How to Survive College: Declassified

For roughly 17 years, we have been students, perhaps with part-time jobs here and there. The transition from full-time student to full-time adult (also known as post-grad) brings with it taxes, bills, and paying the full rate for Spotify Premium. But graduation opens a new door into adulting with its own set of adventures. Three years removed from college, Caleb Murray has some tips and tricks for making it as full-time adults. Join my older brother and me as we declassify the biggest surprises and challenges of post-grad life, and how to embrace those changes.

Location, location, location does not only apply to real estate. In fact, location is a big consideration when it comes to choosing a college. How far away from your dog can you be? How close to your ex is too close? Crossing state lines can feel daunting, but you may have to jump a few to find your home away from home. Elecktra Gallegos is 7-8 hours from where she grew up, but she has found ways to make college feel like home. Join Elecktra and me as we declassify how to know if you’re ready to move out of state, how to make college feel like home, and what parents can do to help that transition.

There’s a saying I heard a few times before going to college: a college student needs three things: sleep, friends, and time for school work…but only has time for two. Trying to juggle all three is virtually unattainable. But Darcy Hsieh, a Resident Advisor, student ambassador, busy English and Communication double major, and occasional intramural basketballer, has found a way to balance all three: 18 credit semesters, being a campus celebrity, and refilling her cup with rest. Join Darcy and me as we declassify the importance of being busy, strategies for not overfilling your plate, and the productivity of rest.

College is a time of great maturity. Just as we mature outwardly, so should our faith. We cannot stay as baby Christians forever, but that doesn’t mean it is easy. Reyna Beckwith, a BCM attendee turned amazing girls’ group leader, understands these struggles. Reyna is full of advice on how to keep moving forward in faith, even when it doesn’t feel like you’re going anywhere. Join Reyna and me as we declassify the importance of campus ministries, the local church, and the reason behind why we should try at all (hint: the answer is Jesus).

We would bet that you’ve heard the question “What do you want to do with the rest of your life?” more times than not. Whether you're a high school senior or a college senior, the pressure to know exactly what you’re going to do and where you’re going to go can feel overwhelming. No one understands this pressure like Mei Hui de Velasco. After changing her major three times before settling into psychology, and still being eligible to graduate early, Mei Hui is full of advice on how to decide which major best fits your gifts. Join Mei Hui and me as we declassify the stigma around choosing the perfect major and how you can know if yours is the right fit.

Transitioning to college often means leaving friends behind and building relationships anew. Regardless of size, it’s daunting to step on a college campus and only know yourself. Hayley Goodwin knows this feeling. She transferred in as a sophomore, determined to form her own community. She had in mind the types of things she wanted to do, and expanded her horizons to find many avenues of building community. She now serves as an RA, a Cru student leader, a videographer, an admissions representative, and a busy communication student. She is one of the most connected people on campus, always ready with a smile and engaging conversation. Join Hayley and me as we declassify the importance of community and offer advice on how to build it, starting with the people on your hall.