What should I know how to do before going to college?

I'm a junior in high school and feeling a bit anxious about college life. What kinds of skills, especially everyday ones, should I make sure to learn before heading off to college? Any tips on making the transition smoother?

Transitioning to college life is definitely an exciting time, and it's great that you're thinking about what you can do to ease into it more comfortably. There are a few key life skills that can especially useful:

1) Budgeting and Personal Finance: Understanding how to manage your own finances is a critical skill. This involves creating a budget, tracking your expenses, paying bills, and being mindful of your spending.

2) Cooking and Basic Nutrition: It might be easy to rely on dining hall meals or takeout, but knowing how to cook simple, nutritious meals is beneficial, both for your health and your wallet.

3) Time Management: College classes often require much more independent study time than high school classes. Being able to create (and stick to) a study schedule can help ensure you're adequately prepared for tests and assignments.

4) Laundry and Cleaning: If you're not already used to doing your own laundry or cleaning, practice these skills before you leave. It's a basic task that will be important in maintaining a good living environment.

5) Self-Advocacy: Learning to advocate for yourself is key. If you need help, know how to reach out to professors, advisors, or support services on your own.

6) Basic Health and Wellness: Understanding how to take care of yourself when you're ill, how to manage any medications you take, and how to make appointments at a doctor's office or health center are useful skills.

It can be helpful to practice these skills while you're still at home. For example, you could start cooking one meal per week, or take over your own laundry. Don't worry if you don't master everything before you arrive on campus, college is a time for growing and learning, and you won't be the only one figuring things out!