As the last few weeks of summer vacation come crashing down, the reality of getting back to school lingers around students of all ages.
But don’t let the fact that your daily agenda of sleeping past noon and lounging by the pool have become nonexistent be a reason to dread the upcoming semester.
As the first day approaches in this unbearably rapid manner, be prepared. The first few days back are bound to be hectic, but being on top of your game can make this crucial period nothing but a breeze.
All you have to do is follow these tips to surviving the first week back, FRESNO CITY style:
F represents friends. As much as we all hate being stuck behind an awkward shaped desk along with a 10 pound textbook and a teacher lecturing about political science or human sexuality, going back to school is a great way to catch up with old classmates or former rivals. More importantly, it is an opportune way to meet new people. Instead of just slipping into a desk and minding your own business, say hello. Introduce yourself and start up a conversation. You are going to be in the same classroom with these individuals for 18 weeks. So don’t be shy.
R is for rides. Returning FCC and transfer students know how dreadful the parking situation can be on campus the first week of class. Unless you have a 7:00 a.m. class, start thinking ahead now. If possible, carpool with a friend who has classes the same time as you. Or grab a bus schedule and plan when to leave your house and catch the FAX. Those who venture into one of the 10 parking lots should stash some ibuprofen in your car just incase a massive headache arises.
E is a reminder to eat breakfast. Year after year, teachers and parents alike remind you to eat before you go off to school. And sadly, you are going to hear it here, too. Eating something within the first hour of waking up helps to ensure the right nutrients are put into your body. Eating helps create alertness in the brain and can help wake you up after a long hard nights rest.
S calls for schedule. Print out a copy of your schedule and carry it with you on the first day of class. Having a copy allows you to make sure that you know when your class time is and which building you need to be in. Some teachers will ask to see your schedule if you are on the waitlist. Save yourself the trouble and just keep it handy.
N stands for no stress. The last thing any given student needs to do is freak out and have a hectic nature during the first few days. Your first class is typically used to take roll, get students off the waitlist and cover the semester’s curriculum. So calm down!
O is for organization. Instead of being a mess on the first day of class, make sure that you have these essentials: pens or pencils, paper, the required text, and your class schedule. Oh and make sure that you don’t leave your brain at home in bed as that might cause you some problems.
C is for communication. Don’t be afraid to speak up. If you need help finding a building, ask someone for directions. If you have a question for the professor, ask him or her. If you need to see a counselor about your academic plan, visit the counseling office and set up an appointment. If you have financial aid paperwork to take care of, good luck with the lines.
I is all about interacting. The great thing about attending such a diverse college is the availability of programs. There are a handful of clubs, athletics, and extracurricular activities on campus that are designed by students for students including Associated Student Government, Culturas Unidasv, Model United Nations, and Teachers of Tomorrow. It’s a great way to meet other students and expand the activities on your transcripts.
T is all about time management. Don’t allow yourself to become rushed and unorganized. If you don’t know where a class is, check out the campus map online (http://fresnocitycollege.edu/index.aspx?page=258) so you know where you need to be. Set aside study time even if it seems tedious. The extra few minutes spent reviewing biology notes or specific battles of the Civil War will pay off come time for exams, mid terms, and finals.
Y is for the most important part of all of this: YOU. College is designed to cater to the needs of your specific educational goals and aspirations. Make sure that your main focus is on what you want to achieve and what you love. Keep up with your classes and yes, cut down on the fun. Sure, you can have some fun. Just don’t go all Tucker Max…unless you think you can manage to write a best selling novel.

Most importantly, Fresno City’s faculty and staff are prepared to mold and shape the new minds in the fall semester. FCC prides itself on tradition, diversity, and its rich learning environments, and the 2009-2010 school year will be no exceptions.