Gem and Jo's College Tips

So it's nearly that time again, back to college and we decided that since we are going into our final year we could give some of you college newbies a few tips on how to survive and make some friends!

It's never too late to go into third level education and whether you're 18 and just finished school or your 65 and ready to learn again, it's just as scary and daunting for everyone. We hope our tips will help you get through the college year without breaking down crying or being friendless and lonely.

1. Talk to people. Sounds easier than it is!

2.  Join a Society or Club. They have ones for absolutely everything. Pick one that strikes your interest and join. You'll meet loads of people!

3.  Take advantage of all the facilities on campus, academic and non academic! Fees are expensive enough, might as well get your money's worth! 

4. Do your own thing and be your own person. 

5. If you are a commuter, get a locker. It will save your life and your back. 

6.  Screen shot your timetable and send it to your friends. 

7. Enjoy yourself, but do the work. There's no point in paying a ton of money to come out the other end with a terrible degree, a little work goes a long way. "Due Tomorrow, Do Tomorrow" should not be your philosophy!

Remember, the person sitting beside you on that first day probably doesn't know anyone either, all it takes is one little hello!
Good Luck and we hope you enjoy college as much as we have!

Gem and Jo's College Essentials

As college veterans, we are here to help you put aside your college newbie worries and guide you through your first few weeks of getting your degree. Here is our video on what you are going to need when the time to start college comes around.

1.  Get yourself a diary or a date book for your first day where you can keep track of important dates.

2. A notebook and Pen is essential for your first day as you'll be given a load of information that should be written down. 

3. Get a map of campus and keep it! You may need it at exam time or even in the next few years of college.
4. Bring a plastic folder to keep all the important documents you'll receive on your first day in. (Keep everything you're given during those first days, they'll likely be important and needed at some point in the future!)
5. Have a memory key on you at all times for printing assignments and saving in class work.
6. Wait a while before buying text books for lectures to make sure that they will actually be used.
7. Get a good water bottle. Most colleges have drinking water taps on campus so you can fill up your water bottle and not have to spend a load on bottled water. 
8. Get a small lunch box that you can put snacks in. You won't always have time to run back to your dorm or to the cafeteria every time you're hungry. This will save you from disturbing a lecture with a loud rumbling stomach (we've been there. Not a lot of fun!). 

Stay tuned for our next video which is all about how to mentally survive those first few, terrifying days and has some handy general tips that may be helpful too!