10 College Resolutions

10. Keep the Bills in Check

Running up your phone bill—whether on your cell or in the dorm—is one of the easiest things to do in college; so is blowing off classes you’ve paid good money for. Watch your spending in 2010 and stay frugal. You’ll thank yourself down the road!

9. Buy Used Whenever Possible

Skip anything unnecessary, and for anything you absolutely must have, see if you can get it used or free first. I could kick myself for the dumb stuff I charged on my student account.

8. Put Your Studies First…Or Close to First

There’s no question that family comes first, but rushing, clubbing, and drinking should all not be a close second (or even fifth). These things are fun, and can be a part of an enjoyable social life—but you’re paying hard earned money for this degree, so remember that when it’s time to study.

7. Meet Regularly with Your Advisor

This could be the best thin you do during your undergraduate career. If he or she is very accessible and open, make the best of it!

6. Use Faculty Hours

I can’t stress this one enough. Go and see your professor about assignment problems, questions, writing assignments—or even to drop by if he or she isn’t busy. Chances are you’ll not only pick up something useful you might not have in class—you’ll also foster a strong relationship you can use when it’s time for recommendation letters.

5. Use Every Resource on Campus

Even if you think you don’t need it, why not try it out? The campus writing center, the fitness center, the pool, the library—you’re paying for it, so get your money’s worth. You’ll probably be quite surprised to find that many of these resources are just what you need.

4. Take Pictures

Take them as often as you can; you’ll wish you had if you don’t.

3. Be Sociable

This isn’t negating #8—your studies come before your social life!—but it’s also important to get into that special niche of friends that many people make in college. How else are you going to get a best man, after all?

2. Get a Minor

Especially get one if you’ve already met a bunch of the requirements. It’ll look good and be nearly work-free.

1. Go to Class!

This might seem simple enough, but plenty of students blow off class because they think they can get by without attending. This is often false—and even when it’s not, it makes you look bad and miss out on stuff that—again—you are paying for. If you can’t make an 8:00, don’t sign up for it.