 Take your health seriously. How much sleep you get, what you eat, whether you exercise, and what decisions you make about drugs, alcohol, and sex all affect your well-being and how well you will do in classes. Find healthful ways to deal with stress, too. Your counseling center can help.
 Have realistic expectations. At first you may be disappointed in the grades you make but remember that college is a new experience and things can, and probably will, improve. Remember, you are not alone. Thousands of other students have faced the same uncertainties you may be facing. Hang on to that positive attitude. It makes a difference.
 Learn how to be assertive yet tactful. If you don’t, others may take advantage of you. If it’s difficult for you to stand up for yourself, take assertiveness workshops. Your counseling center probably offers workshops that can teach you to stand up for your rights in a way that respects the rights of others.
 Be proud of your heritage. No matter what your heritage is, you may hear ugly remarks and witness or be the target of bigotry caused by ignorance or fear. Stand tall. Be proud. Refuse to tolerate disrespect. Remember that most of the college population embraces tolerance.