How to get ahead before classes begin

Starting college is an exciting new adventure filled with opportunities to learn, grow, and meet new people. While the first few weeks bring plenty of new experiences—from finding your classrooms to settling into a new routine—a little preparation can help you feel confident from day one. In a recent episode of Countdown2College, Gage spoke with Abby Roskos, program coordinator at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, about simple ways students can prepare before the semester starts, build strong academic habits, and create routines that set them up for success.

What should I do after receiving my class schedule?

Your class schedule is more than a list of courses. It’s the foundation for planning the rest of your week. Abby recommends looking beyond your class times and thinking about how you’ll use the hours in between. Consider when you’ll eat meals, study, exercise, and get enough sleep. As professors begin posting syllabi and course information, review those materials early so you know what to expect before the first day of class.

What habits should I build before the semester gets busy?

Successful students don’t wait until assignments start piling up to get organized. One of the best ways to stay ahead is to review each course syllabus and create your own plan for key deadlines, rather than relying on automatic reminders. Keeping track of upcoming assignments, quizzes, and exams early on can help you stay organized and avoid feeling overwhelmed as the semester progresses.

What should I expect during my first few weeks?

Many new students are surprised by how much unstructured time they have compared to high school. Instead of following a full day of scheduled classes, you’ll spend more time deciding where to study, how to manage your time, and what to do between classes. Abby explains that this adjustment takes time, so don’t expect to have everything figured out immediately. The first few weeks are about learning what routines work best for you and becoming more comfortable with your new environment.

How is learning different in college?

One of the biggest differences between high school and college is that you’ll take greater ownership of your learning. While professors provide lectures, assignments, and course expectations, it’s up to you to decide how you’ll study and prepare outside the classroom. Every student learns differently, so take time to discover which study methods help you retain information and stay engaged with the material.

What can I do now to set myself up for success?

Preparing before classes begin doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple steps can make the transition much smoother:

• Review each course syllabus.
• Add important deadlines to your calendar.
• Build a realistic weekly schedule.
• Set aside regular study time.
• Learn where to find academic support on campus.

Starting with these habits can help you feel more confident before your workload grows.

When should I ask for help?

If you’re struggling, don’t wait until you’re falling behind. Abby encourages students to ask for help early, even if they’re not sure where to start. Professors, academic advisors, tutoring centers, and office hours all exist to support students throughout the semester. Reaching out early often makes it easier to solve small challenges before they become larger ones.

How do I balance academics with college life?

College is about more than attending classes. It’s also a chance to explore new interests, meet people, and discover opportunities outside the classroom. Abby recommends joining a few organizations that align with both your academic goals and personal interests, while keeping in mind that your commitments can change over time. Building a schedule that reflects your priorities and allows time for both work and fun creates a more balanced college experience.

What’s the most important thing to remember before classes begin?

No one starts college with everything figured out. The first semester is a learning experience, and it’s okay if your routines change as you adjust. Abby’s biggest takeaway is to know that you belong, you can succeed, and there are people across campus who want to help you along the way. By staying organized, asking questions, and using the resources available to you, you’ll be ready to make the most of your first semester.