Freshman year is one of the most overwhelming yet fun times in an individual’s college experience, and truthfully, life in general. From a student who has been there, here are my top ten tips specifically for pre-pharmacy freshmen:
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This first one might sound obvious, but go to class.
Going to class is the best way to ensure success; all you have to do is show up. I know some days the weather may be yucky, you might be groggy and wish you could sleep instead, but trust me, attendance matters more than you think in the grand scheme of things.
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Second, a slightly less obvious tip: Attend office hours.
A lot of the time professors schedule office hours and very few students show up. This is a time to take advantage of and ask your professor questions. Often they give helpful information for the class and material as well. Going to office hours also helps to build relationships with your professors, and they will be more likely to help you with your performance in the class if they know you well.
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Set goals.
It is so crucial at the start of a semester to set goals for yourself so that you can hold yourself accountable. Whether they be academic or personal targets, it is always important to be working towards something in the bigger picture.
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Make yourself a budget.
If you do not budget your money adequately, it runs out extremely fast (trust me, I know from experience.) So while you may be tempted to spend at your heart’s content, start by limiting yourself in small ways so that you can make your money last all semester.
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Go to College of Pharmacy events!
These events are engaging and fun, and they can help you meet new people in the field of pharmacy. You will find that making connections is critical in your pre-pharmacy years, and this is a great way to do so with staff and students.
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Use a calendar or planner.
You are going to have a lot of dates to keep up with as a pre-pharmacy student. Whether you have events that you are required to attend or deadlines for applying for pharmacy school, a planner is a great way to keep track of your responsibilities. I was skeptical at first too, but now I feel like I can’t live without my planner and it has truly helped me get on top of my tasks.
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Find a favorite study spot.
Whether it be the library or on the historic Horseshoe, look for a place that you feel comfortable doing work and studying in. Staying in your dorm room to work can seem claustrophobic and unproductive at times, so branch out and find a place that inspires you to work.
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Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
USC offers resources from free tutoring to supplemental instruction sessions, so do not be scared to use them. It is incredibly normal to get help from these resources and they are honestly invaluable.
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Join student clubs and organizations.
This is one of the best ways to meet new people and make friends! Student organizations bring people together with similar interests, so you can make friends that enjoy the same things that you do. -
Last, but certainly not least: Get involved.
Although this kind of goes hand in hand with #9, getting involved on campus makes your USC experience worthwhile. Above all, if you truly immerse yourself in university and pre-pharmacy life, you will get a lot out of your time at USC.
Topics: Student Experience, Pre-Pharmacy, 2023-24 Creators@COP