Words of wisdom for college students

By Bernard Freeman

Start a Business in College

We have all seen the success stories from college dropouts who went on to be CEOs of gigantic companies. However, there are many business leaders who began promoting and developing their company while they were still hitting the books.

There are many advantages to testing the waters while you’re still studying. For one, putting your ideas out to the world is less risky during college as the financial demands will be less before you have a mortgage or family. You’re also in a large group of community-minded people who are much easier to reach by promoting on social media, posting flyers in high-trafficked areas and word of mouth.

Gain Real-World Education

A classroom is a great place to set the roots for your journey as an entrepreneur, however, you can only learn so much in that environment. Take what you’ve learned and put it to use in the real world to get a feel as to how people are responding. While in college, you also have access to professors who are knowledgeable in business. Consider having a discussion to determine which methods you use aren’t working and how to improve them.

Don’t be discouraged if your first idea doesn’t take off – college is about trying new things and reaching different people.

Don’t be Afraid of Failure

Each step you take towards introducing an epic business is in the right direction for your overall experience. Don’t be discouraged if your ideas don’t flourish. Instead, highlight your resume with your innovations and drive you used while starting a business in college.

Be a Responsible Student

After graduating high school, the thought of college courses and a shift in lifestyle can be intimidating. One thing to remember is that there are many other people on campus who are facing the same challenges.

Especially if you are attending college miles away from your support team at home, it can be easy to become distracted and lose self-discipline. You should understand how these upcoming changes can negatively impact your goal of achieving the degree you dreamed of.

Dangers of Party Atmosphere

College life sometimes gets a bad reputation as being a party. In fact, some reputable news outlets and school publications reveal a top 10 list of America’s Best Party Schools each year. While you will benefit from networking with your peers, be sure to keep academics as your No. 1 priority.

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, these dangers associated with drinking in college affect those ages 18 to 24.

More than 1,800 students died yearly from alcohol-related unintentional injuries, on average, between 1998-2005.
About 696,000 students are assaulted by a peer who has been drinking, on average, between 1998-2001.
About 97,000 students report experiencing alcohol-related sexual assault during the same period.

The key to staying safe in college is to drink responsibly and moderately. The Addiction Center says many students turn to binge drinking due to stress, anxiety, a desire to fit in and insecurity.

If you feel like you have developed a drinking problem, call the Addiction and Alcohol Hotline at (844) 244-3171.

Associate with Like-Minded Peers

One way to avoid temptations and focus on academics is by associating with peers with similar goals. Find other students to form study groups and develop ways to benefit the community and campus. If you keep your eyes on the prize and celebrate achievements in moderation, the transition from high school to college will be seamless.

Stay Safe on Campus

Everyone deserves the right to feel safe while gaining an education, however, emergencies are bound to occur.

A great way to stay safe while walking on campus is to travel with a group, especially while it’s dark. According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, there were 27,000 reports of criminal incidents against persons and property on campus in 2014. If you must make a trip without the company of friends, it can be a good idea to arm yourself with pepper spray and a whistle. If you feel like you are threatened, making a scene can dissuade a potential assaulter into fleeing or draw attention from nearby help.