We had a wonderful time walking down memory lane, recounting our college days, and pinning fun, funky decor onto our Dorm Room board on Pinterest. Hopefully, these accessories will inspire your new living quarters. (It’s all about adding color!)
With the release of our Bed and Bath items on the horizon (Thursday, June 28), we just couldn’t resist a little giveaway! We want you to “throw” out a piece of advice for this fall’s crop of incoming college freshmen. What tip do you think will best help these ladies navigate their first semester on campus?
Comment below with your suggestion and we’ll select five lucky readers to receive a free Throw Blanket, a super-soft Fall favorite.
This giveaway is now closed. Thank you for commenting, and congratulations to Logan H., Shelby A., Jinna W., Shawney S. and Izzy!
Inside Stitch: The Official Vera Bradley Blog 
Make sure you get enough rest as College life is hectic and fun at the same time!
Try to remember why you are there… it is all so exciting those first few weeks. Remain true to your own values. I was dorm secretary for many years.. that reversible throw is what you need most. Many mornings a young freshman would be in my office wrapped up in a blanket just to say hi… The memories are wonderful and I loved every moment with those kids.. so make friends with “your” dorm sec. she is there because she loves you guys. Each and every one. She may turn out to be your best source of information.
I just finished my freshman year at college, and I would say try to put yourself out there and get involved in different organizations and meet new people! The friends you make in the first year will be your friends throughout the rest of your college experience and beyond, so never stop yourself from an opportunity to meet new people.
Good advice!
Go to class! That’s my biggest regret from college, not going to class. If I could go back in time I would be the first one there & the lady one to leave!
Never schedule classes on Friday!
Wash your dirty clothes weekly!
I love the reversible blanket. I cannot wait until Thursday to see the whole collection. Va Va Bloom looks like it will become my new favorite!!!
Get involved with a few different groups or activities that interest you, it is a great way to meet people and have fun!
Don’t procrastinate. It may seem like you have a lot of time, but it’s amazing how quickly things can slip away from you. Stay focused and try not to stray to far away from your goal. However, do take time to make new friends and enjoy finally being on your own. These days should be looked back on as fond memories and learning experiences. Your best days are still to come.
We would love a new blanket!!!
Enjoy college !
I forgot my advice…sorry but here goes anyway…I got some really good advice my freshman year that I still live by in my graduate career and it is to talk to everyone in the class. Don’t be shy and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Everyone is on the same road and you would be surprised where help will come from. Try to organize a study group and be nice to everyone. It is easier to be nice than nasty!
Always have a planner so you can stay organized with your classwork, clubs, events and fun things to do with friends! Make sure you get involved early and often on your campus-those four years go by fast!
My advice, stay away from 8 AM classes.
Don’t stay out TOO late! 🙂
Take advantage of all the activities on campus as well as getting involved with activities, clubs and organizations.
work hard but so enjoy the experience as much as possible!
When I was a freshman at Ohio State, waaaay back in 1990, I distinctly remember one afternoon in between classes. I was sitting outside, listening to music on my new yellow Sony Walkman 🙂 and just really taking time to really enjoy my surroundings. I remember feeling so excited about my new life and being so ready for the challenges ahead. My advice: stop and take it all in. Don’t get caught up in the minor stuff and really find your way. 🙂
get a great bathroom tote – so nice to have all your supplies in one cute tote! Plus great flip flops – never know whats growing on those floors !! Biggest thing, ENJOY! College is a great time to meet new people and try new things – Do it ALL!!
Shower shoes are a MUST if you live in a dorm! And don’t forget to study in between the fun moments you’ll have!!!
Try as many new and different things as you can. It’s a great time to dabble in different subjects and activities.
Everyone starting off college, or already in college, should always remember to stay healthy! They don’t want to pack on that freshmen 15 from eating all those greasy hamburgers and not exercising:)
College is so much better than High School. You pick your classes and times. So I don’t have to wake up at 5 am every morning to catch the bus.
My cousin is soon going away to college and this would be a perfect gift for her since she lives Vera Bradley! Me and my cousin will me so grateful if we receive this! I love Vera Bradley but she LOVES it more!
It is said that as a college student you can only have two out of the three: Good grades, sleep and a social life. The way I got around this was by finding close friends that were also dedicated to their schoolwork…. this way you can have more of a balanced experience!
I love college and I LOVE the new blankets!
Be yourself. There will be all kinds of new people you meet and so many different things going on it can get overwhelming. You’ll make lifelong friends no matter what, whether it be girls from the dorm or sorority sisters. And don’t forget to carry your Vera!
don’t sign up for any classes before 10:00 AM! you’ll soon regret it 🙂
Tip: Walk around campus, mapping out where your classes are before the start of the semester, so that you can get to your classes on time.
Make sure to keep your priorities straight! There are so many things going on while you’re on campus that you cannot forget you’re at college to get an education! Enjoy everything there is to offer at your school but just don’t forget to schedule time for your school work and of course SLEEP! 🙂
Leave your dorm door open when your watching tv or hanging out in your room. You never know who will walk by and become a really good friend.
Get involved on campus! I know this really helped me come out of my shell and meet new people. And if you can’t find something that fits your interests then form your own organization, you’ll be suprised how many people share the same interests!
I’m loving all this advice! I will be a college freshman this fall! Thanks everyone(:
Do not buy your books from the college bookstore unless necessary, because the bookstore is very overpriced.
Enjoy every second of college life. Choose friends wisely, get involved in on-campus groups or ministries, attend athetlic events. Take advantage of fun events or activities offered on campus. And no partying. Drinking alcohol can blow it all. Use our time wisely when it comes to fun and studying. Keep it balanced.
Don’t drink underage. It’s not worth it, and I promise no one REALLY cares whether or not you drink. Save your liver! 🙂
Get involved and meet people–it’s easy to sit in your dorm with your roommate, but that never got anyone anywhere in the beginning. That being said, don’t ditch your roommate; they are your friend too. Make time for them and the living situation will be much easier.
The best tip would be to figure out how you study for the classes for you major. It is a lot different than high school, and your old study habits might not work as well as they did. Also, be open to trying to study with someone. One of my best friends started out as a study buddy!
Definitely figure out a way to keep memories. Either write in a journal or (and I really love this idea) get a jar and put in little scraps of paper with fun times written on them. Then you and your friends can go through the jar at the end of the semester and reminisce! 🙂
Explore your campus! My first few weeks of college, I walked everywhere and discovered so many great places. Four years later, I was still showing my friends neat little hangouts that they didn’t know about b/c they only went to their dorms, their classes, and the university center!
Enjoy your last few years before entering the working world!
Any money that you get should be put towards your loans, no matter how tempting it is to spend it. Birthdays, Christmas, any special occasion, save it all and put it towards your loans. Those cute heels at the mall might be calling your name, but you’ll feel better in the long run when your almost done paying off your loan a few years later and your friends are no where near finished with their payments.
Go to college and just have fun! Don’t worry about anything or anyone from high school because this is where you start your new life. Find out what interests you and go for it because if you don’t like what you’re studying in school, you’ll never be motivated. Go to class, get good grades and have the time of your life 🙂
Don’t be afraid to go out and make friends. But please be safe and don’t forget about your school work. It may seem that college is a great way to socialize and it is but make sure you don’t forget the reason you are at college. And that is to better yourself by furthering your education.
Get to know your professors, even if you you do not need extra help. They can turn out to be a great source for jobs, internships, and referrals.
Make sure you stay organized and on top of all of your assignments. Vera’s folders and binders are life savers!
If it comes down to studying for an A or hanging out with your friends, take the B- the memories are worth more than any grade.
Don’t forget the Ramen Noodles! 😉 College isn’t cheap, so your food may have to be! 🙂
Dont spread yourself too thin! Granted, all the extracurricular activities and sports and parties are fantastic but sleep is a college girls best friend in the long run!
Take some time and soak in your surroundings. Try new things, talk to people you might not ever talk to, sign up for fun events. Make your college years memorable, not just about studying–although do that too!
As a junior and a peer advisor for our honors program, my biggest piece of advice is get to know the older students! More often than not, we made some of the same choices you are trying to and would love to help you do it better than us. It can be kind of intimidating, maybe, but just be confident! 😀
Keep a planner. You will have a lot going on and will need to keep track of all the events. It does not matter what type of planner just use one. It could be the one in your phone, a book type or just a bunch of sticky notes on the wall. But once you have one you can finally tell that boy you will pencil him in!
Have fun, but take your studies seriously! After all, these 4 years affect the rest of your life!
Get to know your professors and actually have a relationship with them. You are more likely to have the drive to succeed if you care about the class or the professor. A lot of times students see a divide between themselves and their professors, but they are there to help you and be a guiding force for four years of your life. Take advantage of all the wisdom they have to share and the opportunities they present to you. They have a gift of advice and influence at such an important time in your life, so don’t let that slip away without appreciating it!
Don’t be afraid of meeting a lot of new people.
You never know when that certain person will
be a tremendous help to you!
Stay true to yourself. College can be a time of drastic changes. Be yourself and keep your focus on your goals and you will navigate through the changes beautifully.
Open up to new experiences and activities but don’t lose sight of who you and your main priority, graduating:) I know being a freshmen can be daunting but stick in there and be yourself!
Getting involved was one of the best things I did. It helped me meet people and stay busy. I also think staying on campus is a good idea- again because of being able to meet people you will know the rest of your life!
Call your parents every once in awhile! LOL!
Make as many friends as possible, try as many different things as possible! Take advantage of free or discounted trips offered by your school. COMMUNICATE with your room mate!
High school life is over so it’s all about managing your time right. If there’s a really fun party you heard about and want to attend that weekend, make sure you work ahead and finish at least half of you school assignments before Friday. It’s never fun to try to finish assignments when all you want to do is sleep on lazy Sundays 🙂 Get out there, meet new friends, and make unforgettable college memories. But remember that after all you’re going to college to earn a degree 😉
If your dorm room feels more like a tiny shoe box than home, use mirrors to make the room appear larger. You can even use washi tape to make them look like windows if you want!
Get involved! There’s so many great things on campus to do that keeps you busy but in a fun way!
Enjoy your last few years with almost zero responsibility. Soak up the opportunities!
keep up on the laundry
My advice is to always be personable! I made a lot of my friends just by being friendly and open with them. Everyone is nervous in the beginning of college but once you open up you can really get close with people!
If all else fails, you can always strike up a conversation about Vera Bradley! 😛
As a recent Graduate I can say first hand, the time goes by a lot quicker than you think. Instead of saying “I’ll do that someday” plan to do it tomorrow! Get out and explore at every opportunity you have, even if its just checking out a new store around the corner!
Step outside your comfort zone and try to meet new people. Introduce yourself first! Excercise to take your stress level down. Eat a few fruits and veggies to keep your energy level going. Study hard, have fun, and call home when feeling a bit homesick. Don’t forget to add a new Vera product to take along with you. Maybe a tech case, handy tote, or pretty new beach towel.
Don’t forget to STUDY !!
Get involved! Do crazy things join lots of clubs!
I think the most important thing I have learned through my college experience is that it is critical to be yourself. I found myself wanting to fit in so badly that it became easy to do things that just weren’t me and the friends I made doing those things weren’t the kind of friends I wanted to have. It is important to have a good support system around you and if your friends don’t know the real you, how can they help you when you need it? After finally recognizing that I was hurting myself and others by being something that I wasn’t, I knew something had to change. I have made the most wonderful friends by being myself. I have become more confident because I know that they love and appreciate me for me and not someone that I am pretending to be. Be true to yourself and your morals and you will make some of the best friends you’ll ever have and THAT will make your college experience the most memorable and very best it can be.
Get involved and don’t procrastinate! Work comes first!
go through sorority recruitment – you will meet amazing women!
I work at a university and see too many people leave their laptops, cell phones, and books unattended when they go to the bathroom or to grab coffee. Regardless of how safe you believe your college campus to be, you need to keep a close eye on your belongings. Take it with you or get a portable laptop alarm.
Play intercollegiate or intramural sports. Being on a sports team will keep you healthy, busy, and, believe it or not, academically disciplined. Be sure to take lots of pictures too!
Make sure u don’t put off doing papers till the last min, get lots of rest and make sure to be involved with school functions and meet new people. Don’t party too much that it takes away from school work. These are very important years cherish them and take advantage of the opportunity you have. Your college years will determine your future success.
College is all about “finding yourself.” One thing that I learned RIGHT AWAY is that the connections you make in college, are going to be the ones that you will use the rest of your life. These people are from all over the world and the friendships you build during your four years, they are always more information to help grow and excel in your career post-college.
Work hard to do well in your classes! Don’t do anything that you might regret later. Also, remember to take breaks from the hard work and have some fun! It is good to set goals of how much school work you need to accomplish before you allow yourself to do the fun stuff.
My advice would be to take advantage of every opportunity available to you for success. Examples are things such as special writing or math labs or free classes designed to help you succeed on a specific topic. Getting all that in your freshman year will make life a whole lot easier and actually give you time for more fun in the future once you get the hang of being on your own.
Get a part time job on campus, you’ll make some money and it’s great to have an “in” with an administrator!
Capture your memories with photographs!
Get involved in something you wouldn’t have done in high school, you will meet new people and may really like it.
Be sure to make time for homework and for relaxing/hanging out with friends. A schedule and weekly planner is a good thing to have!
The best way to enjoy your first year of college is to try a little of everything, you will be able to make a ton of new friends while diversifying your life and resume! Have fun and stay focused! 🙂
Don’t procrastinate! Make sure you stay confident with everything you do. Try to really open up and take in new friends and definitely try new things! Remember college is we’re you come across your best memories and life long friends. So have fun and do things you’ve never thought about doing before. Don’t regret and live large. Come out of your comfort zone and get a group of people to study. College isn’t all about the parties. Make sure you study hard and make your education and future grow! KEEP CALM AND STUDY HARD! You should also take into consideration Vera Bradley’s dorm collection to spice up your dorm room!
Speaking from experience, I would say to not underestimate the power of friendship! The friends I made my first year (including my dorm roommate!) are still my best friends to this day, and we had such an adventure navigating our college years together! Also, organization is key 🙂 Keep a to do list to stay sane, and you will feel super accomplished as you cross things off your list!
Try new things and get involved even though you are at a new place.
Make your dorm space feel like home. It should reflect your personality but be comfortable at the same time. If you make it “your space” and a haven to get away from it all, you will rest better and get more homework done during your “down time” without having to leave for the library all the time.
Something tells me the Vera line coming out in a few days might help with this task!
Though you are at college, and may seem pretty overwhelming at
times, remember those at home, they may be your biggest support system while in college… Have fun and be yourself!
As girl who just finished her Freshman year, my best tip would be to never be afraid to ask for help! Teachers are absolutely there to give you a hand if you’re struggling with a topic in class, and almost any upperclassmen will be willing to help you find your way on campus if you get lost or give you a few good tips on the local bookstores and restaurants.
Being a college student I definitely agree that the main thing you need to do is get involved. This allows you to meet new people that are interested in the same things as you and it helps you in building your resume. Also, it is very important to stay organized. I recommend using a lot of post-it notes and being very thorough in your agenda book and fill in things on the days they are actually due. The thing that has really saved me when it comes to studying is flash cards. Not only are you learning while going over them it helps you remember the information just by filling them out!
I would say definitely put yourself out there. Don’t be afraid to make new friends and take part in campus activities. Get to know Professors and feel comfortable asking questions
I teach high school and I will leave the same advice here that I always give my students: Study hard, work hard–your grades do matter!! That being said, don’t forget to get involved on campus and have fun too! College years are such a great time in your life and make sure that you enjoy them. You can’t take naps once you’re in the real world so make sure to enjoy them in college! My final piece of advice to my students is to make good choices!
I would be sure to make time to do everything you need to do! Im not in college though so I guess I really don’t know!:)
Try a class you’ve always been interested in but never had the time for prepping for college.
Stay focused and determined! Remember what your goals are and the ultimate outcome! Have fun but remember why your there!! 🙂
My advice is: make school your priority. I know that sounds so obvious, but when you get to college sometimes you’re having so much fun with friends and dating, etc. that homework and class can get put on the backburner. Remember why you’re really there. Future you will thank you!
I just finished my freshman year of college and I must say, the biggest piece of advice I can give to an incoming freshman is this: be yourself and don’t be afraid to try new things or meet new people! I opened myself up to a broad spectrum of new people and new experiences my first year and I wouldn’t trade the memories I made for anything! 🙂
Try to have a group of friends outside of course study-groups, join a club or two, and get to know the area that your college is in; There were so many off-campus activities in my college town that I wish I had known about my first year!
There’s something about staying in a dorm that seems quite impersonal- we used Bath and Body Works plug ins to keep our room smelling good, cozy, inviting, and homey. Accessorize and remember that this place (however small) is your home! Keep it clean and tidy. You’ll feel so much better.
Keep organized and take advantage of the time you have in between classes. Don’t use that time to nap! It’s the best time to get your work done!
Before the first day of classes, make a dry run and walk the route to all of your classrooms. It’s not enough to just find the buildings…sometimes buildings have strange room numbering systems, and you can wander around forever. You don’t want to be late on your first day of classes!
Get involved and don’t skip class, even though it will be tempting.
It’s all about balance. Do the work, have some fun, and enjoy the experience!
Find a good balanc of fun and study time. Make new friends, be open to new experiences and allow yourself to join goups/clubs that interest you.
study hard, but always make time to have fun! college is one of the best experiences of your life, make friends, join clubs, join greek life, and work hard!
I will be a college junior in the fall, so I know how being an incoming college freshman can be nerve racking. I learned a lot throughout my first two years of college. My first piece of advice for these ladies is to wait and buy your textbooks. I wasted so much money on books that I ending up not even using. Attend class for about two weeks before you decide to purchase anything. My second piece of advice is to make sure you get to know your professors. Ask them questions if you are confused. Go to their office hours and get help if you are struggling. They want you to succeed! I am so proud of myself for knowing my professors. It certainly helped my GPA. I had borderline grades in three of my classes, but I received A’s because I worked hard and spent time with my professors. Lastly, get out of your comfort zone and attend all campus events! Try and meet as many people as you can! You will be so glad you did! 🙂
Get involved with a group of people you connect with. They will become your support circle as you navigate the ups & downs of college life.
Make good friends who encourage you and make you laugh. Take advantage of opportunities that come your way in college because they could be once-in-a-lifetime!
Thank your parents, and stay in touch. When it comes down to it, they are going to be your biggest support system, whether it be with financial help, advice, or a home-cooked meal! Let them know that you appreciate all that they do.
Do something you never thought you would like! I joined a soriority and absolutely love it! College is about new experiences and discovering what is important to you, no better way to do that then by stepping out of your comfort zone and seeing things in a different light!
Always get work out of the way first! It might seem like a pain, but if you take care of it first you’ll find that you actually have more time for socializing!
Make a list with your Mom, she can think of things you need that you won’t.
Remember your future is always at store. Have fun when you can but your studies always take priority…. Join alot of clubs and meet new people. This is an exciting time in your life..
Try new things!
Try new things, but stay true to your values.
My best advice is to be yourself and not try to overload yourself. Focus on the reason you’re there: school. Don’t spend money you don’t have, don’t be late or skip class, get to know your professors and make a friend in each class in case you miss things. Don’t walk alone at night and make sure you know emergency numbers. Bring a flashlight and an extension cord to keep in your dorm room, and don’t let people on your floor borrow your stuff (it usually doesn’t come back!) don’t be afraid to ask stupid questions, don’t spend too much time on facebook, and call your friends and family a lot. Get involved, but remember that it’s easy to get caught up in the craziness that is college life. Save your quarters for laundry, brew your own coffee (Starbucks gets expensive!) and stay as healthy as possible. If you get a little lost, a little lonely, or a little bit sad, just remember to remind yourself that you’re smart and beautiful and kind, and you can do this, and home is always just a phone call away. No one said it was going to be easy, but it sure will be worth it. Dont let the time pass too quickly, because these are the best times of your life, and they’re only just beginning. Last but not least, make sure you have lots of fabulous Vera Bradley accessories so that you stand out on campus! 🙂
I just received my bachelor’s degree last month and will be starting graduate school in August. My best advice would be to improve your time management skills and get involved on campus. I joined many clubs, honor societies, and organizations during my first semester of college. They helped me meet many new people – some of which I still keep in touch with today. I graduated a year early but was involved in twelve different organizations. I also had a job on campus the entire time I was an undergraduate student, so I developed effective time management skills within the first few weeks of my first semester. Keep a planner and don’t procrastinate. I had a planner on my desk, one that I carried to class, and another in my phone. That way, I completed all of my assignments on time and wasn’t able to forget anything. Another piece of advice would be to improve your professional development. I attended many seminars and conferences as a freshman. I would definitely recommend receiving training in Stephen Covey’s “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.” Other than receiving academic training, college is about learning in general. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone – try new things! However, spend your time wisely and be careful when choosing your friends. Take lots of pictures (appropriate ones, of course) so you can remember these wonderful years. Have fun, but stay smart! 🙂
As a senior in college I love being able up help the freshman get used to the campus and make some friends before classes start! Or the past 3 years I was able to do so but this year I became engaged and have some other things on my plate. I have fallen in love with Vera’s stuff for the dorm and would love to decorate my last apt of college in it!!
Make sure you dont just stick with your roommate: get out there! me and my roommate are best friends because we werent together 24/7 first semester. we made our own friends and ended up becoming best friends by having a very good supportive group 🙂 even if you are shy, put yourself out there! it is so worth it.
I wish there were stylish bed and bath stuff like this when I was in college! I think a happy home clears your mind and you can concentrate better.
My advice for new college students is try not to be overwhelmed. There are changes happening all at once: new environment, 1st time away from home, classes to get to on time & a room mate but enjoy your new experience! It will be worth it to get a great education.
My best piece of advice would be to have fun! Yes, you need to stay focused and work hard, but you’re only in college once so enjoy it! Take this time to try new things, meet new people, and get ready for the rest of your life. In the wise words of Vera Bradley, “Live Colorfully.”
Make a new friend! Someone who has already been at your new campus will know all the best places to to!
After finishing my freshman year of college I learned that you need to read all the materials, get the work done early, get envolved with clubs, most of all breath and enjoy college. You will make it threw it all the ups and downs.
Just graduated from college. Make sure everything has duel purpose you don’t have a lot of space so things need to do a couple of things like a milk crate you can fill on its side and put your printer on top for a shelf.
Join a team or group to make some new great friends that share your interests! Also, step out of your comfort zone to expand your horizons and become a better personal all around. Oh and do the work because a little effort will go a long way!
Always take Friday night off from studies and laundry! This way you have something to look forward to. By the way, this also applies to the rest of your life:).
Reblogged this on crystalhuynh and commented:
Freshman in college is like a new piece of blank paper.It is your future to draw your dream. Dont be nervous and just be yourself. Make sure you make the right decisions and no fooling around!
Study hard and meet new people! Enjoy yourself and remember it goes by so fast.
study hard, but make plenty of time for fun too! meet lots of new people and make friends.
After just finishing my first year away at college, the best campus survival tips I could give would be to go out of your way and make as many new friends as possible and join a couple different organizations. Also make sure to go to all the sporting events you can, that’s where I had the most fun this year. As for your dorm room or apartment decorate it exactly how you want and make it feel cozy after all it is your new home. Don’t procrastinate, stay healthy, and live it up because it flies by!
I agree with so many! Try new things to see what else might interest you. Be social but cautious. Do not get into the “partytillyoudrop” habit that many gravitate toward; remember your purpose: your education. Also, unless you are attending a local “popular” college, you will most likely not know anyone. Embrace this and form new friendships with others you may not have normally befriended.
be sure to go to freshman camp!! (or fish camp, or tiger camp, or whatever your college calls it). it will be one of the best memories of your college career!!!!
Be creative and have fun decorating your new dorm room with amazing Vera Bradley prints! It will inspire you to stay organized, yet have fun while you work towards your future!
Enjoy the experience!
It’s never too late to start building that resume. I’ll be a junior in the fall and have spent most of my time focusing on classes and grades that I’ve forgotten to put in time for shadowing and internships. Don’t procrastinate. Experience is key during Jon hunting. Good luck!
Don’t forget to call home often at first. It really does help you not be so homesick. Plus it helps your parents and siblings not miss you so much either. =)
Try something new – a new club, a new group of friends, a new class that seems interesting to you. Also ask for help if you ever need it for any reason whatsoever. There are tons of caring people who can help – sometimes you just have to seek them out.
Make sure you learn to budget and schedule your time–studying, activities, etc.
Find a good environment where you can study without interruption to maximize your time.
My advice to future freshmen in college would be to make many friends and practice your time management. Studying for classes is great, but finding time for yourself is also necessary. This prevents you from burning out and giving up. Make sure to keep track of all your assignments as well as your class times. Missing lectures can have a great effect on your grades.
Freshman in college in like a fresh sheet of blank paper, a new start! Make sure you choose your decisions wisely. Don’t be apprehensive! It is a start of your future. All you need to do is SMILE BIG! Also, if you want to sleep well, get the new Vera Bradley Reversible Comforter and pillows. There’s nothing like a beautiful comforter, topping you with amazing flowers! Good luck!
Keep a budget & stay away from credit card debt.
The best advice I could give a college freshman would be to stay true to who you are. There are going to be so many things changing and being thrown at you in the next 4 years, and people may pressure you do try to do things or be someone you aren’t. Staying true to yourself will ultimately lead to happiness no matter what! You are who you are for a reason, and never forget it! (And make sure to have some comfy bedding- soft sheets, a plush duvet or comforter, and some nice fluffy pillows in fun bright colors. It will make each day start off bright and cheery!)
Work hard and play hard. Always go to class. Make sure to go visit your professors when you need help. That is how I passed two classes. They saw I was trying. Yay for that b- that I got. Never so excited in my life! Participate! Go to events to meet people. Befriend your neighbors in your dorm. Don’t move off campus. Enjoy it!
Don’t forget to breathe and enjoy the college experience. It will go by quickly and you will look back on it as some of the best years of your life.
Know that above all else school is the priority and being able to go to school is a privilege
Work hard, study hard and make sure you build some “down time” in your schedule so you won’t burn out. Best advice I got from my mom: don’t do anything you’d be embarrassed to read about in the newspaper.
When our daughter left for college we packed her a plastic tub (with a lid) that fit under her bed, filled with all of her favorite snack foods because sometimes dorm food isn’t always what they want. She still talks about how much she loved it!
Yes, yes I do and that was 12 years ago!
Yay! College years are the best! Everyone on campus is intelligent, some are just more dedicated than others. Stay focused, but have a blast =)
I am now entering my senior year and remenicing on all the fun times, down times and everything in-between that made college what it I today and will be as I walk across the stage this May. The one thin that made it all worth the while was GETTING INVOLVED. GET INVOLVED with sporting events, Greek life, campus organizations, choirs, bands, honor societies, with the alumnae, giving campus tours, your dorm floor. You name and your college probably has a group for it or you can start one! It helps give you pride in your university, make connections, lasting friendships and even succeed in your classes. chances are someone in the group took the clas your struggling in and would love to help. Don’t just sit in your dorm room all day with the blinds closed and textbooks all around you. College is the time to start descpverin who you are as an individual put side of those highschool walls. What ever you get involved in on campus make sure it’s reputable and people that meet the same morals you share. And especially don’t be afraid to step up and w a leader I. Your organization if it it’s just the person who brings treats. MAKE A PERSONAL investment in your college experience and ALWAYS CARRY A CAMERA!
College is a crazy ride but if you keep focused and work hard it will all be worth it.
Get involved in intramural sports, Christian campus house, etc. Organizations like sororities are great places to meet people.
Have school spirit! Go to games! Paint your face!
Work hard but have fun. It goes by way too fast.
Oh and buy a planner. Write down your assignments, appointments, etc. Keep track of due dates. And keep a dairy, it’s fun to look back on these days, what you did, your reactions to things and your life in college.
Keep your gpa up! You may need it years later for grad school scholorships.
Do what you love in school and the friendships (and romance!) will follow.
My advice to a new college student would be to stay organized and don’t procrastinate! A student planner is a wonderful tool to help with this. Also, don’t forget your Vera school supplies! =)
be spontaneous. in the dorms you’re surrounded by hundreds of people, potential lifelong friends – grab a couple to tag along when you run your random errands, ask one for a walk, even if its raining, stargaze…you’re going to be up late anyways, and play pranks on each other..you might have to sneak around the RA a little but its completely worth the trouble. having just moved out of the dorms last year, its all those simple and unplanned moments that i miss the most. however, if you’re lucky, the friends you make will still be in you’re life
New start mean new stuff!! Join a club, get involved, and have fun, but be safe! Attend class, dont skip “just because”, and read the material! It may seem like a blow off class yet in reality it is preparing you for the future in one way or another! So if this is a chance to turn around your life so “Throw a blanket” over it. Or if this is just another school dont hind under the blanket, throw it over you and experience new things!!
Be true to yourself and don’t just follow everyone else. Use your common sense.
Check out campus before classes begin and locate your classes, so you’re not frantically searching for them the first day of classes. Also, be excited to meet new people and join in on campus life to make the best of your college experience!
My daughter wanted to get her Master’s Degree in Social Work on a full-time basis, but the college she wanted to attend told her she didn’t qualify for full-time College Classes because she didn’t have enough experience in Social Work. So she ended up getting her Master’s Degree part-time at this same college. Well, don’t let anyone tell you that you don’t quality or that you are not good enough, because you are! She proved to them just how much she wanted that Degree and guess what, she got a 4.0 in each class. Now she has a FULL-TIME JOB in the field she loves. You CAN do it, even when there might be days when you think I just can’t. Oh, and don’t forget to call home once in awhile.
Just because high school started at 8:00am every day, doesn’t mean you’ll have no problem with an 8:00am class at college especially on a Friday. Schedule your classes around your preferences. If you’re a night owl, don’t pick those early morning classes or you’ll be more tempted to skip. And if you really don’t like a class, take advantage of the add/drop time!
Survival tips: get a job on campus ( you are still there in the thick of things and you meet lots of people), shower tote and shoes are a MUST, and don’t forget to call home and talk to your parents at least once a week (they DO worry even though they might say they don’t). Have fun but remember to keep up your grades!
Meet people, make great friends, but don’t lose yourself in the mix – stay true to who you are. Find some activities you enjoy and get involved. Get some rest when you can. And, study. If you’re stressed about grades, you won’t enjoy yourself.
Get involved with clubs or organizations to meet people. Also decorate your room to make you feel at home.
Study hard and enjoy!!! 🙂
Make your room a cozy place to retreat to after a long day of class.
Schedule classes around your preferences. Just because high school started at 8:00 am, doesn’t mean you’ll have no problem getting to an 8:00am class on Fridays. I learned that one the hard way. If you’re a night owl, having classes first thing in the morning means you’re more likely to want to skip. And if you really don’t like a class, take advantage of the add/drop period.
An important piece of advice is to get involved in something. Volunteering is a great way to meet interesting people and can be very rewarding. It is also a great way to obtain references that can be useful when applying for jobs.
My tips are to study hard, select friends with the same values, make good choices, and stay organized! Keep a planner for your course work, social life, sports/physical fitness, and activities. Keep your dorm room clean and organized, too. (You don’t want to be, or have, a messy roommate.)
Don’t forget where you came from. It’s easy to give into things at college because everyone is doing it. Set yourself some standards, but enjoy the college environment.
Get involved with something.
Read your syllabus. If the course seems to easy, you are missing something
Get to know your professors. They are people too. They are willing to help you.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Don’t put papers off. Work on them a little bit at a time, that way you are not scrambling.
Find a perfect study spot.
Take advantage of any plays, concerts, activities, speakers etc on campus
It your roommate is not your BFF it is not the end of the world, but try to be cordial, you are spending a ton of time with them.
Get out of your room.
Take subjects that interest you, but think beyond graduation and take classes that will make you marketable.
Do NOT take your classes out of order. You may think you are super smart, but being a freshman in a senior level course is an equation for trouble.
Have fun. Take risks and take lots and lots of photos 🙂
Make sure you study hard but have fun too! It goes by as fast as high school and then you’re into the wonderful world of working.
Be sure to study and stay focused and imagine studying with the new VB throw on those cool fall evenings.
The best advice I can give is to respect your roommate, get involved in clubs, sports and other organizations, and most importantly…..CALL YOUR MOM!!!!!!!
Bring lots of picture frames with photos of your family at home, friends, and even pets! It can be a little scary when you go far away from home, but little reminders like pictures let you know the people you care about are still there for you even when they are hours away.
Try very hard to balance social life with your studies. Don’t get behind on either one and you will be alot happier.
Hmm, I’d say the advice I wish I had followed 3 years ago as a new Freshmen would be; join lots of clubs/activities! Its can get super lonely first semester, especially if you don’t put yourself out there and meet lots of new people! Also, set boundaries early with your roommate(s), hopefully you can be friends and they won’t be an issue, but in case you can’t, it’s good to know what is and isn’t ok!
Don’t say no to anything. Go to every single possible event and don’t be afraid to meet new people. Oh and please…GO TO CLASS!
Find a study style that works for you! High school was easy for me, so I never learned how to properly study until my first semester of college. I learned that I did best if I made notecards or retyped my notes. Sometimes, colleges have a study skills class that can also be very beneficial. I know I took one before I took the GRE and it was very helpful. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
I would have to agree with a lot of the other comments that getting involved with your campus is important. I am a very shy person and I was worried that I wouldn’t make friends at school. But I decided to get involved on some committees and join a few clubs and it made it so much easier to make friends. The people who were involved in these different groups were also hardworking students and it was amazing to surround myself with them! KSU ❤
Do get some sleep – especially before tests.
No matter what always stay confident in your self and stay true to your self. Make positive friends that like you for you and don’t change for anyone. Having confidence will always leave you happy.
Get involved in an organization in your major! It will help you get to know the people you will be around for the next four years and it can also get you good connections!
No matter how homesick you feel, stay on campus so you can get to know more people and make friends. That is one of the best ways to feel involved and connected with your school. The more involved you are the less you miss home.
College will be one of your happiest memories in life. The friends you will met will be your friends for life. Stay motivated and do not fall behind on studying. Be involved on campus and you should have a good experience!!! 🙂
Although sororities may not be for everyone-check it out. I loved it! My sorority help make my college years the absolute best.
Learn to manage your time wisely and try not to procrastinate!
Get involved and meet new people. These friendships will last through college and possibly for a lifetime. And have fun!!!
It’s important to understand that it’s ok to make mistakes. Just can’t hold them against yourself. Things happen no reason to dwell on them
Get a planner, and schedule when different assignments are due from your syllabus in the beginning of the semester! Mark reminders a week before a big assignment is due so you don’t forget; college professor’s don’t remind you when papers are due, and many don’t accept late work at all!
Because college can be so mentally draining, take the time NOW to plan the design and decor of your dorm room, including some of the new items from the Vera Bradley bed and bath line. And don’t forget a few mementos from home to enhance that feeling of coziness. Surrounding yourself with loveliness and familiarty can serve as a hug to you after those long stressful days and will be just the “Welcome home” you need to help you attain your goals.
After a year at college my best advice is to bring rain boots! You are outside a lot more in college walking from class to class and nothing is worse than having wet feet. You can get a lot of cute ones these days, even ones to match your favorite Vera Bradley pattern.
My advise is to work with your roommate to design one room that flows and not have 2 sides of the room look completely different! I mange college dorms, so I have seen my share of room disasters, so roommates need to start getting to know each other now so that it isn’t so awkward on move in day. They should work together so that there aren’t 2 fridges but no TV.
Have fun but study too!
Meet new people! Have fun but do not forget the reason that you are in college.
High school DID NOT prepare you for college, but your best friends did. Keep them close.
And wear sunscreen.
Have fun, but make sure to study! You are ultimately there to learn, but I promise there will be plenty of opportunities to have fun along the way! Make lots of new friends and make sure you remember to go to class and get to know your professors. Don’t forget to carry a little Vera Bradley with you at all times to make your day a little brighter! 🙂
Get to know the library immediately.
Get Sleep, Get involved, but not toooooo involved! and HAVE FUN!!! =
Make as many friends as you can this year, as they will be the ones who stick with you throughout college and beyond!
To remember that partying and drinking are NOT something everyone does and people will not judge you if you say no!
College advice?! Bring plenty of bath supplies… When you run out– you’re out! Also, check out the area to find a convenient supermarket… PERFECT for more snacks and supplies! 🙂
Nothing worth while is easy. A successful college career requires years of hard work, and you can’t expect to be a success without devotion and sacrifice. Enjoy yourself and “be colorful” 🙂
Make sure to get off campus and enjoy the area you are in. Explore often and meet people in the community! Get to know an upperclassman to help you gain tips about the college or area. Listen to your professors, use the library! Oh, and bring an umbrella and rain boots!
It is your chance to reinvent yourself! Don’t be afraid to be who you are! Make as many new friends aS you can and do not judge others based on their look! Some of your best friends could be someone who is so different from you! Branch out and have fun doing do!
Make a list and check with your roommate to see what you can share–space is always limited!
Coming from someone who just graduated nursing school, don’t give up! When life hands you lemons, put them on display in a clear vase! Also, join organizations…this is a great way to get more involved, meet new people, and make connections for future employment opportunities. And lastly, have fun! Try not to get sucked too deep into the academic life and remember to enjoy the college experience!
Don’t feel obligated to pick a major right away. No one expects you to know what you want to do for the rest of your life the moment you move into your dorm room. If you don’t know for sure what you want to major in, that’s fine! That’s why you’re at a college. Take classes that interest you and see what suits you best. Meet with your advisor and see what path they tell you to try. If you find yourself frustrated with a major that you picked, don’t be afraid to switch it! An extra year of college is a much better alternative than a lifetime of working a job you can’t stand.
Don’t forget where you came from and who helped you get here. The past 18 years of your life have been building up to this moment. They’ve been shaping you to be who you are today. You’ve had friends, teachers, coaches, and parents all help you get here and mold you into the person you are. Being apart from them for the first time is hard, but don’t let that ruin your relationship with those people or the connection you have with the place you were before here. Try not to lose touch with your friends. Send your parents at least a text message every few days. Keep your favorite teachers informed of all your successes. You’re gaining so much at college, but try not to lose anything you had before·
Don’t feel obligated to pick a major right away. No one expects you to know what you want to do for the rest of your life the moment you move into your dorm room. If you don’t know for sure what you want to major in, that’s fine! That’s why you’re at a college. Take classes that interest you and see what suits you best. Meet with your advisor and see what path they tell you to try. If you find yourself frustrated with a major that you picked, don’t be afraid to switch it! An extra year of college is a much better alternative than a lifetime of working a job you can’t stand.
Get involved with on campus activities. You make great friends for life this way and helps keep you balanced.
I just wish the linens came in King size for those of us married and well past college! These are precious, wonderful years — enjoy them as they will go by FAST.
Don’t be too ambitious. Just because you could manage a heavy and hectic schedule in high school doesn’t mean you can do it in college. It can be overwhelming and may risk setting you back as opposed to advancing you further. As a freshman, start with 14 or 15 credits and get your feet wet. There’s no need to do too much too soon! You’ll still be able to graduate on time and you’ll be able to adjust better and be more stress free.
Don’t ignore your e-mails. It’s easy to read the subject line of an email and think, “It’s probably not that important,” or “It’s not worth my time.” Break that habit starting now. You don’t want to miss important messages from your professors that could make your life easier. After all, you wouldn’t want to walk all the way across campus in the snow just to find out that your class was canceled by an email you chose not to read.
Since I just finished my freshman year, I feel much wiser and ready to tackle my sophomore year. Some advice I can give would be not waiting until the last minute to study! Also, do not give into the temptations of getting ice cream from the cafeteria every day (although it is tempting..) But the BEST advice I can give would be to tote some Vera Bradley gear around campus! I used my favorite Vera Bradley backpack for my freshman year, and got so many compliments on it. It’s a fun, bright way to stand out, and makes going to class every day more stylish and fun!
Don’t mix up your priorities. Yes, part of coming to college means meeting new friends and having new experiences, but it’s not the reason you’re there. If you’re thinking about what party you’ll hit up this weekend more than what homework you should be doing, you might jeopardize what you’re really there for. Don’t let your new found independence get out of hand. And also, just as there’s such as thing as too much social time, you don’t want to have too little. If you isolate yourself from campus life, you’re missing out on the complete college experience. There’s something here for you to get involved in, and there’s people to meet everywhere you go. Go find it/them!
Don’t skip class. Welcome to the wonderful world of college where no one can force you to go to class anymore. It sounds great, right? Finally, you have all the freedom you’ve been waiting for. But, keep in mind that now, no one can force you to pass your class either. It’s all up to you to stay motivated and excel, which is hard to do when you’re not there.
The best advice I can give is to sport some Vera Bradley gear around campus! This past year I used my Vera backpack, laptop case, and binder — I can’t tell you how many compliments I got. Wearing my Vera backpack around campus made me feel as though I stood out, and brightened up every outfit, even on the rainiest days. I can’t wait to buy my new tote bag this fall for school!
Get involved and make friends!
As a young college teacher, my best advice to incoming college students is never to be afraid to talk to professors or ask questions. Office hours, email, and even Skype hours (from some) are made available to you for a reason, and teachers love it when eager, inquisitive students want to communicate. It’s a signal to us that a) the student wants to learn and succeed, and b) maybe we’re not explaining something clearly enough. I love getting to know students through conversation, and enjoy helping students who question, send drafts of papers, and even bounce ideas around. New college students, don’t be afraid of us! We’re here to help you learn 🙂 (And if you’re carrying a VB bag, we might like you even more! ;-))
Studying should always come first!
Keep lots of pictures of loved ones in your dorm room!
Get involved in school activities!
My advice is to stay organize and make are you put in time to rest! Eat healthy food !
come in with a positave attitude,do not be scared I bet you will love it and pay attention in classes.(even if they are boring).p.s they will love just about ever thing you have that is vera bradley. ♥ 😀 ♥ 🙂 ♥ 😀 ♥ :)Have a great semester!♥
:D♥ your friend allison♥:)
Bring enough underwear for a month. Laundry is not always on the top of the list of things to do!
Find an extracurricular that you love because it will help you make lifelong friends, but don’t let it interfere with your academics which is the most important thing.
I would say try to be organized, on time and get involved. Also just enjoy your time there, and try no to spill your coffee in those morning classes that’s never good.
Enjoy every moment! One minute it’s your first day of classes and before you know it, you’re walking across a stage to grab your diploma! So take in every second, laugh, and don’t take yourself too seriously- you’ll have plenty of time for that postgrad! 🙂
Don’t take any 8o’clock classes the first year. Get to know the people in your dorm. It’s spool much fun!
Focus on the real reason you are going to college in the first place! Pick a major that you really do enjoy and love and you will make it just fine!! Study hard and keep your focus on the future 😉
Do not pay full price for your school books. So not worth it. Look at used book stores and on line. My daughters saved a fortune doing that. The biggest piece of advice: Never be someone you are not.
hey,you are going to do great!have fun but do not forget to do your work and try your best and love vera bradley!!!!!!!!!!!
Two words: shower caddy. I am not in college yet but I’ve heard from many people that you do not want to be in that bathroom for too long and staying organized with a shower caddy will really minimize the time you spend in the bathroom.
When it comes to organization, I love anything with hooks, whether it goes over a door or hangs in your closet with extra hanging space (like the owl scarf hanger- or a jewelry hanger). Anything that gets stuff off of the floor will be a must-have! Keep the floor and bed clean!
1. Get as much sleep as you can…naps are necessary.
2. Don’t procrastinate.
3. Get involved on campus.
4. Make sure to have fun.
5. Eat healthy foods
Try new things and work hard. Stay ahead in class and readings and get enough sleep. Meet new and diverse people and don’t be afraid of new valuable experiences. Be prepared for the worst but expect the best. Above all, have fun and do what makes you happy. Always do and give your personal best. Cherish the time you have and don’t take any opportunities for granted! College will fly by, but the memories you make will last a life time, so, make the time you have count, that way you will look back at your time in college with pride and joy!
Take a nap whenever possible; sleep is in short supply for the next 4 years!
Get involved early! That’s the best way to meet friends and feel like your college is your home 🙂
Keep active so that the freshman 15 don’t sneak up on you!
Be open minded and get involved!
Living on campus is one of the most fun parts of college! Enjoy your time on campus and make the most of it!
Get involved. Find out what activities are going on around campus, it’s a great way to see the campus and meet new people. 😉
Never regret trying something new! If you fail, you probably still had fun! And if you succeed, then life is that much sweeter!! Talk to someone you don’t know…and stay up late sometimes just talking to friends! 🙂
Love Vera!! One of my best friends from college introduced it to me and now I am addicted!! 🙂
Make good connection with your professors! They will be your best resource in and out of school.
Make sure you involve yourself in different activities and don’t go home every weekend or you’ll never stop being homesick.
My daughter will be a freshman at Indiana University this fall. Everyday I am sharing “Mom’s Words of Wisdom”. My biggest advice ~ don’t be afraid to ask for help. Learn time management, find an activity that helps clear your head in times of stress (yoga, biking, walking, whatever), and meet as many new people from different walks of life as you can…
Have fun, but do your school work! Get good grades! Make friends! Make sure to keep in touch with your friends and family at home! Definitely live, love, and laugh! : )
Go to class and ask for help if you need it. Also, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone a little bit!
Start using a few of your new dorm things at home before you go away to school. I used my dorm comforter on my bed at home for a few weeks, as well as my new pillows. This way, your dorm feels a bit more homey! It’s not some foreign room filled with brand new things, but things you are used too.
Join Clubs or organizations; it is a great to meet people with with the same interests.
Study diligently but make time to relax & have fun.
My best advice would be that if you haven’t chosen a major yet – don’t dtress. Take all of your required classes first and get them out of the way. This will allow time to determine exactly what it is you want to do.
Try to make every class and get to know your professors/instructors/teaching assistants. They can really help you, both during your class and in the future!
While it may seem like spending hundreds of dollars on textbooks is inevitable, there are ways to save money. Before you even think about heading to the bookstore, don’t you think someone else on campus has already had to buy and use the book you need? Borrow it if it’s possible. If not, buy used books. Most of the time, there’s not much of a difference, and some will have notes in them that may make things easier for you when the time comes. At the end of the semester, you can sell your books back either to the bookstore, online, or to a friend. (Just acknowledge that you’re not going to get retail value for it anywhere you try to sell it.) Another option is renting your books. While you don’t get any money back at the end of the semester, you save more money in renting then you would’ve gotten for selling it back if you had purchased outright.
Eventually, you’ll need a break from cafeteria food. My advice? Easy mac. But, there are lots of other inexpensive options. The next time you head home or out to the grocery store, stock up on the fixings for peanut butter and jelly, cheese and crackers, and all things microwavable. Split the cost with your roommate and enjoy your homemade college dinners. Skip the fast food and late night take-out. Delivery fees are overpriced, plus you have to tip. Try to avoid sit down restaurants with friends. You’ll automatically get charged 15-20% gratuity and the restaurant won’t want to divide the check eight ways, so you’ll end up splitting the bill, potentially paying more than the cost of what you actually ordered.
Dump the high school boyfriend! If you’re meant to be, you’ll end up together anyway, bur start your new life unfettered.
Put yourself to work! Become a tutor. Work in one of the cafeterias. Find an on campus job. Find an off campus job. Whatever the case may be, find something you’re good at or something you wouldn’t mind doing and watch your bank account multiply. Not only will it make you richer, but it’ll amp up your time management skills, which are pretty important in college.
Don’t skip class. It’s very tempting, but you are only hurting yourself.
If you find a class to be more challenging, get a study buddy! Sharing notes and memorization tricks is helpful. Studying with someone can relieve some stress.
Get a planner and use it!!!
Be everywhere, do everything, especially your first year. Signing up isn’t a a contract, you’ve got no obligation if you don’t like it, bit this way you’ll find out what you do like! Same with classes, take the most interesting sounding classes you can, who knows when Philosophy of Comic Bold wool Ebert be offered again.
Explore new opportunities!
study lots, pay attention in class,have fun,
and DO NOT forget to always make time to check out the new vera bradley patterns and styles!!!
Make some trusted friends that you can count on and turn to for advice during this year of transition.
Diet during the summer to compensate for the 5 to 10 pounds you will gain the first semester – LOL!!! I see this all the time!
Go out and meet people, join different groups, go to a variety of events. College is the only place that you get to do all of these things at once, so take advantage of it, and enjoy it.
Don’t bring your whole house with you!! Dorm rooms are small! You will have at least one roommate and coming with too much stuff starts you off on a bad foot! Be ready to compromise and have fun meeting new people.
Beware of all the low to zero interest credit card offers that are sure to be coming your way. It might seem like just a quick charge and you will pay it off soon, but credit card debt can stack up quickly. If you want to establish your credit, save your money for what you want to charge first. Then you can charge it and pay it off over a few months and establish credit, but know that you do in fact have the money for it.
Have your Aunts or other close relatives send you regular care packages with enough snacks for you and your friends. You’ll appreciate it and they will like helping you and hearing your feedback and thank you’s.
Get a toaster oven and a small fridge for food. Do you laundry at least once a week. J U S T H A V E F U N A N D B E S A F E 🙂
Get involved with as much as you can, but be sure to keep your activities manageable with the amount of schoolwork you will have. Check out club day at your school to sign up for list-serves of clubs/student organizations that look interesting. Also, keep on top of your work because once you fall behind it is extremely difficult to catch up. Always always always introduce yourself to your professors; once they put a face to a name you can build a relationship with them. Professors are there to help you and by building an strong relationship with your professors you will be put on the fast track to success 🙂 Good luck! Take it from a recent college grad, 4 years goes by very quickly!
Decorate your space in your dorm room with the new Vera Bradley comforter and matching accessories. It will feel like your special retest and a great place to study.
special retreat. (typo)
Always have a schedule to follow. It’s always nice to know when different things are going on so that you can plan other activities around your classes! Also, make sure that you’re decked out with the best Vera Bradley accessories… don’t forget style!
First sheets and then dorm stuff! I can’t stand it how awesome is that!
Well, past the obvious of studying hard and getting your education, my bit of advice would be to make those lifelong relationships and memories. I have my education, but more importantly I have my best friend, we met the first day of college as suite mates in 1986. She beat me there and already decorated the bathroom in clowns, I was like what the heck? Anyhow, 26 years later we are still the best of friends, both having 2 children and even surviving the loss of both our husbands. The friends and memories you make I think are the most valuable and important in your young life.
less is more! dorm rooms are usually tiny, so only bring what know you need! not what you think you need…
Meet new people, have fun, laugh a lot and clean up after yourself. This will help keep your roommate happy if they don’t have to move around your mess all the time.
College is the time to become who YOU want to be. Keep this in mind when making decisions (like your major, classes to take, people to hang out with, clubs to join). It’s a fresh start, now you don’t need to weigh what others are doing to decide what you want to be doing. This also means you are absolutely free from peer pressure-so don’t do something because you think that’s what you’re expected to do. If you decide to study on Saturday instead of partying, no worries! And good for you! (I’m a college junior.)
Don’t forget the four F’s friends, family, fun, and fashion! Believe in yourself and reach for the sky.
Don’t subject yourself to peer pressure.
Remember safety comes first! Find out about security on campus and figure out a plan just in case. Live your life, but make sure you have a plan for help, if you need it. Make sure you keep your family or a loved one aware of your schedule and goings on, check in regularly. Don’t take a drink from someone you don’t know and don’t turn your back on it either.
Don’t stress out! College is supposed to be the best four (or more) years of your life, don’t spend it with a chip on your shoulder. Make all the friends you can, this is what makes the college experience all the worthwhile! And as I’ve learned from experience, try not to put things off until the last minute, it’ll really bite you in the behind! (:
Go to CLASS!
Don’t skip because you will get behind. Make sure
you turn in your assignments. Register at the church
of your choice, and attend church services regularly.
Pay attention in class , don’t be gullible
and keep in touch with your family. They will always
be there for you. Don’t be too trusting and have some
fun.
Don’t forget to call home! Parents do care!
Advice from an English teacher: actually read the books your professors assign you. There’s a world of adventures in books…just pages away! 🙂
I had an absolute blast in college – it really was the best four years of my life – so far! My advise is to forget everything about high school – I moved halfway across the country and didn’t know anyone when I arrived at college. Do things you didn’t think you would do, join a group that makes you feel good about yourself, take classes that you are interested in – especially for those required “well rounded education” classes. Take time to study when you need it since you don’t want a really expensive bill for spending a year partying and dropping out at the end of it. Oh WVU I miss you!!
Go to class!
I love Vera Bradley, and I’d love to be able to fit my dorm room with some Vera Bradley stuff!!! Especially since I’m going to go to school on the other side of the country than where my home is!!!
Become active in student life on campus (clubs, sports, organizations etc)! It’s a great way to meet new friends and have fun during all of your free time!
When u go to college put as much effort into it as much as possible because you will get back as much as you put into it especially of you are paying for it or your hard working parents are paying for it
Definitely the flip flops! So versatile, they can go from dorm room to shower, from shower to lunch on the quad, from lunch to class. And everywhere they get NOTICED. Go Vera on campus!
Buy rainboots, you’ll need them.
Don’t freak out the first week of school. College takes some getting used to. After a while, you be getting around campus, finding time to study, and figuring out where to get some midnight ice cream like a pro!!
My advice is to remember how much money you are paying to attend school…keep that as a motivator to go to class, do your schoolwork (well) and get plenty of exercise as well as rest. 🙂
It’s been a few years since I was in college, but I will say don’t let who you were in high school define your college life. I know sometimes you can get pigeonholed into a category or clique when you’re young, but college is the time to try new things and reach out to people you might never have talked to. Take advantage of campus groups and mixers – get out there and figure out who you want to be!
Keep your dorm room door open the first two weeks! People will stop by and that’s the best way to make friends and connect with your floormates! Better yet, bake some cookies and stop by everyone on your floor to welcome them!
Don’t try to figure it all out the first year. Get to know new folks, and search your heart to find out who you want to become and where you want to go in life!
Don’t be afraid to take chances-whether it be with new friendships or in class selections.
Make your living space your very own with LOTS of colors that make you happy.
Make your space your very own by using LOTS of colors that make you happy.
Study hard and enjoy the ride.
If I could redo my undergrad years, I would have been more involved in clubs and extra-curricular activities. College is all about once in a lifetime experiences. Step out of your shell and enjoy the journey! It goes by so fast!
Remember that you’ll only have this experience once, so enjoy it, but no too much!
Make friends, get involved. These are relationships that will last a lifetime!!!
Make sure you get enough rest, learn how to take good notes, form study groups, get involved but don’t get distracted, get to know where everything is in the school and the right departments. Learn to make healthy snacks, you’ll be in a rush most of the time and you dont want to eat junk.
Use your time wisely!!
Explore every group of friends and get the most broad type of your college experience!
Go to class and study, study, study….you have the rest of your life to have fun but now is the time to work hard for a good future!
I just read all of the previous comments and everyone has left great advice for those entering college!
One thing that really helped me was to meet each professor within the first few days of class. The easiest way is to introduce yourself right before or after class and either ask a quick clarifying question or comment about something relating to the class or an assignment. Your professor can put a face to the name on his/her list and it shows that you are interested in learning from them. Along the same lines be sure to ask intelligent questions in class and enter into class discussions.
It’s important to be involved with campus activities and to enjoy your college experiences, but remember that the reason you are in college is to learn so that needs to be your main focus and top priority.
Also, be aware that when you first arrive in your dorm room it looks so unwelcoming . . .almost like a cell! Take the time (let your family help!) to improve it with your new bedding, rugs, curtains, posters/pictures, etc. One person can start decorating while the others continue to carry things in. We took before and after pics and the transformation was amazing. (If you arrive before your roommate be courteous about space and be willing/offer to make changes once your roommate arrives.)
Good luck!!!
College is a great time, but you need to be responsible not only for your studies, but for you life and experiences. Make sure that you know your requirements for your degree and ask questions, do not rely solely on your advisor. But most of all. . . have fun!! Be adventurous, and be colorful!!
Do not save all your laundry & bring it home for your mother to wash. When you come home, she wants to enjoy time with you, not be stuck @ home by herself doing laundry all the time.
Plan a regular time to study in the library. It is quiet and there are limited distractions……maybe you’ll meet other students that want to be successful their freshman year too!
Stay in close touch with your family…always!
Until you know your way around campus, leave your dorm early. It is better to be the first student in class than the late student. Oh!…and stay away from Ramen Noodles your freshman year…helps avoid the Freshman 15!
Dress for the weather and in layers, eat well, and get your sleep. Stay healthy!!
Get to know your professors & the financial aid people. They can help you get jobs, network & connect with additional scholarships offered to current students.
I just finished my Freshman year of college and am SO excited for the fall 2012 semester to begin! My advice for incoming freshmen is to enjoy the new environment which encourages growth, friendship, and independence. Try to get involved with as many campus activities as possible to meet new friends and you’ll build up your resume at the same time, while also keeping in mind your goals and values! Oh and of course don’t forget to pack your Vera!
Make sure you always have a pact with your friends that no one leaves each other at the end of the night. Never allow anyone to leave a party alone.
Don’t let new “friends” change who you are by their bad influence.
I’ve just finished my freshman year of college, and I loved it. College is a place for you to make yourself over, and be who you want. People there are less judgmental, and because there are more people, it’s easier to find your niche. Make friends with people who you really get along with, and who share values with you, but keep yourself open to meeting people that weren’t necessarily the kind of people you were friends with in high school. Join the clubs that sound interesting, no matter how random or dorky they seem. Don’t do things you’ll regret, and stay safe. 🙂
Earplugs and an eyemask are a mus twhen sharing a dorm room to get the sleep you need if room mates stay up later than you!
Learn where you best study. It took me two years to go to the library to study and it really made a difference in my grades. I wasn’t really getting it in my noisy dorm room.
College is an amazing time – live every day to the fullest – that means learning something every day, having fun hanging out with friends, volunteering, etc. Have so much fun b/c you really only have to be somewhere a few hours each day!
During college, find an older student that has the same major you have, and ask questions to her regarding where classes are and what classes to take.
Save your quarters! Whenever you get change, treat quarters as if they were gold and hang onto them. They add up quickly and you’ll always have money for laundry!
Advice for college…get involved, meet as many people as you can, create a beautiful space in your dorm so you’ll want to spend time there…studying!!
Call home often – your folks want to hear your voice.
Put yourself out there, be one to begin a connection even with just a simple “Hi” it could be a bright spot in anothers day.
Enjoy the time you have with your friends and appreciate what they bring to your life. You will reflect on the time you spent with them with a smile as you continue your life’s journey.
Study hard, but if you’re super busy don’t forget to schedule time for fun, too–it makes it easier to get your work done when you have something to look forward to!
Always go to class, put yourself out there and join different clubs and organizations, and most importantly if you have an undecided major explore all your options so you chose a great career path. Enjoy!! This is the best time of your life, but don’t fall behind on your responsibilities of school .
If you think about trying something–try it! College is a time to try new things, start fresh after high school, and redefine who you think you are.
Meet people, join in activities and clubs, have fun, and don’t forget to study! :)These friends will be your friends for life.
Study and don’t eat snacks at night!!
learn as much about life as you can. study hard!
Take a class in a totally different field just for the fun of it. You may be surprised at what you end up liking!
Put yourself in situations that will help you meet people. Hang out in the lobby of the dorm attend a sporting event, etc.
Pick classes you will like – it will make you study harder and want to go!
As a current college student my best advice for incoming freshman is to just to relax and have fun! If you do that making new friends will come naturally!
I would tell a freshman in college to not get behind in their courses because it is so hard to catch up. Also, get invovled in the college life and make new friends while you are young and carefree. You only get to live life this way once!!!
Have fun, study hard and enjoy!
Only take half of what you think you need. Storage is truly limited, and you may find you can get along without a lot of the “necessities” you packed!
Be patient!!!!
get a lot of rest!
Command hooks are awesome! Used them all the time.
Lay down the law with roommates the first day.
Never be afraid to label things.
Pack all the clothes you want to bring, and then cut it in half. You won’t believe how much you truly don’t need.
Always Be Willing To Meet New People!!
If You Have A Girlfriend Buy Her Tons Of Things From Vera Bradley And Make Sure Her Room Has The New Dorm Room Items!!
I’m graduating college this December. The best advice I could give any underclassmen is have fun, but stay on top of your school work. Find the balance that works for you. I often got overwhelmed with my school work that I forgot to relax and have fun once in while. Thank God my friends brought me down to earth when I needed it.
Stay organized and keep up with the papers. Take notes.
I just finished my freshmen year of college. The most important things to remember is to have fun! They always say highschool is the biggest and most fun time of your life, but I truely think that it’s college where you meet your best friends and make the biggest decisions of your life! So stay positive, keep happy, and study hard!!
Read the assigned books, and take advantage of office hours. Both professors and teaching assistants appreciate it if you put forth the effort, and it will help you learn and remember the material!
Find a group that likes to cook and take turns cooking for each other. It’s hard to cook for one and eating out all the time will wear you down! The fellowship is great, too!
Invest in a good pair of rainboots! No one likes wet jeans or sliding out of their flip flops. A cute way to brighten up a rainy day and it keeps you dry while walking to classes.
Make friends with the upperclassmen! They are the wise ones who have navigated all the murky waters and found the pearls of campus life — they know all the best places for food, studying, and having fun. And they only bite a little bit.
Get involved in activities, study, and have fun.
A good map and dont be afraid to ask for directions. Not only will it help you get where you need to go but you just might meet a new friend!
Do your homework, make friends, have a warm and comfy blanket to curl up in and read a book!
Make friends, make time for yourself, don’t sweat the small stuff & do go to class…and do get some sleep! There’s plenty of time to explore everything!!! Have fun and make memories!!
Don’t take this time for granted!!! College offers you some of the best, carefree years of your life. Study hard and take advantage of every opportunity available to you, but also get involved and meet your lifelong friends!
I wish this was hear when I was in college. Love the patterns.
Jennifer B. NYC
Always have a tide to go pen nearby!
Study hard, have fun, keep true to yourself and stay connected to your family!!! Keep smiles and happiness in your life by surrounding yourself with Vera!
As much fun as it might be to stay out late and party, keep up with your studies!
Enjoy it, it goes by way too fast!!
Make sure you get enough rest! And ask lots of questions when you are in class!
Be yourself.
Freshman year goes by really fast and can cheat even the most intelligent student. My secret is time management and a Vera Bradley agenda.
I miss those college days, didn’t quite have those vb things!!
Live for every moment — it goes so fast! Oh, and do wear flip flops in the shower — you’ll thank me. 🙂
Check all profs on ratemyprofessor.com . It’s a life-saver in helping to avoid ridiculous profs. Also,carry a planner, I favor VB’s student agenda ;), to help keep you in the habit of being organized!
Get involved. Join clubs and groups. It’s a great way to meet people!
Great ideas for those headed to college this year. Loved having Vera around when I was in college….get involved….have fun!
Communication is key in every relationship, especially with your roommate. Make sure you talk about your plans and divide certain chores up, like taking out the garbage and helpbthem remember when it’s their turn. Also, keep a detailed calender. It’s easy to lose track of events and meetings!
Be active in your education. Be involved in class and in the dept of your major. Know your professors.
The more beautiful the room the happier, more comfortable, and better you will feel about yourself. That will give you the confidence to tackle anything life sends your way!!! Enjoy every moment !!!!
Hang out with people that aren’t in your major! Some of my closest friends I met through gen ed classes 🙂
Maintain a schedule and make as many friends as possible. Be open to all opportunities and try new things.
Take every good opportunity you can possibly find! Whether it’s a job on campus, an internship, or a volunteer project, you never know what great things will come your way as a result of it. You can make a lot of connections for the future, make new friends, and have a lot of fun!
Get out and mingle! Make friends for life. Have study groups and enjoy the last 4 years before you have to do the 8-5 thing for 30 years!
Remember that this will all go by really fast. Study (one day you will have to pay back your student loans) Meet new people and expierence as much as possible! (you are going to want to have the best friend from college) And make sure your room is super cute in vera. 😉
College will go really really fast so enjoy it. You will not be able to be involved in every club so pick a few clubs you really want to be a part of. Be sure to study that is why you are attending college, but take advantage of all of the free speakers and campus events. I did not really start doing that until my junior year. I know I missed out on some great opportunities.
Live on campus your first year (if it is not required and is possible). Get involved and find your niche. This will allow you to meet people and really feel apart of the campus community. Study hard and play hard but studying is most important. Always remember you are a student first and to get an education is why you are in college.
Don’t be afraid to ask for and seek help.
Always get plenty of rest and make sure you have extra money put to the side so you can buy some new Vera Bradley stuff!!
Use your time wisely. Before you know it you will be a Senior and want to leave with no regrets. Make great friends, enjoy – yes enjoy your classes. Really take time to get to know your professors – there is so much you can learn from them outside of just lectures. Finally take good care of yourself. Do not get so run down that you lose energy. Most people have to go out and get a job after college and never have the freedom of being a student again!
Purchase rain boots for rainy day treks across campus! You’ll be thankful you did so, trust me!!! 🙂
Style in your dorm…A perfect study environment is one you feel the most cormfortable in…
Get out and join groups,
Get enough sleep,
Get to class and take them seriously (or you’ll be a senior and regretting it!!!)
After meeting your roommates be sure to set boundaries for your dorm room:
like cleaning one day a week, not to bring any friends in the room after a certain time, different things you agree to so there aren’t unnecessary fights later and most important stay true to your beliefs, don’t go along with the crowd just to win friends.
Go to class, learn something. Don’t look for the professors that are the easiest, look for the ones that everyone loves because they actually teach.
Don’t worry about what anyone else things. Just be yourself, enjoy your classes, and have fun!
Pack lightly but colorfully! Bright colors will help brighten each day. Savor every moment! Life is full of many colors! 😀
Just remember, you are paying for it, professors don’t care if you come to class or not, its your money you’re wasting, so go to class, be involved, and have fun!! It will be over before you know it,then its off to the real world!
Enjoy! Be mindful of your living space. You don’t need to take everything you own with you. Study in the laundry room while you are washing your clothes; nobody can take your clothes out of the dryer, it is quiet, and it smells good. Don’t be afraid to question your instructors. You are in college to learn, not be brainwashed. Join at least one group or organization to be part of your college community. If there are coupon books around, grab them. Late night sometimes require pizza. And most importantly . . . Call home just to say “I love you and miss you.” to your family. This is a time of transition, loneliness, and change for them too.
I’m a “non-traditional” student. In other words, this is my second time in college and I’m 45 years old and working on my bachelors degree in special education. To the college students just starting out I recommend inviting one of the many non-traditional students to be part of your study group. You can learn so much from each other. The nontraditional student can learn the newest technology and trends from you. And you can reap the benefits of the vast life experiences from him or her.
Get enough sleep….wrap up in that cozy Vera Bradley bedding and make sure you’re up and ready for your early class! My daughter is one of these incoming freshman!
My daughter will be a freshman and she is in love with Vera this would be a wonderful gift for her
My best advice for a college first year is to pack plenty of comfortable items such as blankets, sweatshirts, sweatpants and lots of Vera Bradley items (there’s always a need for Vera). School is very stressful but when you have great comfortable items it makes studying so much easier (and cute).
Positive and beautiful surroundings will always make your trip from home much more relaxing. The bright colors can liven up any mood.
Love the college dorm items vera has to offer and all new new colors to make everything bright and pretty.