Transitioning from high school to college is a major shift. Even though I took a gap year, I still had to adjust to the independence and responsibility required of a college student.

Here are four strategies I used to smooth the process that any incoming student can learn from:

Start earning money 

I applied to Target and started working as the semester approached. I found that I especially needed funds for public transportation and meals on campus.

Re-adjust your sleep schedule 

Even though I was waking up early for work during my gap year, I had to get used to waking up even earlier for school to navigate public transportation without being late. I had to ensure I was setting multiple alarms to wake up on time.

Double-check due dates 

This prevents you from missing assignments you didn’t know existed. I realized that some professors use sites outside of Brightspace—like Top Hat or ALEKS—for homework. These external sites don’t always notify you when assignments are due, so manual checking is required.

Establish a work-school-life balance 

I had to get used to a schedule where classes were not back-to-back, unlike high school. This new flexibility meant I had to balance working closing shifts on certain days, studying during gaps and finding free time to go out.

If you are going through a similar experience during your first semester, know that you are not the only one. Getting used to change is difficult, but determination to build a responsible, independent life will help you get through it.