Use these hacks to make college just a little easier.
1. Save face by taking a picture of your course schedule.
If you’re worried about whipping out your course schedule and looking lost in the midst of upperclassmen, take a picture of your schedule so that it just looks like you’re checking your phone.
2. Download college-related apps for study help and class information on the go.
There are helpful apps to use during studying that shut down any distractions on your phone for a set time (because procrastination is no joke). You can also check to see if your college offers an app to track your classes and grades, important deadlines, and more!
3. Use the personal assistant already in your pocket or purse—your phone!
Have trouble staying organized? Set reminders on your phone, and use the alerts as prompts, to keep track of deadlines, tests, practices, student club meetings, or even just a reminder to call home once in a while! Don’t feel like typing that all in? Just ask Siri to do it for you.
4. Help out your wallet by using FREE transportation.
When you’re running low on gas money, take advantage of your college’s free shuttles to places like the grocery store, mall, movies and restaurants, and more!
5. Score free food around campus.
Spice up your meal plan (and maybe save some dough) by scoping out upcoming events and programs on campus to see where you can score free food. Free popcorn and a movie? Check. Free pizza an—shh … you had us at free pizza.
6. Trade in your Netflix or Hulu subscriptions for a good ol’ fashioned library card.
Save on subscriptions by taking out a DVD from the library. BONUS: Make somebody else do the legwork for you by chatting online with library staff to ask what’s available BEFORE you go!
7. Get yourself a trusty travel mug.
Why limit your cup of coffee to the caf? Bring a travel mug so you can extend your caffeine consumption throughout the day. Want to switch it up? Cool down a cup in your travel mug by adding ice ... and maybe some chocolate syrup?
8. Go to the head of the class in one easy step.
Getting up in front of the class to present is enough to worry about. Arrange for a classmate to ask you a question that you already know the answer to. Breathe a little easier knowing you know have a friend in the class ready to throw you a lifeline.
9. Repurpose the school newspaper for impromptu gift wrap.
When you’re short on time and cash, pick up your free school newspaper to use to wrap that gift for your roomie.
10. Use your ID card to show you’re kind of a big deal.
Who cares what that photo looks like—carry around your student ID for discounts on just about everything including clothing, movies, even transportation. PLUS see what discounts are available from your student activities office.