energY

A little planning goes a long way. These sage words of advice certainly apply to the dorm room supply list. Good planning can save you a lot of woes. In fact, when you arrive to the dorms, you will quickly see who took the time to plan a dorm room supply list and who didn't. The ones who didn't will be the ones who show up with all of their clothes and school supplies, but no shampoo, linens, or plates. Or conversely, they'll be the ones with two refrigerators, two toaster ovens, two televisions, and so on. Such is dormitory life, on occasion. You, however, are going to show up well-prepared with every dorm room supply you need and learn how to adjust well to dormitory life from day one.

Take a moment and grab a pen and paper. Okay, now start your dorm room supply list by writing down everything you absolutely cannot live without. List items of clothing, computer, shoes/boots, alarm clock, and other bare bones items. Once you have taken the time to do that, then indulge just a little bit and add some things you would like to bring, such as CDs, photos, or any other familiar comfort items that might make you feel more at home in your new surroundings. Finally, as far as personal items are concerned, think of the things you use everyday, but were likely not responsible for purchasing/replenishing in the past: soap, shampoo, towels, razors, laundry detergent, and the like. These make up part of your dorm room essential supply items which you should plan on bringing regardless of any other factors.

Dorm Room Supply: The Big Items

Now that you have identified the personal dorm room supply items for which you will always be reponsible, it's time to start making a list of bigger items that you and your future roommate will likely be sharing. This list usually includes items like a television, a mini fridge, a microwave, a stereo, a video game system, a rug, and other big items. You may already have some of these bigger dorm room essential items. You may even have all of them. Regardless, if you think you will need it, put it on the list.

Most college and university housing offices will supply incoming freshmen with the contact information of their soon-to-be roommates. They do this for a reason: so you communicate with that person beforehand. And what better way to reach out than to start by discussing the bigger dorm room supply stuff. In most situations, you will have everything covered between the two of you. It's just a matter of deciding who is going to bring what. Perhaps, you may also have to figure out who will have to buy certain items you both feel you need, but currently do not own. This type of bonding, sharing, and compromise is a good preview for much of what dormitory life - and life in general - is all about.

Dorm Room Essential Guidelines

Some colleges and universities actually require you and your roommate to sign a contract regarding guidelines and expectations for the room. These contracts relate to what will be acceptable behavior and what will not be. If your school of choice does not have this contract, you may still want to discuss the matter with your roommate to prevent any future problems that could snowball quickly. If the two of you worked on the dorm room supply list together, then you have an advantage here.

Still, the world takes all types of people. Some common differences that can cause problems include between:
•smokers and non-smokers
•early risers and night owls
•neat freaks and clutterbugs

If you and your roommate fall into opposite categories on any of these, or similar issues, talk about it early and find a compromise. Issues are easier to resolve in September than they are in February.

Dormitory life can be unpredictable, but having a few rules, and being accountable for them, can give you something you can count on when things get stressful. And remember, like you, your roommate and fellow dorm dwellers are still growing up and still learning. When they make mistakes, show some patience. When they are down, show some encouragement. And when they succeed, show them praise. Dorm room essential guidelines, expectations, and support can be just as important to your success in college as test scores.

College, like life, is often what you make of it. Be sure to get out there and make something memorable. If you have any questions or want to share some of your info, give us a shout back because we love to hear from you!

Are you preparing for the college application process?  If so you should definitely check out this video to learn about all the things you will need on your application checklist!  Don't forget to shout back at us with any tips you have for the college application process!

Applications are highly evolved documents, based on numerous admission deans asking themselves if they're asking you the right questions. For that reason, how you fill out an application is almost as important as the information you include. In other words, follow directions! Here are some other key college application tips.

Review the requirements

Applying to college typically involves a fair amount of paperwork. So before you hit the post office, take a long last look at your application.

• If you're applying electronically, did you type carefully and check your spelling? If you're applying on paper, was your application filled out neatly?
• Did you take shortcuts? A partially completed application is a clear signal that you are not an eager applicant.
• Did you send too much information? If a two-page essay is requested, did you send in four? Only do so if you’re not sending fluff!
• Did you send all the information that was asked for — including transcripts, test scores, and recommendations?
• Did you meet or beat deadlines?

Submit as early as possible

With deadlines in sight, keep in mind that admission offices are inundated with applications for a few months each year. When applying to college, consider getting your application in when the staff doesn't have hundreds and hundreds of them to read.

Stragglers are accepted of course, but why send yours in at the last minute when you could get it there before the rush hits?

Double-check the writing in your college application

Nothing says "I don't really care about this college" like inadvertently putting another college's name somewhere in the application. The same goes with spelling the college's name incorrectly. Either error signals a major lack of seriousness about really wanting to attend that particular school.

If you follow these guidelines and check yourself, you will have most of the bases covered when it is college application time! If you have any helpful tips that others would find useful, give us a shout and share the info!

When it comes to homework, some need privacy but other might enjoy the environment of libraries. Some people might prefer the background noise of the television while studying while others need peace and quiet. Which ever type of studier you are, you need to have a plan of action when it comes to studying. This weeks JSC FCU energY Blog post is about the ins and outs of homework routines.

The most important thing when first developing a homework routine is deciding on the location of where you will be studying. Some people need privacy, others prefer people around them. Perhaps find the place in your home that you are comfortable to do work. Have the tools you need ready to get the work done.After a full day at school the last thing you might want to do is homework so having all of your materials ready will ease you into your work when you get home versus having to get everything ready.

Next, pick a time and stick to it! Routine, routine, routine! Routines can make things easier and keep you organized. When you feel organized you will become more relaxed and problems can possibly become easier. Remember to let yourself become familiar with this routine by sticking to it and not deviating from it! Problems and situations may arise that are serious but skipping your study session to out and get some food with friends may not be the best idea.

Finally, don't overwhelm yourself. In other words, when making your homework routine try and space things out and not pile things on top of another. If you have too many things going at once you can get burned out or even miss things you are suppose to do.

When it comes to making a homework routine you should always remember to make sure your are able to keep the routine up and not deviate from it! Staying organized will help you stay relaxed and focused during the school year! If you have any questions or want to share your homework routine, give us a shout back because we love to hear from you!

College can be an expensive endeavor, even with scholarships and other kinds of financial help. It's difficult enough balancing a class schedule -- the thought of balancing a checkbook, on the other hand, can strike fear into the hearts of even the most studious mathematicians. Everything from textbooks, food, transportation, supplies and entertainment -- these will all cost you money. There's no getting around it. However, there are easy ways to save. Here are several ways to avoid the constant panic of going broke: