14 Tips for Going Away to College

Well, it's that time of year again. Those “kids” are all grown up and taking that next big step out into the world – college. And many of them will be leaving home for the first time to go away to school and take on the challenge all by themselves. Here are some tips to help them adjust:

1. Decide the kind of person you want to be before you go, and stick to it. You have to stand for something or you’ll fall for anything. Of course you need to go with an open mind and be willing to learn and try new things, but do it without compromising your ethics, morals, or your dignity. Remember, if you aren't shaping the world, it’s shaping you.


2. Make friends that have the same values as you do, even if that means not settling for the first group of friends you meet. In new situations, we often cling to the first group of people that notice us - don't. Get to know people that are different than you, but make sure the people you build friendships with are people who share your values and will make you a better person.


3. Schedule your classes early. Or at least have something in the morning that you need to be awake for most days of the week. Otherwise, it is likely that you will be up late every night wasting time - or finding trouble. Don't spend these valuable years of your life sleeping in. There's nothing wrong with staying up late every once in awhile and hanging out with friends, but have a routine that gets you up in the morning.


4. Get regularly involved with at least one, good Catholic organization. It is very beneficial to have an activity during the week - besides mass on Sundays - where we interact with other Catholics. It keeps us grounded in our faith, gives us an automatic support group of people with the same values, and motivates us to learn or think about our faith in a new way during the week.


5. Don’t believe that everyone has pre-marital sex and that it’s no big deal as long as you’re a “good” person. It still is a big deal, contrary to popular opinion. There has been no repeal on this commandment from God – it is a very serious sin. What has happened is that we are a weak culture who has enabled each other to believe that it is “OK.” That's not an excuse. Trust God. And if you are struggling with this, learn more about your faith, and check out John Paul II's “Theology of the Body.” It will really open your eyes and give you a better understanding and strength to persevere.


6. Get involved. Join a club and run for an office. If there isn’t a club you are interested in, start one of your own! This is a very unique time in your life to take on new challenges, meet new people, and better yourself. Once you graduate, opportunities like that get more difficult because our focus becomes our work, family and children (depending on your vocation of course). Take advantage of this time. It also helps build character and other skills useful for after you graduate.


7. Call your parents and your best friend at least once a week - if not more. It’s easy for the whole “out of sight, out of mind” thing to kick in when you get busy and caught up in your new life in college. Don’t forget about your family - they are an important foundation in every stage of life. Keep them updated with all of the things you are involved with and include them as much as possible – even if you don’t feel like it sometimes.


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