Go to class. Even if you are allowed a certain number of "skips," don't take them, or at least hold on to them for a while. That way if you get sick you won't be out of luck. Plus, many professors have a "participation" grade, which is basically a free grade if you are in class. If you skip, you've just automatically lost easy, easy points.
Always, always, always talk to your professors. If you will miss class, send an email. If you are sick, let them know. If you will miss a test, ask if you can take it early. The most important part of this is letting the professor know BEFORE you miss. It doesn't matter what your reason for missing is—didn't feel like coming to class, illness, death of a family member—you need to remember that your professor doesn't care why. That's not his or her problem. (this is not to say professors don't care about their students, just that they have rules and guidelines that they follow). After the fact it is unlikely that you will get any sympathy. However, by asking beforehand, letting the professor know what's going on, and keeping him or her informed, you are more likely to receive grace.
Take advantage of the services your campus offers: Library, computers, dining hall (as unappealing as it may sound, most first year students are required to have some sort of on-campus meal plan, so you might as well make the best of it and save your money for something else, like books, however having a few snacks in your room is great for when the main entree is broccoli fish divan or mystery meat), health services, counseling, career counseling/guidance, etc.
Set ground rules with your roommate when you first start living together. Don't wait for conflict before discussing things. Be on your best behavior and treat said roommate the way you want to be treated. With respect. Respect each other's space, belongings, and feelings.
Choose friends wisely. Don't be tempted to fall in with the party/drinking crowd. Staying up all night and getting drunk do not make it easy to go to class or get assignments/studying done.
Do the assignments and assigned reading. Again, possible "free" points. Many professors just count these as "turned in" or "not turned in."
Don't bother with late work. Organize yourself and your time in such a manner that you are able to get your assignments done in a timely manner. And then TURN THEM IN. Most professors do not accept late assignments anyway, so again, you've lost points. Pointlessly.
What I wish I had known before college? Always wear flip-flops in the showers! Sometimes it seems like a competition to see who can be the busiest. Don’t feel the need to join a million organizations and groups. Not having time to sleep does not mean that you’re an incredibly important, just incredibly tired. Really, really tired.
What was the best advice I got while I was in college? Don’t miss an opportunity for a good internship! If your school has a career services department, take advantage of them as much as you can. Their connections and advice might help more than any academic advisor as you figure out your calling. Take classes outside your major that aren’t 101 courses – it’s worth the challenge. My college’s unofficial motto was, “Look to your left, look to right, your future mate might be in sight!” Some of the best advice I ever got was to ignore that. Cultivate friendships with groups who share your interests, passions, and especially faith, and you’ll make lifetime friends. College grads constantly reminded me to cherish the spontaneous moments that come from living with your best friends in dorm and college apartment life. College is probably the only time you’ll have so many friends in such close proximity, so invest in the relationships and be thankful.
