How to be College Savvy

These are some things to be familiar with as you leave home for college:

How to self-advocate - It is very important to start taking the lead and speak up for yourself and what you need in order to be successful at college. This will give you a great deal of self-confidence too.

How to set up appointments such as at the dentist or doctor - Start taking responsibility for making phone calls while you are still at home.

How to do laundry - Your mom will be very happy that you want to learn this new skill. It will come in handy at college when you have to do your own laundry.

Cooking and doing groceries - There is no one telling you to eat your vegetables or decide what you eat every night. Now it's your turn to go to the grocery and select food to make dinner for yourself. Learn a few basic things before you leave for college or you end up eating ramen noodles for four years.

Basic First Aid - Learn how to take care of yourself if you get sick. Also, in case of minor burns or the common cold, it is good to know how to treat yourself. Be on the lookout for fever above 103 which does not come down with medicine. This is not a good sign and you should call a doctor to be treated professionally.

Last but not least personal safety is very important at college. Make sure you are aware of your surroundings and if you are out late, have friends with you. It is safer to move in groups than by yourself.