College tips: what nobody told you before

Making the leap to college is one of the most exciting and transformative moments of your life. You leave behind the routine of high school, new responsibilities arrive, and suddenly a world of opportunities opens up before you. The excitement is great, but so are the doubts: “What will my first year be like?”, “What can I really expect?”.

To help you answer these questions, we’ve put together a guide with college tips that aren’t always shared, but will make your transition much easier.

Many agree that the first year is the most difficult. Not so much because of the subjects, but because of all the changes around you. You go from a rigid schedule to a system where you decide, and that independence can be liberating… or quite a challenge.

Before you start, it’s common to imagine endless parties and instant friendships. The reality is usually somewhere in between: yes, there will be Thursdays that stretch into Sundays, but there will also be that professor who decides to give an exam on Monday at 8:00 a.m.

The key? Finding your own balance between fun and responsibility.

Getting used to the idea of what’s coming helps a lot. University is about diversity, learning, and, above all, adaptation.

No one expects you to know everything from day one, so asking questions and asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but of intelligence.

Having a planner, organizational apps, or reminders on your phone may seem basic, but it will make all the difference when you have to hand in three assignments in the same week.

Here are the essentials:

1. Create study routines: there’s no point in leaving everything to the last minute. A little bit every day will save you more than you think.
2. Manage your time well: the Pomodoro method (25 minutes of study, 5 minutes of rest) really works. Basically: study, look at memes, repeat.
3. Lean on your professors and classmates: forming study groups or going to tutoring sessions makes everything easier, as well as giving you confidence.

During your first year, you will discover truths that are not mentioned in any guidebook.

Skipping too many classes is a bad move. Relying on notes taken by a classmate who writes in hieroglyphics is practically impossible. And leaving everything to the last minute only increases your stress levels.

In short: you’ll learn the importance of being organized, staying disciplined, and relying on your own efforts. What you achieve this year will be the foundation for everything that comes after.

Getting enough sleep, eating more than just ramen or pizza, and doing some sports are things that will affect your performance more than you think. So is finding time to disconnect: going out with friends, pursuing a hobby, or simply resting.

And, of course, taking advantage of digital tools like Notion or Google Calendar will make your life easier. It’s not about surviving your first year, it’s about living it to the fullest.

If you are looking for a place to accompany you during this stage of your life, Stephouse is the student residence that has it all. You will find quiet areas to study, common spaces where you can socialize with other young people, and unique experiences that will make your day-to-day life much more special.

With residences in different cities across Spain, Stephouse offers you the perfect environment to achieve your academic goals, build real friendships, and experience university life in your own style.

Visit our website for more information and to discover everything Stephouse has to offer.

How can I choose the right degree before starting university?

The best thing to do is to think about your interests, skills, and career options. Talking to guidance counselors or students in higher years can also help you make a clearer decision.

What should I do if I find it difficult to adapt to the pace of university?

It is normal to feel overwhelmed at first. The important thing is to establish routines, attend tutorials, ask for help when necessary, and remember that adaptation takes time.

How many hours should I study per day at university?

There is no fixed rule, but at least two hours of review for every hour of class is recommended.

How can I balance work and studies in my first year?

If you work, the key is planning. Choose compatible schedules, prioritize the most demanding subjects, and use time management techniques such as the Pomodoro method.

Is it advisable to live in a university residence hall?

Yes, especially in the first year. It allows you to focus on your studies, meet people in the same situation, and access services that make your daily life easier