Going to College 

Going to College Archive

How Do I Prepare for my Freshman Year in College?

Five key Steps to Ensure a Smooth Transition
Every college freshman faces the same challenges, especially early on during their initial academic semester. Most are away from home for the first time, adjusting to harder academic courses, managing increased responsibilities, and trying to meet new friends. As student-athletes, some freshmen are challenged further because they also have a sport and team to focus on. This can be particularly tough for golfers who face a fall season that begins within the first two weeks of their freshman year.

As a former college golf coach, I have a few suggestions that I believe will help high school seniors as they prepare for taking that

    1. Learn Effective Time Management Skills

  • Purchase a watch

  • Keep a calendar with golf & academic deadlines/key dates

  • Get more organized

    2. Focus on Health & Fitness

  • Sleep at least 8 hours per night

  • Eat three meals daily (healthy foods)

  • Work out regularly

  • See a doctor if you get sick or injured

    3. Develop a List of Priorities & Set Goals

  • Set academics as your main priority

  • Work with your coach to establish golf goals

  • Enjoy a social life but not at the expense of academics or golf

    4. Stay in Contact with Your Support Team

  • Communicate regularly with your parents

  • See your swing instructor when time permits

  • Schedule periodic meetings with your college coach

  • Talk to your sports psychologist before/after tournaments

  • Meet once per semester with your academic advisor

  • Find a mentor on the team to listen to (upper classman)

    5. Trust Your Golf Ability & Play "Your Game"

  • Resist the temptation to change your game now that you are in college

  • Be careful whom you listen to when working on your golf swing

  • Remain patient and have low expectations as a freshman

  • Work hard to get better with all aspects of your game—learn through experience

If you can follow these five suggestions, your transition to college will be smooth, and your golf game will continue to improve as a collegiate player. It's okay to make "freshman mistakes"—just make sure you learn from them. And always choose friends who can help you accomplish your golf and academic goals.

Good luck!

Coach Brooks
Red Numbers Golf®

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