Happy Retro Day and congratulations to all of you who are graduating (or have graduated) this year! For those of you who have chosen to continue your education, this week’s article has some great tips for you. Enjoy! ~ Halee

by Maddee Schrader

Seniors: pay attention. Most of you have a month until that glorious day when you’ll fling off graduation caps. By now you’ve probably made plans about college. As summer sets in, invading your mind with thoughts of sand and sun, it tends to overwhelm those university-related musings. After all, it’s the last summer. Next year you’ll be worrying about dorm rooms and fall schedules.

That’s okay – enjoy summer. Take a trip with your family. Relax. Remember to slather on that 30+ SPF sunscreen. But don’t forget that your life is changing in a few months. You might consider setting aside a day each month to check on college-related stuff. There are a few issues you should check on.

Room assignments – If you’re living on campus, have you gotten a room assignment yet? Some universities will provide you with your roommates’ e-mail addresses, so you can get to know each other over the summer. If you have any questions about living on campus, e-mail the housing director at your school.

Freshman orientation –each school handles this differently, but most will have a week in the summer or right before classes start to introduce you to campus life. Check your college’s website to see when this is. If there are multiple sessions, sign up for one and make note of the date.

Class schedule – get a catalog and find out what classes you’re going to take this Fall. Most schools have a core set of classes you have to take, like basic sciences and freshman English. It’s a good idea to start with some of these basics. Also, check online to see when you can register for classes – some colleges integrate this with orientation. You’ll make an advisor’s day if you come prepared with a list of classes you want to take.

Don’t take a vacation from God – relaxing is a great thing sometimes, but it’s tempting to slack off on your relationship with God. You’re about to embark on a huge adventure this fall. Read the roadmap of the Word. Keep praying for wisdom and guidance.

Don’t make the mistake of getting overwhelmed by college. If you have your foundation in God, you’re set. He’ll watch out for you. You can go cruising in California or hiking in Hawaii or touring in Texas this summer. Just don’t forget that sunscreen.