College is an exciting time for everyone, especially those who are new to the world of higher education. It can be overwhelming at times as you transition into the new role and responsibilities of being a student. In order to help ease the transition, it’s important to treat the summer before your freshman year of college as the calm before the storm.

Listed below are some things you should consider doing during your last summer before college.

Familiarize Yourself With Your Campus

Visiting your college campus during the summer is a great way to get a feel for the school before feeling lost on your first day. Many colleges will provide guided tours during the summer months.  Getting a feel for the campus and the various dining locations and classrooms can help ease some of the stress that you’re feeling during your first day of classes. 

Take a College Prep Course

Some students take preparatory classes to prepare them for the rigors of college. Others can take courses at their local community college. These are designed to introduce them to the college’s curriculum and prepare them for the rigors of study.

Connect With Your Roommate

Before you start dorm life, it’s important that you establish a connection with your future roommates. This will allow you to coordinate the various supplies and decor in your room. Having a friend will help ease the transition into college. You can also utilize this time to set expectations for your living arrangements.

Go Through Your Clothes

Before you move into college, it’s also important to clear out your space and prepare for the new life. If you’re planning on living in a dorm, it’s important to consider how you can limit the number of items that you bring. Going through your closet is a great place to begin.

Spend Your Last Moments With Friends and Family

During the summer, it’s also important to spend time with family and friends before moving to college. Even if you’re not planning on traveling far for school, it’s still important to spend some time with your loved ones before life gets busy. It’s additionally a great time to start establishing a network of support.

Get Your Financing Finalized

Before the first day of classes, students should pay their tuition and fees. They should also plan their payment schedule and finalize their financing in order to avoid unexpected expenses. It’s important to have a clear understanding of how you’ll pay for college, including how you’ll cover all of your expenses, such as tuition, books, and scholarships.