Glow-Getter’s DeClassified School Survival Guide! 

It's the first week of classes and it can be frightening starting a new school year. Are you ready? Cause I don’t know if I am. No matter how many times I double-check my classes and assignments I can’t help but feel overwhelmed. Here’s some tips to help you navigate the first week of school.  

(Your results may vary).

Tip #1 Avoid overpacking.

Whether you're dorming it or commuting, you don’t want to overpack. We know it’s exciting moving to a dorm, but try avoiding packing your whole life to take with you to your dorm. There might not be enough space to fit that mini fridge AND coffee machine. Check out the space before purchasing something. Meet your roommate! They might already plan on taking a coffee machine so you don’t have to. Pack only the essentials like your laptop, bedding, clothes annnnd your Alpha Glow Serum!

And for public transportation commuters, try traveling light. I know it’s obvious BUT all those little ‘just in case’ items can be added up. Try to prioritize which ones need to be kept and which ones to retire. Check to see if your school library has your textbooks available on Kindle too! It can save you A LOT of space and save you from that helpless turtle look.

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Tip #2 Plan ahead

Try planning ahead. Think of trying a new haircut or a *aesthetic*? Get a few weeks ahead of school. It gives it time to grow out! Trying to find a hairdresser at the last minute can lead to bad haircuts and bad first impressions. And just because we start classes in the fall doesn’t mean it is the fall season. Check the weather on your campus. The worst thing is showing up sweaty to your first class! T__T. Already have friends from last year or orientation? Check if you can get a class together! Having a built in study buddy for the semester can help motivate you. For commuters, check where your class is on the schools map or have it queued up on your phone. It’ll come in handy when you're looking for parking or if you get lost. 

Tip #3: Try something new

Remember, you're in college to grow not just your mind but your view on life! Don’t be afraid to experience new things while at school. Check out some sororities or fraternities, they’re a great place to meet new people even if you decide not to join. Not into Greek life? Try clubs or make your own! Don’t be afraid to get out there, you’ll never know what you like until you try it! 

If you’re new to the area, check out what’s around you. What’s your vibe? Coffee shops, bars, libraries? Whatever it is, look around it helps you learn your surroundings and feel more comfortable in a new city. 

And Tip #4: Be ready for anything

It’s the first week of classes, ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN. So don’t panic. Everyone is trying to make it past the first week, ask for help if you need it. Check our your guidance counselor or RA for advice. Or there are plenty of school resources to help. 

There you have it, the glow getter’s declassified school survival guide (your results may vary).

Good luck this semester!