College Tips Every Freshman Needs To Know

NorthPoint • July 21, 2022

Hey there, freshman! First off, congratulations on making it into college. You're probably feeling a mixture of emotions right now—excited, anxious, maybe even a little scared. But don't worry, that's totally normal. After all, college is a big transition both academically and socially.

To help you, we've compiled a list of college tips every first-year student should know. Trust us; they'll come in handy!


The Home Prep


Readying for college starts long before you even step foot on campus. In fact, it begins at home. Since you're living in a student housing complex, there are some things you'll need to take care of before you move in.


For starters, you'll need to pack all of your belongings. It includes both your clothes and your textbooks. Pack enough for the entire semester, as you probably won't be going home too often. You also need to bring with you:

  • Laptop or computer
  • Printer
  • All of your school supplies
  • Any medications you take
  • Driver's license and car registration (if you're bringing a car to campus)
  • Bedding and towels
  • First-aid kit
  • Things that will make your new place feel like home: such as photos, posters, and mementos


And don't forget the little things like a power strip, phone charger, and laundry detergent. You'll also need to take care of any financial matters such as tuition and room and board. Most schools have a payment plan, so set that up well in advance.


Finally, you'll need to get your student ID. It will be your key to the dorms and other campus buildings, so be sure to get it before you move in. And bring all the necessary documents with you such as your birth certificate and social security card.


The Move-In


Here's where the real college experience begins. It's time to move into your dorm! Because you'll be living in a student housing complex, the first thing you'll need to do is check in at the office. They'll give you your room key and a tour of the complex, and you're good to go.


Find Your Room and Start Unpacking


Understandably, first-year students have the most stuff, so it might take a while to get everything situated. As a tip, try to unpack your essentials first—clothes, toiletries, etc.—so you can be comfortable while you finish up.


*Tips: Try unboxing and unpacking a little every day so it doesn't feel overwhelming. But if you have the time, go ahead and unpack everything at once. You can ask for help from your roommates, complex staff, or even your parents if they're around.


Get to Know Your Roommates


Doing so is one of the most important college tips for first-year students. Your roommates will be some of your closest friends, so getting to know them as soon as possible is important.


*Tips: Get to know your roommates by chatting with them, going out to eat together, or even studying together. If you're feeling shy, break the ice by bringing them a small gift, like a snack or a drink. You can also introduce them to your other friends.


Familiarize Yourself With the Campus


You wouldn't want to get lost on your first day of classes, so familiarize yourself with the school's map beforehand. Knowing where and how to get around will save you time and stress, especially during your first few weeks.


*Tips: A great way to familiarize yourself with the campus is to take a tour. Most schools offer one for prospective students before the school year begins. If you didn't take a tour before, don't worry—most schools also offer some for current students. You can also ask your roommates or other upper-level students for help.


The Academic Life


How well you do in college academically will largely depend on how you study, manage your time, and take care of your health and relationship with others. Here are some college tips to help you:


Develop a Study Routine

Devise a habit and stick to it. Set aside time each day to do your homework, review your notes, and study for upcoming exams. Although there is no one-size-fits all approach to learning, try to find a time and place that works best for you.


*Tips: A great way to develop a study routine is to set up a study schedule. Write down when and where you'll study each day, and then adhere to it. You can also try studying with a friend or forming a study group.


Scout for a Learning Spot


Whether it's a desk, a library carrel, or a comfy chair in the lounge, find a spot on campus where you feel most productive. Just see to it that it has everything you need, such as a power outlet and a good view. Then, make it your go-to spot for studying. We even have study areas throughout our facilities at Northpoint Apartments specifically created for our residents. 


*Tips: If you're having trouble finding a good study spot on campus, try studying in the library. Most libraries have quiet areas where you can focus on your work. You can also try learning in a coffee shop or in your dorm room.


Manage your Time Wisely


With all the things you have to do—classes, homework, extracurricular activities, and more—it's important to manage your time wisely. That way, you can make the most of your college experience and avoid feeling overwhelmed.


*Tips: Use the power of sticky notes. Write down everything you need to do for the day, week, or month, and then stick it somewhere you'll see it often. That way, you won't forget anything. You can also try using a planner or setting reminders on your phone.


Buy or Rent Cheap Textbooks


If you want to save some money, buy or rent your textbooks online instead of buying them from the campus bookstore. You can also compare prices between different retailers to find the best deal.


*Tips: Book Viking, Rexburg's bookshop for college students, sells and rents textbooks for a fraction of the price. Head over and check it out. You can also buy used textbooks from other students or online retailers to save even more money.


Know the Grace Periods for Dropping/Changing Classes


Although the school won't charge you for dropping a class, you must do it before the deadline to avoid getting a "W" on your transcript. Do so only if it's absolutely necessary. Some valid reasons for dropping a class are:

  • You're struggling academically
  • You're not able to attend class regularly
  • The course is not what you expected it to be
  • You contracted an illness or have another emergency


*Tips: Talk to your professor or an academic advisor before dropping a class. They may be able to help you with your situation. Or seek help from the Student Success Center on campus.


Get to Know Your Professors

Your professors are your greatest resource regarding information about the class, your grade, and your career, so get to know them. Introduce yourself during office hours, and ask questions when you don't understand something.


*Tips: Some teachers are approachable, some are strict, and others are okay. Nonetheless, it doesn't hurt to try to get to know them. You never know when you might need their help.


Get Enough Sleep


No college student—even freshmen—can avoid pulling all-nighters to study for exams or finish a project. But if you're not careful, it can quickly catch up to you. Make sure to get enough sleep to function properly during the day.


*Tips: Most people need at least 7 hours of sleep, so try to get that much every night. If you can't, take a nap during the day. Just be sure not to nap for too long, or you'll have trouble sleeping at night.


Don't Procrastinate


Your worst college enemy is procrastination. It's tempting to put off assignments or study for exams, but it will only worsen things in the long run. So do your best to avoid it.


*Tips: One way to beat procrastination is by setting a goal for yourself. For example, tell yourself that you'll study for 30 minutes and then take a 5-minute break. Once you've done that, you can reward yourself with something you enjoy, like watching a TV show or going for a walk.


Start Working on Your Career Early


It's never too early to start thinking about your career. In fact, the sooner you start, the better. That way, you can ensure you're on the right track and get a head start on your future.


*Tips: Talk to your academic advisor about what classes you should take to prepare for your career. Also, look into internships or shadowing opportunities. And don't forget to network.


Join a Student Organization


One of the best ways to get involved on campus is to join a student organization. It's also a great way to meet new people and make friends. There are many different clubs to choose from, so you're sure to find one that interests you.

*Tips: Don't be afraid to try something new. You might be surprised at how much you like it. Also, don't feel like you have to join a club just because your friends are. Do what you want and what makes you happy.


The Social Scene


Of course, no college experience would be complete without the social scene. There's no shortage of things to do, from campus events to cliques. Just remember to prioritize your studies first and foremost.


Keep Relationships Healthy


Keeping your friendships and relationships healthy is important whether you're in a relationship or not. College is a time when people change and grow, so it's natural for relationships to change as well.

*Tips: If you're in a relationship, communicate with your partner. Discuss your expectations and needs. Be sure to set boundaries. If you're not dating, focus on building strong friendships. Spend time with your friends, and get to know them deeper.


Build Connections


In addition to relationships, it's also important to build connections. These can be with professors, mentors, or even just friends. The more people you know, the more likely you are to succeed.

*Tips: One way to build connections is by attending campus events. This is a great way to meet new people and get involved. Another way is to join a club or organization. Doing so will allow you to interact with people who share your interests.


Have Fun


Last but not least, don't forget to have fun. College is a time to explore new things and discover who you are. So make the most of it while being safe.

*Tips: Be sure to take advantage of all the campus offers. Attend events, join clubs, and try new things. And don't forget to enjoy your time with friends.


Staying Safe


Many risks surround college life. But with a few precautions, you can stay safe and enjoy your time in college. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Avoid walking alone at night. If you must walk alone, carry a flashlight and your cell phone
  • Trust your instincts. If you feel like something is wrong, it probably is
  • Know your surroundings. Familiarize yourself with the area, and know where the safe places are
  • Keep your belongings with you. Never leave your items unattended, even for a moment


Maintaining Your Well-being


You're just as important as your safety. To take care of yourself both physically and mentally, below are some tips:

  • Exercise regularly. It's not only good for your body, but it can also help relieve stress
  • Eat healthy. A nutritious diet will help you feel your best
  • Take breaks. Don't try to do everything at once. Instead, take time for yourself to relax and rejuvenate
  • Talk to someone. Speaking to a friend or counselor can help if you're feeling overwhelmed


What's Next


College is a time of growth and change. And as a freshman, you're just beginning your journey. But with these tips, you're sure to make the most of your college experience.

BYU-I Men’s Housing: Unexpected Essentials

By Jenn Handy • October 1, 2025
Before starting your first semester at college, it is important to pack well so you are sufficiently prepared. This helps you start college smoothly, settle in, and manage stress levels effectively. If you have read any articles detailing basic college necessities, then essentials such as school supplies, clothing, and bedding will likely make it into your suitcase. However, some key items tend to be forgotten during the packing process. Discovering some unexpected essentials that you might not have on your packing list yet can help to make your men's housing experience at BYU-Idaho all the more enjoyable. Organizers A well-organized space makes life smoother on multiple fronts. Not only does it make it easier to keep your new home clean and tidy, but it can also support your studying. Multiple studies demonstrate a link between cluttered spaces and decreased mental performance. Investing in a few space-optimized organizing products will allow you to maintain a tidy space that promotes healthy study habits. There’s no shortage of products on the market that can help you maximize your space. Space-saving clothing hangers , drawer organizers, and under-the-bed storage solutions are all effective ways to keep your room from looking and feeling overly “busy,” without having to be too selective about what makes it into your suitcase and what gets left at home. Outlet Options College housing and outlets are a bit like cars and cup holders; there’s never quite as many as you’d like there to be, and in some cases, the ones that are there are located in awkward positions. Yet as a modern college student, you’ll depend on outlets to maintain your academic and social lives, not to mention keeping your sanity in check. Having to decide between charging your laptop and phone is an inconvenience you should not have to endure. You can’t change how many outlets your room has, but you can get creative with how you manage the ones it does have by packing an extension cord and a power strip . The extension cord opens up additional flexibility, allowing you to choose your furniture placement without being confined to outlet location, while a power strip can significantly multiply the number of outlets. Large power strips can power up to twelve devices from a single outlet. Just make sure the outlet has a surge protector, which can help keep your devices safe in the event of a sudden spike in electrical voltage. Rain Protection You might arrive at BYU-Idaho at the tail end of summer, but those warm days will soon give way to fall and winter conditions. Packing with October-March in mind will make your early months at BYU-I all the more enjoyable. Remember: there’s no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing. You’ll likely have earmarked space in your luggage for warm clothing, but many newly-arriving students forget that having rain-ready clothes can be just as important for navigating Rexburg’s climate. Make sure to bring a rain jacket, and save it for a rainy day (literally). The weather is famously difficult to predict, but you can prepare for stormy days by investing in an umbrella and keeping it by the door so you do not forget to grab it on your way out to brave the elements. First Aid Supplies Packing first aid supplies is not likely to be at the top of your priorities list, but it can go a long way towards ensuring you can roll with the punches. Dealing with illnesses, allergies, and minor cuts and scrapes becomes much more manageable when you have a few key first aid essentials in your room: Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relief medicine, such as ibuprofen, offers a quick and convenient way to deal with minor aches and pains. If you ever get hit with a headache during your college experience, you’ll be thankful you made space for it in your suitcase. Allergy medicine: Rexburg can be delightful during the spring and fall months, but keep in mind that allergies can begin to flare around this period. Packing some antihistamines will allow you to enjoy all that the season has to offer to the fullest. Bandages and dressings: Accidents happen. A few bandages and dressings will allow you to treat minor cuts and scrapes at home, without having to visit the doctor. Cold and flu medicine: Spending so much time with your fellow students can be fun, but it always increases your chances of catching a cold. Packing some cold and flu medicine will be a lifesaver when you wake up with a sore throat and a runny nose. Transportable Storage Options College students are constantly coming and going. Just as you’ve gotten comfortable, you’ll be heading home for the holidays and or going on a trip for spring break. You’ll find the process of visiting home and other fun spots infinitely less stressful by investing in easily transportable storage that allows you to effortlessly move your belongings from one place to another (and then back again). Some smart solutions include:  Plastic storage bins: They’re strong, stackable, and easy to carry. Portable storage carts: Getting picked up? Storage carts have wheels, allowing you to simply roll your belongings to the car. Duffel bags: For lighter loads, duffel bags offer a convenient and flexible method of transporting your items. Enhance Your BYU-I Men’s Housing Experience At Northpoint, our luxury apartments provide the perfect place to live during your time at BYU-Idaho, providing the space you need to fit all your college necessities and enjoy life to the fullest. Contact us today to learn more about our men's housing availability or to schedule a tour.

Morning Routine Tips for BYU-I Women Living in Shared Housing

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We share advice for creating a morning routine as a BYU-I student living in shared housing, including planning ahead, getting up quietly, and more.

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Success starts with preparation, and at NorthPoint, we’ve got you covered. We share strategies for acing your first college presentation, such as practicing at your BYU-I student housing.

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Whether you utilize the campus fitness center, participate in group classes, or take advantage of the top-notch amenities at NorthPoint, staying active at BYU-Idaho is within reach.

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Balancing Privacy and Social Life in Shared Student Housing

By North Point • August 12, 2024
Sharing student housing with others comes with its challenges. It might be the first time you share a room with others. Having roommates can be an advantage, making getting to know others and having a vibrant social life more effortless. However, you may find it difficult to get alone time. Finding the right balance between privacy and your social life is important. You don't want to be so involved with your roommates that you never get time alone, but at the same time, you don't want to shut yourself away. If you're smart about how you use your time, you can achieve this balance. Setting boundaries, creating your own space, and setting up a schedule with roommates can all help. Why Privacy and Social Interactions Are Important Everyone needs privacy. At college, it helps you maintain your well-being and can be essential for achieving academic success, too. You need space to study in peace and time to examine your thoughts and feelings or just to unwind. But a vibrant social life is just as important, and college gives you the chance to really develop one. Spending time with others is good for your mental health . It helps you avoid loneliness, sharpens your mind, and boosts your mood. It could even help you live longer . Socializing enables you to build connections during college that could last a lifetime. How to Set Boundaries with Roommates Setting boundaries with your roommates is one of the best ways to create personal space for yourself. When you communicate with each other about your needs, you can all devise a solution that works for everyone. If you want to respect each other's boundaries, it's best to be upfront instead of waiting for tensions to rise. Try to have a polite discussion where everyone has their say. Set clear expectations and rules when you move in. These agreements might include dedicated hours for quiet studying or solo time in a shared bedroom. You could also talk about things like keeping the apartment clean and tidy and making sure you each know your responsibilities. It’s wise to draft a quick roommate agreement so you can refer to it later. Sometimes, conflicts and misunderstandings can arise. When this happens, there's no need for drama. If you can approach each other with kindness and understanding, you can get on the same page without fighting or falling out. If you feel compelled to address an issue, avoid being accusatory. Similarly, if your roommates want to discuss something with you, try not to be too defensive and remain open to resolving the concern. If you need help, consider bringing in a neutral third party to help mediate. To prevent problems from building and boiling over, it's a good idea to have regular check-ins. During these brief meetings, you'll have the opportunity to discuss how things are going and how you can collectively improve them for everyone. Creating Personal Space It can be tough to have your own space when you share an apartment and a room with others. But there are ways to do it so you and your roommates can have the personal time and space you need. Some of the steps you could take include: Using room dividers to separate rooms into smaller spaces Making use of noise-canceling headphones to block out noise from others, as well as keep your preferred audio to yourself Setting up a schedule to ensure everyone gets their alone time at some point during the day/week One of the most beneficial things you can have in shared student housing is a space you can retreat to. Even if it's just a corner or a space on your bed, it gives you somewhere to decompress, think, and relax without the pressure of having other people around. Managing Social Activities Your solo time matters, but it's also crucial that you don't retreat too far into your own world. College offers many opportunities to make new friends and create a fantastic social life. At the same time, you need to find a balance and make sure you're not spending too much time socializing instead of studying or recharging your batteries. You might want to get out there and start making friends, but it can be overwhelming. There's so much to do and so many people to meet, and you might feel like you can't miss out on anything. If you want a rich social life without getting overwhelmed, it's important to allow yourself to take a break. Set limits on your social time to ensure you have plenty of personal downtime. Respecting your roommates’ schedules and preferences is essential when planning social events at your apartment. If one of your roommates needs to study, it's not fair for you and your friends to disturb them–especially without warning. Respecting Each Other's Schedule and Space Everyone likes to organize their schedules for study, sleep, and other activities. Respecting each other's schedules helps to create harmony in your apartment. To be respectful of each other's space, try some of these strategies: Set quiet hours and use signals for when you want alone time. Set rules and schedules for using common areas. Schedule usage times and keep these spaces tidy. Be respectful of each other's belongings and personal space within common areas. Private and Shared BYU-Idaho Student Housing Sharing your home with others can be challenging, but you can make it work if you're respectful of each other. Start by aiming to communicate well and show each other respect and understanding. When you can respect each other, you can share your space in a way that works for everyone. Are you looking for the best student housing in Rexburg? Contact NorthPoint to learn about our private and shared student housing options .

Summer in Rexburg: 8 Fun Activities to Try

By North Point • July 16, 2024
Being in an unfamiliar town during the summer can feel frustrating or boring if you aren’t sure how to spend your time. Luckily, there are many fun and exciting things to do in Rexburg if you know where to look.