relation and respect your instructors, and again, keep your passport safe. And, be safe. I wish you a happy semester.