Getting through college can be tough. From freshman to senior year there will always be bumps in the road and stress to throw you off. Here are some tips to help you survive the school year.

1. Look over the syllabus. It may seem like just a waste of paper, but it’s not. Many professors put a tentative schedule on the syllabus or dates for a large project. Having this right in front of you will help throughout the semester.

2. Jump on your Graduate Check. This one is for seniors and juniors, but it never hurts to be on top of things. Get it done right away. Talk to your advisor and triple check. Otherwise you might find out too late that you’re missing a handful of boring generals or crucial classes for your major.

3. Join clubs. Aim for at least two related to your major.  It’s a great chance to meet people and get some free food now and then. Plus you might meet an elder, a.k.a. senior, who will have wisdom beyond your years. For seniors, this is your chance to mentor.

4. Don’t spend all your overage check at once. When winter comes, you might need that money to buy a sled or more Ramen Noodles to survive your hibernation.

5. Have fun. Nothing could be more important. It helps to de-stress, work out, and just fool around before homework takes over the rest of your time.

And here are some tips for life in the Residence Halls:

1. Get to know your neighbors. It really helps to have a sense of community.  Not to mention you can go borrow a can opener instead of running to Walmart for one. And don’t forget to make friends with all the RA’s in the dorm. It might help when you have to go to them to get their residents to keep quiet.

2. Less is more. You may feel like you need to bring everything from home, but it can get pretty cluttered, especially with a roommate. Plus if you live far away, being able to pack up all your stuff in one car may save your parents a pricy move-out trip.

3. Team up with friends or roommates for furniture. Maybe one of you gets a fridge, the other a tv. You bring the Xbox, your friend brings a toaster. No need for everyone to have a complete collection of appliances, especially on a college budget.