As we near the final weeks of the summer, many fresh high school graduates are preparing for their departure to college. Whether they are venturing to a university in another state or attending a community college near home, there are many pieces of advice incoming freshmen should know. Coming from a rising junior nursing student, there are three key areas to be aware of before starting school: academic success, polishing life skills, and embracing growth and adaptation.

As students begin this new chapter of their lives, many are striving to achieve academic success. However, the study habits that worked in high school may not be enough for the demands of college. Every student learns differently, so finding study strategies that fit their individual learning style is essential. One tip I wish I had been given is to review the syllabus before the semester begins. It provides an overview of the course, including important assignments, exam dates, professor contact information, and other expectations. Just as important is self-accountability. The effort students put into their education directly impacts what they gain from it, making it essential to dedicate the necessary time and effort to succeed.

Aside from the building blocks of academic success, independence is another crucial aspect to consider before attending college. As rising freshmen prepare to leave the nest, many of the responsibilities once handled by their guardians will now fall on their shoulders. Being a “broke college student” has become a commonly used phrase, but learning to budget and prioritize essential expenses can help students avoid unnecessary financial stress. Saving money can also provide a greater sense of security throughout the school year. Just as important as financial responsibility is prioritizing sleep and overall health. With busy schedules and demanding workloads, students may be tempted to sacrifice sleep, but doing so can take a toll on both their physical and academic well-being.

Beyond academics and independence, college is an opportunity for students to grow, adapt to new environments, and build a community that supports them along the way. At just eighteen years old, many students feel pressured to know what they want to do for the rest of their lives and who they want to become. Luckily, this is far from reality. College is a time for personal growth, creating new friendships, learning to ask for help, and allowing yourself to change your mind. After two years of college, I have experienced new things, met countless people, and grown into a better version of myself. Embracing these changes can help students build a supportive community while developing a brighter outlook on their future. Above all, remember that college is not about having everything figured out—it is about discovering who you are along the way.

Best of luck to all incoming freshmen. You are about to begin an incredible chapter of your life, so embrace the challenges, cherish the memories, and enjoy the journey.

Heidi Swan-Leuze graduated from Southwestern Central School and is now a rising junior at St. John Fisher University, where she is pursuing a degree in nursing. She enjoys spending quality time with her friends and family and recently had the opportunity to study abroad in Limerick, Ireland, during the spring semester. While abroad, she immersed herself in Irish culture, traveled throughout the country and beyond, and met people from all over the world. Heidi is the daughter of Sean and Jennifer Swan-Leuze.

For many incoming high school seniors and their families, fall is a season of campus visits, college applications, financial aid forms, and big decisions. But rather than asking “What college can I get into?” a better question may be, “Where will I be most successful?”

Whether you have been researching colleges for the past year or are just getting started, here are five things to consider in your college search.

1. Find the right fit.

College rankings and reputation can provide insight into how a college can help you meet your career goals, but they don’t tell the whole story. It’s important to consider the environment where you will thrive. As you research colleges, ask the following questions:

What are the class sizes? Will you be in a classroom with 20 other students, or a lecture hall with 200? Look for information about the faculty-to-student ratio.

Do professors teach all the classes, or are there graduate students or teaching assistants who work with students?

What opportunities are available, and when can students take advantage of them? Ask about specifics that may be important to you, such as campus life, study abroad, or research opportunities.

What student supports, such as tutoring, counseling, and career services, are provided, and how can you access them?

Do you feel comfortable and safe on campus?

Is your major offered? As wonderful as a college may be, if it doesn’t offer the program you’re looking for, it won’t help you reach your post-graduation goals.

2. Know the true costs.

Often, discussions about college costs center on tuition. But tuition is only one part of the equation. Students and families should also consider expenses that can vary significantly among colleges.

Get information on fees, housing, and meal plans for each college you’re considering.

Factor in books, supplies, and transportation or parking expenses to get a clearer picture of the true cost of each college.

If a college offers you a scholarship, ask whether that money will only offset the cost of tuition, or whether it can also help with other expenses you may incur.

It’s also important to note that cost and quality are not always connected when it comes to college. College costs vary greatly, usually due to how the institution is funded. Private colleges rely on tuition and donors to fund their operations. State University of New York (SUNY) four-year institutions receive funding from the state to help offset costs, and SUNY community colleges receive additional funding from counties to lower costs to students even further.

3. Many pathways can lead to the same goal.

If you have a specific end goal in mind, it’s a good idea to explore all the possible routes to that degree or career. If your goal is a bachelor’s degree, consider starting at a two-year college to earn an associate’s degree and transferring to a four-year college to earn your bachelor’s degree. Community colleges often have lower tuition, personalized student support services, and opportunities for internships, leadership experiences, and study abroad programs. Some students find that gaining work experience while attending college full- or part-time helps them clarify or accelerate their career goals. Remember that success isn’t determined by where you start. It’s determined by what you do with the opportunities available to you.

4. It’s okay to be undecided.

Sometimes it may seem like everyone else has it all figured out. But if you don’t know which college you want to attend, what to major in, or what career you want ten years from now, that is perfectly normal. A lot of pressure and stress is put on making these decisions in the senior year. While you do need to decide, you are not locked into every choice forever. About one in three college students changes their major at least once, according to the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics.

Ask colleges what resources are available to help undecided students find their path. Career counseling, academic advising, and job shadowing can all help students find a path that fits their strengths and interests.

5. Get a head start on college now.

Dual enrollment, which allows students to take college courses while still in high school, has expanded significantly in recent years. These opportunities can help students save money, earn college credit, experience college-level coursework, and refine decisions about a major or career path before graduating high school.

Most local high schools offer dual enrollment opportunities to students as early as their sophomore year. For seniors who have already met most of their high school graduation requirements, ask if an early dismissal to go to a nearby college to take classes is an option. Some colleges, including Jamestown Community College, offer grants that help offset the cost of tuition for high school students. Colleges also offer online courses, providing additional flexibility for students who may have difficulty traveling to campus.

No two college journeys look exactly alike, and that’s okay. The best college choice is the one that aligns with your goals, learning style, financial circumstances, and future aspirations. As you explore your options, keep an open mind, ask questions, and focus on finding the path that is right for you.

Jade Barber is the Director of High School Partnerships at Jamestown Community College. As a former undecided college student, she has spent the past 15 years helping students and families make the transition from high school to college.

DO go to office hours, ESPECIALLY if you are struggling in the class. High school teachers and college professors are NOT the same. Your professors will not chase you down if they notice your grades are slipping. It’s on you to go to them or the TA for extra guidance. The time spent in office hours shows professors that you are trying even though you may still be struggling to grasp the concepts. When you go to professors, they may be able to explain the material in a different way that allows you to better understand the material.

DON’T go out on weekdays (excluding Fridays, of course) if you know you have obligations the following day. Be smart about when you choose to go out and when you choose to stay in and study, and/or work on a project or homework.

DO involve yourself in clubs and extracurricular activities. Joining clubs is a great way to make new friends and get connected with your new community. See what your university/college offers, and if there isn't one that interests you, make a new one!

DON’T miss class just for a few extra hours of sleep. As a freshman you will most likely have an 8 am lecture, recitation, or lab. I know I thought college meant getting away from those 8 am classes, but that is usually not the case your first year.

DO prioritize your sleep. Some of your friends may want to “study” til the sun comes up… but your schedule is filled with upcoming exams and an 8 am the next morning. Getting 8 hours of sleep may seem unrealistic, but you have to find a way to balance your busy schedule because it will make a world of difference in your mood and in your ability to focus in class and have productive study hours.

DON'T change yourself for other people. The people you attract are drawn to you because of who you are, not who you are trying to be. You also don't have the time to focus on changing yourself; the majority of your energy should be put into your schoolwork. You can always find your people; you just have to take the initiative to seek them out.

Alexis Grijalva graduated from Southwestern Central School and now attends Niagara University as a rising junior. Alexis is pursuing a Psychology major along with a minor in Chemistry while competing as a student-athlete on the university track and field team. She aspires to follow in her parents footsteps and work in the medical field. She enjoys traveling as well as spending time with family and friends. She currently works at Chautauqua institution as a cocktail server in the Athenaeum Hotel and at the Carlberg Farm Produce stand. Her parents are Sheron and Galo Grijalva. Her father is a general surgeon at UPMC Chautauqua and her mother is a nurse in the process of getting back to work.