Making the Transition

You’ve done it. You’ve secured your spot at an institution, and now it’s time to get ready for what’s next. Don’t worry, you won’t have to figure this out on your own. Once you’re accepted, most colleges will provide you with detailed next steps on joining the college community and will give you everything you need to know about how to register for classes, buy your books, move onto campus and all the things you’ll need. Most schools will have an orientation week before classes start. Be on the lookout for any other special events that can help you get to know your school. You can always talk to your admissions counselor with any questions you have.

Preparing for Dorm Life

If you’re planning to live on campus, make sure you’ve thought about what you’ll want in your dorm to make it feel like home. Don’t stop at bedding, clothes and decorations, either — make sure you have necessities like laundry detergent, a shower caddy and storage options. Tour your dorm ahead of time, if you can.

Skills You’ll Need

Your time management skills will be put to the test in college. You should probably choose a calendar or planner, and once you know your class schedule, block out time each week to dedicate to studying. Also, try to think about habits you want to cultivate, especially when it comes to caring for yourself physically, emotionally and spiritually. Learn how to do laundry and other life skills you might need. Know where to get help from academics to health and wellness — look into academic success centers, student health services, counseling centers, career services and more.

Prepare for Life Away from Home

When you move to a new city, you might experience culture shock or feel like a fish out of water as you adjust. Take the time to research the area in which your school is located so that you can find out how to get around with public transportation or a car, how to get to local grocery stores or dining spots, and what to pack in light of the weather. Research the cultural and recreational experiences you can do and the places you can explore on the weekends. Make sure you’re familiar with common safety practices, especially for evening hours and off-campus activities. Check out the Choosing a College in Southern California section for more details on living in Los Angeles.

Savor the Moments

Life will change once you go to college, because you’ll change and so will your friends and family. Make memories with the people you love. Give yourself permission to experience the emotions that come with big life changes. Don’t fight to keep things the way they’ve always been — embrace change and let God continue shaping the people and relationships in your life. They’re becoming something new, just like you.

Spend Time with God

Adjusting will likely be difficult at times. God will be constant in the lonely moments, the homesick moments, the confusing moments, the awkward moments. Lean in. He is our Refuge, and he can be trusted to take care of you.

Celebrate

This is a beautiful, new, exciting beginning. You’re going to meet people and encounter ideas that will quite literally change your life. So celebrate. Enjoy this season. And congratulations — you’ve made it.

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Biola University

Biola University is a top-ranked Christian university located in Southern California that is dedicated to cultivating belonging and helping students journey towards who they were created to become. Biola offers 40+ robust, biblically integrated majors and is home to the Torrey Honors College, a nationally leading honors program for students of all majors centered on reading, discussion and mentorship. STEM students can also apply to the Stewart Honors Program to conduct and publish research through paid internships with faculty mentors in brand-new, state-of-the-art facilities. Discover how Biola is equipping men and women in mind and character to impact the world for the Lord Jesus Christ.

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