Official offers advice to incoming college freshmen

College freshmen preparing to enter a new and different world this fall may be wondering what to expect as they head into their first year of higher education.

Fort Scott Community College Director of Advising Steve Kramer, a nationally certified counselor, has provided a list of 10 things that all incoming freshmen should know before they begin the school year.

To help make the student's first year go smoother, FSCC offers a freshman orientation class that helps students get adjusted and provides tutors for those who need help with classes. The college also requires all freshmen to meet with advisors prior to choosing classes. During those meetings, advisors talk to students about freshmen classes and the student's two-year plan, Kramer said.

"They talk about what they need in order to graduate," he said. "They can look at that (plan) each semester. We also go over all the important dates for the semester. We try to help them when we first see them."

Kramer said many first-year students have misconceptions concerning college life.

"A lot of times, students come in and think freedom means they can do anything they want, and they're not responsible for anything ... that they can just party and no consequences. They find out pretty quickly that if they do something they need to be responsible for what they do."

Kramer said it is important that freshmen have all the textbooks they need by the first day of classes. Reading quickly through a book beforehand can prepare students for the material in the course.

Students should also make sure they have a notebook for each course so notes can be kept separate. Youngsters should also have plenty of pens and No. 2 pencils and may want to pick up a copy of the writer's handbook because it will explain how to write college-level papers required for most classes, he said.

Kramer said students should not bring excessive amounts of money to college and should instead keep their money safe in a bank. They should also not bring alcohol, drugs or weapons -- most schools have banned these from campus.

The following is the list prepared by Kramer designed to help freshmen have a successful year:

*Students must take responsibility for their own academic futures. They need to look at the requirements for their degree and pick their own classes and not let their parents do it for them, "because they are not going to be there waking you up to go to class, or holding your hand," he said.

* Students must take responsibility for their own actions. Students take responsibility for any crimes they might commit, cheating on an exam, or spending all their money in one night. "You will pay the consequences for your actions. Be wise and manage your money," Kramer said in his list.

* Go to class and be prepared. Just being in every class will increase a student's chance of success. Students should read the chapter they are going through in that class before they get there. Take notes on the lecture in class and be on time every time because some instructors will count students absent for being late.

* Sit in the "T" section. Students should sit in the front row or middle of the classroom to ensure they absorb the most information.

* Always ask questions. As students ask questions, they learn things.

The more questions students ask in the classroom, the better chance they have of knowing the material and being fully engaged. Students should not hesitate to ask for help if they need it.

* Parties, drinking, drugs and good grades don't mix. If students want to do well in school, they should take it seriously. Students need to be sober to be able to study and do homework. Students must also get enough sleep for their minds to function correctly.

* Get things in writing. This is a good lesson for students to learn early in their college careers and life. Don't always believe everything everyone says to you unless you have it in writing. This ensures that you and the person you are making the agreement with are both on the same page. Students should make sure they know what is in that College Catalog and Student Handbook because they are responsible for what it says in writing.

* Students should watch what they eat and take care of personal hygiene. Students living in the dorms have to share a small room with another person. Also, students should be considerate of one another and follow the golden rule. Students are responsible for their own diets and are advised to make responsible and healthy food choices.

* Students need to make sure they keep track of their money and valuables. Lock up those things you want to keep safe and don't leave money out. Also make sure and lock your car.

* Take advantage of all the free services offered for students. Big institutions have hefty student fee costs that pay for free services for you. If students don't use them, they don't get a refund. Local community colleges have smaller student fee costs that help pay for services as well. Youngsters should join a club, use the free services, use the student union and make lifelong friends while in college.