Chelsey Kelly, Boston University student.

College Crash Course
The Inside Scoop

By Chelsey Kelly, college student

Whether you're leaving for college in September or just taking your SATs, the college-planning crunch can make you a little loony. But what can you really expect when you make your move toward those ivy-covered towers? The STUDIO 2B team asked Boston University student Chelsey Kelly to give us a reality check on what college life is like.

College will probably be the first time you are totally in control of your destiny. That's great? Of course! But being on your own involves more than just sleeping whenever you want. It means making such decisions as when and how to do laundry and figuring out what classes to take and what groups to be part of. But it's good that you get to make the choice.

Here's what you need to know before you go.

You'll change. And your friends at home will too. Don't be surprised when after the first few months, phone calls become less frequent and you have less to talk about with your friends. You're doing new things, and they probably are, too. Sometimes friendships drift apart because they have to.

No need to bring it all with you on the first day. No matter where you go to school, I'm sure there will be some place to buy a trash can and stapler. And it makes moving in so much easier if you haven't relocated your entire room.

Don't label yourself. Throw out everything that has "Welcome Class of 200_." There's no need to give obvious clues that you're a first-year student. Wearing stuff that shouts out your hometown or your high school football team gives a sign that you may not be ready to move forward to new experiences.

Choose your classes wisely. Ask juniors or seniors their advice about good classes to take and classes and professors to stay away from. No matter what anyone says, don't just take all the easy courses. Challenge yourself, and explore your interests. Find out what really makes you excited, and go with it. You might end up majoring in something you never thought you would.

Spend time in another country. Look into study abroad programs. Most schools require junior or senior standing, but start looking early. Arrange your schedule so that you are able to go once you have the standing. Study abroad programs look great on job applications and can really help you out in the real world.

Learn how to pace yourself. There's going to be a lot of parties and socializing. Enjoy your new social scene, but don't overdo it. You won't enjoy any of it if you get kicked out of school for poor grades.

Savor each moment. The college years go by much faster than you could ever imagine. Once you leave for school, nothing is really the same any more—even your family will change and, most importantly, you will change. You will grow into a person with her own mind, her own desires, and her own thoughts. So stop worrying about trying to get into your top school, and start dreaming about what your college experience can be.