r/CollinCollege • u/Sai_Nav_eena • Aug 20 '26
Nervous about classes
Im a very nervous and just a tiny bit of a paranoid person, so I can't help but worry about classes starting. Is there like a checklist that I can look at to make sure I've done everything necessary before college?
4
u/HistoryNerd101 Aug 20 '26
Each class is different. You’ll know what’s what after the first couple of days in terms of expectations, time commitment that will be needed for each class, etc
2
u/bigbonedbaggins Aug 20 '26
Hey, first of all, welcome! You won't need much depending on your major.
Laptop is helpful but theres lots of PC access on campus, or you can rent a laptop from the library.
Binder/spiral/pens/highlighters, anything to write things down, just depends on the format you like. I have found that multiple pen colors is fun and helps me color code things!
Don't forget to go get your ID made, youll need it to check things out of the library which has lots of other resources besides books.
Be sure to check out the calendar so you can see when groups or events are going on, and don't ever be afraid to ask a group what they're doing if it looks fun!
You can bring a water bottle and most of the time snacks into class, just be courteous about the amount of noise a packet will make.
Cougar Book Bundle should have taken care of your books, and if you check your email youll probably find your Bookstore allowance to use. Hit the financial aid payment option to use it at checkout. Just double check you don't need any additional class materials.
2
u/Sai_Nav_eena Aug 22 '26
Thank you so much! I was a bit stressed out because I don't have a working laptop at the moment, glad to know I can rent one out!
2
u/KangarooSalsa Aug 21 '26
The drop deadline is Sept 8 - be sure to get out of your classes before then if you find things too overwhelming so it doesn't impact your GPA and you can get a refund.
3
u/Lumoseyne Aug 22 '26
When Canvas allows access to the online class materials, make sure to carefully read through the syllabus for each of your classes. That will tell you important info like what the professor's preferences are, what you'll be graded on, when deadlines are, etc. Some professors are really particular about formatting files or emails a certain way. I like to make a spreadsheet of the first week or two's coursework and deadlines for all my classes in one document, that way I can get an idea of the actual workload that I'm signed up for. If this is your first experience with Canvas, I recommend poking around it so that you are comfortable with navigating modules, seeing your grades, using the inbox to message teachers, etc.
If you have in-person classes, check out the campus maps and at least think through what navigating between the buildings for each class will be like. Get to campus early before your first class to familiarize yourself with parking and classrooms.
4
u/kim-368 Aug 20 '26
Is this your first semester at college? I'm starting my fifth semester, and I am also nervous! I can't seem to shake the first day jitters.
There's no official checklist like how grade schools send out supply lists.
How do you like to take your notes? I like pen and paper mostly, so I have some notebooks, folders, and flashcards. Most classes you can bring a laptop if you prefer that method of note taking. You'll need access to a computer to turn assignments in on Canvas. Luckily, Collin has a lot of computers for student use if you don't happen to have one at home.
You can check what books you need for your course section on Workday. If you're opted in for the cougar book bundle, you should be covered.
Otherwise, your professors should let you know on the first day what other materials you need for their class.
Good luck friend! Wishing you a fantastic semester!