College: 5 things NOT to do your first week on campus

A college student shares her advice on how to make sure you have a good college experience.

1. Live online
Chatting online with high school friends or using Skype to see a familiar face from back home is all well and good, but don’t overdo it. Do your best to avoid the temptations of social networking sites like Facebook and make some real life memories.

2. Be picky about plans
You might not find your best friends right away, but don’t let that stop you from going out to find them. It’s important to get out and meet your classmates while everyone is still as new to campus as you, so even if you’re not in love with the group — go!

3. Keep your door closed
During the first week, keeping your dorm door open is an easy way to let hallmates come in and meet you.

4. Buy out the bookstore  
It’s tempting to buy anything and everything with your school’s name, but it’s not something you want to be known for. There’s always one overzealous frosh that students can count on to be decked out in college swag from head to toe on any given day — don’t be that guy.

5. Wait to get a job on campus
Returning students know how important it is to lock down a job as soon as possible, mostly from learning the hard way their freshman year. The best work-study gigs are limited and go fast, so don’t put it off.