College Survival Guide - 2017 by Times Media Group

college survival guide 2017

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tips, tricks & secrets on dorm life, majors and more traditions you need to know + 7 ASU

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PUBLISHER

Steve T. Strickbine

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Niki D’Andrea

EDITOR

Madison Rutherford

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Shane Degrote, Connor Dziawura, Rachel Hagerman, Carson Mlnarik

DESIGNER

Christy Byerly

CIRCULATION DIRECTOR

Aaron Kolodny

STREET TEAM MANAGER

Chuck Morales III

DISTRIBUTION FIELD MANAGER

Mark “Cowboy” Lucero

ASSOCIATE ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER

Nadine Whitehead

BICYCLE CO./RIDESHOP

PHOTOGRAPHER: JEFF OLSEN

WE KNOW HOW MANY TESTS AND QUIZZES YOU TAKE, BUT WE THINK THIS ONE WILL BE YOUR FAVORITE. HERE IS A QUICK QUIZ ON SOMETHING POPULAR OR IMPORTANT WE THINK YOU NEED TO KNOW.

POP

Which university has graduated the most presidents?

A. Harvard

B. Princeton

C. Yale

?POP QUIZ

prez to sport the signature Harvard crimson.

ANSWER: A. Eight U.S. presidents have graduated from Harvard. John Adams was the ﬁrst president to attend the prestigious university in the 1750s and Barack Obama, who graduated from Harvard Law School in ’91, is the most recent

NUMBERS

The average college student will have $23,700 of debt after graduation.

The average college student skips a total of 26 classes per year.

The cost of college textbooks has risen 812 percent in the past 30 years.

In 1870, tuition for a year at Harvard was only $150

14 of the world’s 25 largest stadiums belong to American college football teams.

The average wage of a student’s ﬁrst job out of college is $20 per hour.

Only 16 percent of students attend private nonproﬁt colleges and universities.

The average SAT score of incoming ASU undergraduates is 1129

About 3 percent of undergrads are veterans and 1 percent are active duty.

Letter from the editor

I’m not here to sugarcoat things.

College will throw you a lot of curveballs. If it doesn’t, you’re doing it wrong. The good news is we’ve been there, and we’re here to help. We’ve bombed a big test. We’ve texted our ex while drunk (and sober). We’ve camped out in cramped quarters, pinched pennies, gotten lost on campus and found ourselves. We learned just as much outside of the classroom as we did in our lectures and tried to avoid existential meltdowns in the library (and that ex we just texted). We lived to tell the tale and we’re here to help you do the same.

Some things you have to learn the hard way, and we can’t cram four years of knowledge into one issue. However, we can give you the 4-1-1 on the crap you really care about, like how to avoid spending $600 on textbooks, where you can get the best cup of coffee near campus and how to ensure you graduate on time. So absorb the wisdom within. These will be the best four (or three or ﬁve) years of your life. No sugarcoating.

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WELCOME PACKET

CARSON MLNARIK • COLLEGE TIMES

Between academics, history and statistics, there’s a lot to know about ASU. Your welcome packet gives you loads of information about majors, counselors and your

11 THE UNIVERSITY FORMERLY KNOWN AS…

ASU has gone by a number of different names on its journey to state university status in 1958, including the Arizona Territorial School of Tempe, Tempe Normal School, Tempe State Teachers College and Arizona State College.

10 STOP IN THE NAME OF BIKES

With 10,000 bikes on campus, there are a lot of wheels at all times. It’s no surprise one of the biggest safety issues on campus is bike theft. Metal locks that can’t be clipped, like the U-lock, are the way to go. The best advice for any freshie biker: Buy a cheap bike and an expensive lock!

residential hall, but what about the campus itself? If you want to dive head ﬁrst into ASU’s quirkier offerings, look no further.

8 IT’S CHILL, MAN

All the chilled water for air conditioning on campus comes from the Central Plant, a tan-gray building near Hassayampa Academic Village. The ice-cold water is stored in six 1.1-million-gallon concrete tanks underneath the grass ﬁeld in front of the gym.

WHY DID IT HAVE TO BE SNAKES?

Walking to class, you might stumble upon some reptiles. The Life Sciences Center houses a comprehensive collection of snakes as well as other species, like the Gila monster.

7 GOING GREEN

ASU is home to the nation’s ﬁrst School of Sustainability, launched in 2007. The bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree programs are housed in Wrigley Hall, which features wind-powered fans on its roof.

TEMPE CAMPUS

6 SCULPTED

The multi-colored “Celebration” sculpture by Farmer Hall celebrates ASU’s centennial anniversary. Underneath the sculpture are two time capsules from 1935 and 1985. The 1985 capsule features a high-top tennis shoe, a Mrs. Field’s chocolate chip cookie and a replica of Michael Jackson’s sequin glove — when they open it up, it’ll surely be a Thriller!

5 GAMMAGE GOLD

Gammage Auditorium, designed by famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright, was intended to be an opera house in Iraq. ASU’s then-president, Grady Gammage, was friends with Wright and got him to use the design for the university. Gammage Auditorium is the only public building in Arizona designed by Wright.

4 BRIDGE OVER TROUBLED WATER

While occasionally more of a nuisance than a utility, the bridge over University Drive — with its infamously tiny steps — was

3 QUITE THE VISIT

The only place big enough to house Pope John Paul II during his 1987 Arizona visit was Sun Devil Stadium. The pope delivered Mass to over 75,000 people in attendance … after ASU covered the word “devil” on all Sun Devil logos and references throughout the stadium.

2 FINE DINING

ASU’s Memorial Union houses dining options like Chick-ﬁl-A, Burger King and Einstein Bros. Bagels, but the real crown jewel is P.F. Chang’s. ASU was the ﬁrst college ever to feature the Chinese restaurant on its campus, bringing lettuce wraps and joy to the entire student body.

1 YE OLDE MAIN

The oldest building currently standing on ASU’s campus is Old Main, constructed more than a decade before Arizona achieved statehood in 1912. It was the ﬁrst building in Tempe to have electric lights, and notable ﬁgures from Teddy Roosevelt to Jimmy Fallon have stood on its steps. It’s now home to the ASU Alumni Association. CT

SUN DEVIL STADIUM

SUN DEVILS’ PLAYGROUND

7 ASU TRADITIONS YOU NEED TO KNOW

The maroon and gold Sun Devils have a long history of fun and quirky customs. A big school comes with big traditions,

PAINTING THE ‘A’ (AUGUST 19)

“A” Mountain, also known as Tempe Butte or Hayden Butte, is a historical landmark and the source of one of ASU’s oldest traditions. The golden “A” has watched over the Tempe campus since 1938 and is the go-to hiking spot in Tempe. At the beginning of each school year, freshmen are bused from all four campuses to whitewash the “A.” With their hands and their own cups of paint, they turn the “A” from gold to white, representing a fresh start for the academic year. The “A” is painted gold for the ﬁrst football game of the season but requires special attention since ASU’s rival, U of A, has its own “A” Mountain at Sentinel Peak in Tucson. On the days leading up to the Territorial Cup game, both schools have groups camped out to guard their mountains from rival students trying (and sometimes succeeding) to paint the “A” with their school colors.

THE INFERNO (FOOTBALL GAMES

AUGUST THROUGH NOVEMBER)

Spanning from the north end zone to the south end zone, the student section at ASU football games is called The Inferno. Every student is a part of the crew and receives free admission to Sun Devil home football games. This year marks the ﬁrst time students will be able to receive mobile tickets on their phones. The Inferno has some traditions of its own, including a series of chants and distractions you’ll want to brush up on: When the Sun Devils’ entrance video plays, make the pitchfork hand sign to the beat of the music; when the Sun Devils score, Sparky does a push-up for every point scored and students count them out loud; during each kickoff, everyone holds their car keys in the air and shakes them. Although the latter may seem crazy to

so make sure you’re familiar with them before you call yourself a true Sun Devil.

outsiders, it’s actually quite clever. It indicates the start of a new drive.

INFERNOFEST (SEPTEMBER 8)

Every fall, ASU celebrates the start of the school year with a killer concert at Wells Fargo Arena. The show not only unites students from all four campuses for an amazing performance but also showcases student performers and builds spirit for the football season. Past shows have featured Mac Miller, 3OH!3 and Kesha. The All-American Rejects headline this year’s show.

THE CURTAIN OF DISTRACTION (BASKETBALL GAMES NOVEMBER THROUGH MARCH)

A burgeoning tradition, the Curtain of Distraction has quickly become an essential part of the ASU basketball experience. During the second half of home games, ASU’s 942 Crew — a group of the university’s most spirited students — tries to distract visiting players during free throws. Distractions range from crazy outﬁts to skits to full-on lip syncs. ASU got some help when Charlie Day of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia popped in during a February game to distract players with a rendition of “Day Man” from the TV show. The previous year’s crew recruited Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps, who sported his gold medals and a Speedo. Who knows what surprises lay behind the Curtain this year?

DUEL IN THE DESERT (NOVEMBER 25)

Few things are as personal as the ASU and U of A rivalry. The two schools have had opposing football teams since 1899, when ASU was called the Tempe Normal School. Pride, bragging rights and a trophy are on the line each year when the two square off in

the annual Duel in the Desert. The November game is usually held during Thanksgiving weekend and decides which school receives the nation’s oldest rivalry trophy — the Territorial Cup. The two teams alternate hosting the showdown; this year’s game takes place in Tempe. The game brings out alumni and football fans of all ages and is always a highlight of each season.

PAT’S RUN (APRIL 22)

One of the more recent traditions, Pat’s Run is named for alumnus Pat Tillman, who gave up playing for the Arizona Cardinals to join the Marines after 9/11. In memory of his death in Afghanistan in 2004, runners from all over the country gather in Tempe every spring to honor Tillman’s sacriﬁce. The event also raises money for the Pat Tillman Foundation, which provides scholarships to military veterans. The 4.2-mile run ends on the 42-yard line in Sun Devil Stadium, to honor Tillman’s No. 42 jersey.

DEVILPALOOZA (SPRING)

Spring semester gets a little sweeter each year during ASU’s annual Devilpalooza, which always recruits a big-name performer for an outdoor concert on the Sun Devil Fitness Complex ﬁeld. Featuring inﬂatables, lawn games and food, Devilpalooza marks another opportunity for the student body to unite and celebrate their hard work during the school year. While this year’s show is still TBA, past years have featured performers like Panic! at the Disco, Hunter Hayes and Rae Sremmurd. CT

AFROM SCANDALOUS TO SCHOLARLY:

SU, Stanford, MIT, Cornell. Those are the top four schools in News & World Report’s ranking of “Most Innovative Colleges” in the country. ASU sealed the No. 1 spot – not for parties, Greek life or drop-outs, but for innovation. The Sun Devils are shedding their party image — and surpassing Ivy League schools — one ranking at a time.

In years past, ASU has been considered one of the best party schools, not only in the United States but across the world. However, the institution has quickly swayed opinions with its nationally recognized accolades and awards in recent years. While not everyone is convinced ASU has changed its ways (we’re looking at you, Seth MacFarlane), the professors and students at ASU certainly aim to prove it. The university is the No. 1 producer of Fulbright scholars and is No. 5 for Fulbright awards. The Fulbright program helps develop a mutual understanding between the United States and other countries and provides students with an opportunity to study abroad.

Incredible students do not come without fantastic professors, another area in which the Sun

Devils are excelling. ASU employs some of the best faculty in the nation, with Nobel Prize winners, Pulitzer Prize winners and Fulbright scholars among the ranks. The university plucks the most innovative professors with real world experience in many of the most competitive job markets. Look no further than the new Frank Russell Chair for the Business of Journalism, Julia Wallace, former managing editor at the Arizona Republic.

Success doesn’t stop in the classroom, either; employers have picked up on the achievements of ASU students. The university ranked ﬁfth on a list of top universities favored by employers for job recruiting, according to the Wall Street Journal . Preparing students for life after college is paramount and ASU has continually proved to be one of the best colleges with majors that best prepare students for the real world.

With nationally recognized colleges like the Barrett Honors College, W.P. Carey School

and Mass Com -

of Business, Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College and the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Com munication, students can expect the very best education in school, online and even after gradu ation. U.S. News & World Report ASU No. 11 among best schools to earn an online undergraduate degree, No. 5 for best online MBA program and 14th for best graduate education program in the nation.

school, online andrankedU.S.

Sun Devils everywhere have laid the founda tion for one of the best colleges in the country, and they continually prove that ASU is more than just a party school. Thanks to award-winning professors, students and alumni, the university has garnered the respect it de serves and embodies the “work hard, play hard” adage. CT

7 THINGS

We all remember our ﬁrst year of college (even if we don’t want to). We’ve failed our fair share of quizzes, gotten lost on campus, sprinted to class and showed up sweaty and stressed out. We’ve said and done dumb stuff when we were drunk, tried to pretend like we understood what it meant to network, skipped a class to write an essay for another class and tried to balance work, school and a social life. We were all sitting front row on the struggle bus at one point or another but we also learned a lot and had the time of our lives along the way. Here are a few life lessons we’ve kept in our back pocket since that ﬁrst fateful year.

WE WISH WE KNEW AS FRESHMEN

ﬁnd a campus map and think of it as an adventure; it might end up being a great way to explore campus.

3. Only skip class when it’s absolutely necessary. If you want to skip class every once in a while because you’re too tired or hungover, that’s up to you. Just don’t make it a habit. Each classroom operates differently, so make sure attendance isn’t part of your grade before you hit that snooze button.

1. Don’t take morning classes if you’re not a morning person. Having ambition is important, but don’t expect to get to college and suddenly become responsible overnight. If you’d rather catch some Zs than catch a bus to school at 8 a.m., don’t register for early classes. Think about it this way: The school system has forced you to wake up at the crack of dawn for years, so pick a

schedule that works for you now that you have the freedom to do so.

2. Don’t stress about getting lost. Everyone gets lost on campus on the first day, and sometimes even the first few weeks after that. Sometimes finding your way around isn’t as easy as it seems. Don’t be afraid to ask a fellow student or faculty member where something is. Plan ahead,

4. Party responsibly. Be conscious of where you are, who you’re with and how much you drink. Know your limits and don’t be afraid to say no or leave a party if you feel uncomfortable or unsafe. Go out with a group of close friends, and commit to watching each other’s backs (and drinks).

5. People are going to tell you to network. Don’t blow it off. Yeah, networking totally sounds like a nonsense business buzzword, but when advisors, professors and parents tell you to do it — freakin’ do it! You’ll meet countless people in college that can help you with your future career, and trust us — trying to make connections as

a post-grad is an uphill battle. You have access to more opportunities at your ﬁngertips than you probably ever will in the future, so utilize them!

6. Don’t be afraid to go at your own pace.

There’s no rule that says you have to graduate college in four years. College is all about getting the most out of the experience and learning what feels right for you, so if you want to take more or less time to get your degree, go for it. Take classes online, graduate early and work toward your master’s. Take a gap year and work or study abroad. Take classes that aren’t required. Get a job and go to school part-time for a few semesters. The world is your oyster!

7. Double-check your DARS report.

The DARS report, available on Blackboard, tells you how many credits you’ve earned and how many you need to obtain your degree. If you drop or retake a class, sometimes it still shows up as a credit. Before you know it, you’ll be three credits shy of a degree the last three weeks of your senior year, so check it often and meet with an advisor regularly to make sure you’re on the right track. CT

FTHE FRESHMAN ROAD MAP:

reshman year is all about meeting new people, having fun and fully embracing your newfound adulthood. You’ll make a few mistakes along the way, but it’s important to keep it together — or at least fake it till you make

AUGUST

Find your place You’ll probably feel like a fish out of water the first few weeks of freshman year. You’ll meet a lot of other fish, too – some you vibe with and some you don’t. Don’t sweat it if you don’t meet your BFF during Welcome Week. Eventually you’ll make significant friendships that will last through your college career and beyond. In the meantime, it’s important to put yourself out there. Join clubs, rush a sorority or fraternity, go to open mics, and talk to people in the quad.

Books

You’re in the big leagues now, which means you have to buy your own books. Largely, they will be brand spankin’ new (and come at a hefty

premium). But don’t jump the gun. Our advice? Attend all your classes ﬁrst to analyze your options. It’s not uncommon for the professor to not even require the book at all. You may also be able to rent it, buy it used or download a free PDF copy online. Use your resources and save yourself mad stress —and mad cash.

Drop classes

it. If you set up a timeline early on, you’ll make the most out of your ﬁrst year and make it easier for yourself later on. The rest will fall into place, we promise.

Crash classes

Crashing a class means that you go to a class you’re not enrolled in hoping that someone else will drop the class so you can procure their spot. Think of it like crashing a party, except you’re getting graded for it.

SEPTEMBER

Get organized

You might attend your ﬁrst week of classes and realize that one of them just isn’t your style. If this is the case, there’s only one thing to do: Drop it like it’s hot. But please drop responsibly; be aware of add and drop deadlines and make sure you can take the class another time with another professor if it’s a required GE.

It’s crucial to establish good study and organizational habits from the get-go. Colorcode your notes, have separate notebooks and folders for each class, use an agenda and make endless to-do lists. Even if this doesn’t immediately seem natural, it’ll eventually start to become a habit if you do it on the daily.

OCTOBER

Build your resume

The earlier you write a resume, the sooner you’ll get a job. It’s that simple. The Student Services ofﬁce at ASU offers resume help that can aid in scoring a job or internship. It may not be particularly glamorous or well-paying, but a big part of college is paying your dues and a well-put-together resume can help streamline the process.

NOVEMBER

Meet with an advisor

Advisors are there to help you navigate the requirements for your degree or point you in the right direction if you’re undecided. Many majors require mandatory advising each semester. Regardless, it’s important to meet with an advisor

HOW TO STAY ON THE RIGHT PATH YOUR FIRST YEAR

regularly to ensure you don’t fall behind.

DECEMBER

Finals

learning about your industry and ﬁguring out your career. Understand what it means to seek out a mentor and initiate connections and that they can be a crucial component in securing a career when the time comes. You may get caught up in the allure of new friends and no parents, but don’t forget why you’re here — to get an education and set yourself up for success.

FEBRUARY

Apply for summer internships

Internships are a great way for college students to gain experience and build their resume while in school. Many summer internship deadlines are in March, so be resourceful. Keep an eye out for ﬂiers

on campus, look at job boards and establish contacts.

MARCH

Apply for housing

There are tons of housing options on and around campus, but that’s because there’s tons of students at ASU. Get on it early to ensure you don’t end up homeless next semester.

where one-on-one time is hard to come by. Use this time to talk to your professor about how to pass the class, clarify any questions you have about assignments or check in to make sure you’re not ﬂunking.

MAY Finals

Make sure you know the exact times and dates of your ﬁnal exams several weeks before you have to take them. Give yourself ample time to study separately for each one. Set priorities for yourself and be aware of what you have to do for each test. Some courses will have a ﬁnal essay, while others will be a presentation or multiple-choice exam.

JANUARY

Network

Establishing relationships with your professors and professionals in your ﬁeld will be a huge piece of the puzzle when it comes to gaining experience,

APRIL

Attend ofﬁce hours

Professors hold ofﬁce hours so students can approach them with individual questions or concerns. This is especially fundamental for large lecture halls,

Don’t let yourself forget how important and difficult finals were the first time around. Use that experience to prepare for round two of your exams. Summer may be a stone’s throw away, but don’t lose sight of your priorities. Then give yourself some serious credit. You just survived your first year of college. CT

Prof

ASU AESTHETIC

HOW TO DRESS FOR YOUR FIRST SUMMER AS A SUN DEVIL

RACHEL HAGERMAN • COLLEGE TIMES

You walk into your ﬁrst afternoon class at ASU praying your deodorant works. Sweat starts to show around your armpits and on your lower back from your short walk to class. You realize a gray polyester T-shirt probably wasn’t the best idea, and you try not to attract too much attention for the rest of the lecture

Hopefully, this won’t be you on your ﬁrst day. However, summer is here, and temps can rise to over 100 degrees. If you want to survive this heat, you’ll have to learn how to dress in the boiling temperatures. Luckily, you won’t have to sacriﬁce great fashion. There are several ways to stay both stylish and comfortable this summer.

DON’T SWEAT IT

When choosing outﬁts for the summertime, stick to cotton and linen clothing. Both fabrics are breathable, dry quickly and will keep you from walking around campus in sweaty clothes.

THROW SHADE

Summer is a great excuse for guys and girls to show off their sunglasses. They

are a great accessory to add to any outﬁt to express your unique style and protect your eyes from Arizona’s harsh

sunlight.

tops… and rompers.” Sophomore Claire Jordan has also noticed “lots of crop tops and short shorts” during the summer months at ASU.

SUNS OUT, BUNS OUT

For both men and women with long hair, pull it back into a braid, bun or ponytail. There’s a recent trend at ASU: Girls wear a top knot half-down hairstyle. This fashionably messy hairdo keeps some of your hair off your neck to help cool you down a bit throughout the day.

RAINDROPS, CROP TOPS

Contrary to popular belief, Sun Devils wear more than just shorts and T-shirts. Recent ASU graduate Divya Amrelia explains, “Lots of people wear muscle tanks cut down the sides so the sports bra is showing. Most girls in sororities sport their sorority tanks and bags, lots of crop

SUNDRESS FOR SUCCESS

If you’re in the mood for dressing up a little, casual but comfortable sundresses are also great for keeping cool. Not only do they make it look like you’re making an effort, but they are also easy to ﬁnd and wear. If you stick to clothes like sundresses that fall away from your body, there will be less fabric touching your skin, which will keep you cooler.

TREND GAME

Although it’s nice to be in the know when it comes to the latest trends, Amrelia advises, “Don’t be afraid to experiment with clothing in college because you don’t always need to go with the trend.” CT

UNDECLARED:

Heading into college with an undeclared major and no idea on a prospective profession? No need to panic. Thousands of incoming freshmen just like you have yet to figure out their future. College is an incredible experience and one that can help even the most clueless find their career. Don’t be deterred; there are several tips to find the right major for you.

A GUIDE TO CHOOSING YOUR MAJOR

SHANE DEGROTE • COLLEGE TIMES

PRACTICALITY

As mentioned, a lot of us would love to major in sleeping. However, what sort of jobs would be waiting for us after graduation? While not many young people enjoy thinking long-term, it’s a necessity in college. When deciding on a major, think about the current job market for that particular degree. You don’t want to pay for an education that gets you nowhere.

FAMILY AND PEERS

When in doubt, ask your family and friends. Whoever knows you best can give the most honest advice on your skills and weaknesses. Understanding your strengths and shortcomings can serve as a quick-start guide in your search for a major.

PREREQUISITES

Selecting classes when undeclared can be difﬁcult; however, there are several foolproof ways to get you closer to graduation and open your eyes to a future career. Prerequisites are necessary for everyone to graduate, and while they can vary depending on your major, most degrees have the same prereqs. These are the ENG 101s and MAT 150s of your college career. Taking these courses early can help you navigate your way through college without wasting your money.

PASSION

First and foremost, go after a major you are passionate about. Unfortunately, “sleeping” isn’t a major, but there are plenty of other great choices out there. Visit your college’s website and look at the undergraduate academic degrees offered. Love talking to people? Try communications. Always wondered how we can better protect the planet? Sustainability might just be for you. Meeting with your advisor and going over possible degrees will get you one step closer to ﬁnding the right major.

ELECTIVES

Electives are another part of the curriculum required for graduation. These are usually creative classes that are instrumental in discovering your passions. Finding courses that intrigue and interest you will certainly beneﬁt your venture into deciding a major.

QUIZZES

Lastly, if you are truly lost in all things regarding your future, perhaps a major quiz is for you. Found online and in person, these quizzes can help you narrow down your options based on personal questions regarding your passions, goals and career interests. Beware, Buzzfeed is not the place to ﬁnd these. CT

LAUNDRY QUANDARY

5 TIPS TO HELP YOU SURVIVE THE COMMUNAL LAUNDRY ROOM

“Desperate times call for desperate measures” is a mantra most college students can relate to on some level. You might mutter it when you drink your weight in coffee for a late study sesh or when you live off Cup Noodles and dining hall pizza for a semester straight. It shouldn’t be something you say every two months when you run out of underwear and grudgingly drag 30 loads of dirty clothes to the communal laundry room. Without parental guidance and a whole ﬂoor of lazy college students with the same

approach, it’s paramount to know the most efﬁcient way to do laundry so the only heavy load you have to deal with is your classes.

GIVE YOURSELF ENOUGH TIME

Choose a time when your schedule is empty and the washers and dryers are likely to be vacant. Early bird? Wash your clothes before class. Night owl? Go when everyone else is sleeping. Pro tip: Avoid the laundry room like the plague on Sunday afternoons.

CA$H COUNT$!

HOW TO MANAGE YOUR MONEY IN COLLEGE

Being a college student is all about ballin’ on a budget, but you’ll need to find a way to stash your cash. That means an upgrade from your childhood piggy bank is definitely in order. Knowing your options when it comes to organizing your finances is essential, and will make your life much easier. You can bank on it.

1. Do your research. There are a handful of banks that offer checking accounts catered to college students. These accounts can include no or low balance minimums, reduced fees and free checks. Shop around online and compare banks and credit unions to ﬁnd the best match for your individual ﬁnancial needs. Take time to sit down with a banker who can explain the options and methods of opening an account and getting a debit card.

ALWAYS CHECK THE LINT TRAP

In addition to reducing the risk of ﬁre, this simple but oft-forgotten tip also helps dry your clothes. A full lint trap reduces airﬂow, requiring more time for the dryer to perform its duty. This also overlaps with cleanliness in shared spaces. Always show courtesy, clean up after yourself and throw away your dryer sheets.

PRETREAT STAINS

Let’s be real — things will probably get a little messy during your college career. Stay ready by always having stain remover on deck, whether it’s a spray or a stick. If your clothes are trashed, prerinsing can help you feel fresh and clean without leaving a mess behind.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT DETERGENT

Choosing a detergent

2. Beware of overdraft fees. When you open an account, you will have the option to get overdraft protection, which is a safety net if you’re running low on dough. If you opt for overdraft protection, the bank will charge a fee if you use your card without sufﬁcient funds so the purchase won’t be declined. Most banks have apps and websites where you can check your account, so you can always keep tabs on how much you spend.

4. Stay safe. To avoid theft, keep all your ﬁnancial information in a safe and secure place or consider doing all your banking online. When setting up a PIN for your debit card, make sure it’s something difﬁcult to guess (i.e., not your birthday) and don’t share it with anyone.

5. Choose a bank with a mobile app. This way, you can check your account statements, transfer money and even deposit checks using the camera on your smartphone. Make sure to also sign up for messages and alerts that will let you know about changes to your account, and when your balance is low. CT

3. Give credit where credit is due. Credit cards can be a slippery slope. Building credit early on can help you in the long run when ﬁnancing a car or renting an apartment, but it can also send you into a spiral of debt if you’re not careful.

for an adult. News ﬂash: You’re an adult now. Our advice: ASU uses high-efﬁciency equipment, so you’re likely to want high-

efﬁciency detergent. This cleans your clothes well while reducing impact on the environment.

RETRIEVE YOUR CLOTHES IN A TIMELY FASHION

There is a whole ﬂoor of students in need of fresh clothes and a limited supply of washers and dryers. Always set a timer, be prepared to transfer your clothes to the dryer and pick them up when they’re done. The sooner you fold or hang your clothes, the less you have to worry about those dreaded wrinkles. Leaving wet clothes in a heap can also lead to mold. The only thing that should be growing right now is your GPA. CT

MURAL, MURAL ON THE WALL

Posters are the quintessential dorm room accessory, whether your aesthetic is Bohemian chic hideaway or bachelor HQ. However, the struggle can get real when it comes to ﬁnding one that accurately captures your essence. When in doubt, DIY. Pick a personalized image or design, put it on a ﬂash drive and ask for am engineering print (up to 36 x 90 inches) at a copy center. Use some doublesided tape, 3M Velcro or sticky tack to secure it on the wall and say “boy, bye” to those basic walls.

SQUARED AWAY

Feel #instagood IRL by printing out your favorite IG photos through companies like Social Print Studio, Prinstagram

DORM EDITION EXTREME MAKEOVER:

HOW TO TRANSFORM YOUR DORM ROOM FROM CRAMPED TO COZY

MADISON RUTHERFORD • COLLEGE TIMES

College movies have romanticized and fueled outrageous notions about spacious college cribs with loft beds, large windows and lush carpet. Plot twist: Bare walls (and barely enough room to breathe) are a more realistic representation.

Dorm life is less than glamorous, but there are ways to convert a conﬁned space into a sanctuary. You might have to learn the hard way what a sock on the doorknob means, but we’ve got you covered when it comes to personalizing and organizing your dorm.

or PostalPix. Display the squares on a wall or bulletin board or pick up some clothespins and twine from a craft store to create a picture clothesline.

PRETTY FLY FOR A CACTI

Let’s face it, not everyone has a green thumb — especially when trying to navigate the ﬁrst year of college. Ain’t nobody got time for that. If you think you’d make a negligent plant parent, succulents and cacti are a great way to nurture some nature in your dorm room with minimal maintenance.

CHOOSE THE RUG LIFE

Dorm carpeting can often be uncomfortable and dull. Get several shag rugs to add some luxury to

a drab dorm room. Buying a few cheap rugs is also a great way to protect your carpet if — ahem, when — you accidentally spill something on the ﬂoor.

KEEP IT LIT

The ﬂuorescent lights that adorn dorm room ceilings are far from romantic. Whether you’re bringing back your Tinder crush or just trying to get down on some studying, consider changing the game w ith Christmas lights, battery-operated candles or paper lanterns.

RAISE THE ROOF

You’ll quickly ﬁnd there’s little to no room in the tiny cracker box you now call home, so ﬁnding a place to stash your stuff calls for creative solutions. Invest in bed risers to lift your bed and allow for

additional storage (and breathing room). It’s also wise to have storage bins in varying sizes on hand. Depending on the height of your bed and the furniture provided, you may also be able to slide your dresser or bedside table underneath, or create the ultimate movie-watching den with extra pillows and blankets.

PILLOW TALK

Whether you’re sleeping or studying, you’ll spend a lot of time on the bed in your dorm room, despite the fact that it will probably feel like laying on a cardboard box. Pillows of various shapes and ﬁrmness are crucial for maximum comfort. Decorative pillows and pillow cases will also help make your dorm feel less like a prison cell and more like a palace. CT

Valley Metro is your best option for getting to class or having fun. Whether you live in Tempe or downtown Phoenix, all you need is your U-Pass to ride Valley Metro Rail wherever you need to go. Instead of watching traffic, you can watch game highlights, catch up on social media, listen to music or finish your last-minute homework.

WORK IT

USING SKILLZ TO PAY BILLZ (I.E., GETTING A JOB)

College comes with a lot of responsibilities. Whether you live in a dorm on campus or in a nearby apartment, this marks the first time most students are living on their own. Balance is important —if you want to play hard, you have to work even harder. Whether it’s your

WHERE TO FIND A JOB

They don’t grow on trees

Depending on how many credits you’re taking, you may be able to fit in a part-time job during the weekend or after class. Even if it’s just a few hours, that extra spending money can really help. Here are a few places to look for a job:

• Off-campus jobs

Tempe is a bustling college town and there are plenty of companies looking to hire young, energetic, responsible and intelligent students. The farther you travel, the more likely you are to find a job. But just a crosswalk away are coffee shops, retail stores and restaurants looking for back-to-school help. If you have a car, you’ll be able to go even further — Uber, maybe?

• Check Craigslist or LinkedIn

Use your resources and look online for jobs, but be careful. Sometimes online ads can be scams. However, there are lots of local offices looking for receptionists and file clerks. You might even be

able to find something you can do right from your bedroom, like web design or freelance writing.

• On-campus jobs

ASU is practically run by student workers. If you walk through Memorial Union or the Sun Devil Fitness Complex, you’ll see plenty of students staffing the eateries, information desks and equipment rooms. Check with the Student Resources Center, Memorial Union, bookstore or the Sun Devil online job portal and snag that position.

WHY YOU SHOULD HAVE A JOB

The benefits of working while in school

College isn’t easy, and with a large workload, new responsibilities and budding friendships, it’s hard to think about squeezing in more work. But with tuition rising, student loan debt looming and all kinds of personal expenses, adding a parttime job might be the way to go. If you’re still unsure about getting a job, here are some benefits to think

cell phone bill, pizza addiction or the “essential” morning iced coffee, you’ve got to come up with the cash. Even kegs and beer pong cups cost money. Keeping all this in mind, a job might be the best way to go.

about:

• Most college students work.

Whether as a community assistant, barista or office clerk, you’ll find most of your friends have jobs. A 2015 study from Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce found that 70 to 80 percent of college students over the past 25 years have had a job while in school. This study also showed that students who work while in school are more likely to get a degree than those who just study.

• It teaches time management skills. While too much work can detract from your school performance, finding the right balance can actually be a good thing. Balancing different tasks and schedules teaches a sense of responsibility. A part-time job can also prepare you for your career in the future, whether you’re working in the field you’re studying or just building up knowledge and experience. And while you can’t entirely pay for tuition with a part-time job, the experience provided is

paramount.

• You meet people. A part-time job is a great way to meet other students and people around town. Whether you dabble in giving advice, cracking jokes or bonding over a job well done, working with others will develop your social skills and ability to work with a team. Certain positions allow you to interact with customers as well, providing a bridge to people from all walks of life. You never know — your new coworker might be your new BFF by next week!

• Every job’s got its benefits.

Movie theater ushers score free tickets to new movies while baristas can snag discount coffees for themselves and friends. Every job has its own benefits, whether it’s a flexible schedule alongside classes, free food or even connections to professionals in your field. By working and putting yourself out there, you’ll find your position offers something more than just a weekly paycheck. CT

DAILY GRIND

WHERE TO GET YOUR CAFFEINE AND STUDY FIX

FOR MORNING MOTIVATION

STEVE’S ESPRESSO

This lively cafe has a covered patio, inviting coral-colored walls adorned with artwork and is actually owned by a guy named Steve.

1801 E. Baseline Road, #102, Tempe, 480.777.5373, stevesespresso.com

MAVERICK COFFEE

With simple wooden furniture, plush chairs and couches, plenty of greenery and mellow music, Maverick’s relaxing and rustic vibe makes it a great place to clear your head.

10269 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, 480.634.3665, maverickcoffee.com

GOLD BAR

ESPRESSO

This intimate, homey cafe is known for its coffee,

pastries, live jazz music and game nights.

3141 S. McClintock Drive, Tempe, 480.839.3082, goldbarespresso.org

KING COFFEE

Across the street from ASU Gammage, King Coffee makes it easy to get your caffeine ﬁx on your way to class. The friendly staff and upbeat soundtrack also make it a popular destination for students in the morning. 1020 S. Mill Avenue, Tempe, 480.307.6557, kingcoffeeaz.com

FOR MID-DAY MEET-UPS

LUX CENTRAL

This kaleidoscopic coffeehouse offers wine, beer, cocktails, tea, coffee and a simple yet sophisticated food menu. Lux consists of several rooms with an array of mismatched tables, chairs

and couches that make for the perfect meeting place. 4402 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix, 602.327.1396, luxcoffee.com

CARTEL COFFEE

This hip local roaster is about community as much as it is about coffee. Grab a cappuccino or a cold brew and a few friends and watch baristas roast the coffee beans onsite.

225 W. University Drive, Tempe, 480.621.6381, cartelcoffeelab.com

FAIR TRADE CAFE

Fair Trade has a modern, welcoming atmosphere and specializes in breakfast, sandwiches and locally roasted coffee. The cafe also boasts a community kitchen that allows aspiring chefs to hone their craft while learning about organic and vegetarian resources.

1020 N. 1st Avenue, Phoenix, 602.354.8150, azfairtrade.com

GIANT COFFEE

Single-origin brewed coffee and light fare in a low-key setting make Giant an ideal destination for a study date — or a real date! Stop by between 3 and 6 p.m. for half-price pastries and snag a spot at one of the long wooden tables.

1437 N. 1st Street, Phoenix, 602.396.7215, giantcoffeeaz.com

FOR ALL-NIGHT STUDY SESSIONS

JOBOT COFFEE & BAR

This cozy coffee shop has become an institution in downtown Phoenix, even after moving to a new location a few months ago. Open until midnight on weekdays and 24 hours on the weekends, Jobot is ideal for a group or solo study sesh, with an eclectic menu of coffee, tea and late-night munchies to boot.

333 E. Roosevelt Street, Phoenix, 602.501.9076, jobotcoffee.com

URBAN BEANS BAR & 24 HOUR CAFÉ

Open 24/7 and offering an array of craft coffee, breakfast and lunch items, UB is a comfy and convenient place to camp out and cram for your next exam.

3508 N. 7th Street, #100, Phoenix, 602.595.2244, urbanbeans.com

XTREME BEAN COFFEE CO.

Open until midnight on Friday and Saturday, Xtreme Bean offers a spacious, modern ambience and java from house-roasted beans that make for more than an average cup of joe. 1707 E. Southern Avenue, Tempe, 480.820.0333, xtremebean.wixsite.com/ xtremebean CT

COLLEGE COMMUTE

7 WAYS TO GET TO CAMPUS

Although we all wish we could roll out of bed and into that 8 a.m. calc class, it can be a bit more complicated to commute to campus every day. There are a slew of ways to cruise to class, whether you choose to hop on a bike or bus, or get some fresh air with a leisurely walk (or stressed-out sprint). Whatever route you choose, here are some pro tips for your daily pilgrimage.

LIGHT RAIL

PROS With service to Phoenix and Tempe, Valley Metro’s light rail is a cheap and convenient choice for students who have classes on both the downtown and Tempe campuses. It also offers a park-and-ride option, so students don’t have to waste time looking for a parking spot or spend money on a pass on campus.

CONS The light rail occasionally comes sooner or later than expected. Download the NextRide app to make sure you’re always one step ahead.

COST Cop an all-day pass for $4 or a one-way for $2. Monthly and weekly passes are also available. The most cost-effective option for students, however, is the $200 U-Pass, which provides unlimited light rail rides for the entire school year.

BIKE, LONGBOARD OR SKATEBOARD

PROS If you live close to campus, a quick bike or board trip is the most efficient way to commute. Whether you prefer two wheels or four, you won’t have to deal with delays.

CONS If you live more than a mile from campus, traveling with a bike or skateboard might be more

sweat and stress than it’s worth. Carrying your deck into a crowded lecture hall or looking for a spot to lock up your cruiser may not be worth the hassle. Plus, bobbing and weaving through throngs of students on campus can be a major inconvenience.

COST If you already own a bicycle or skateboard (or can borrow your roommate’s!), this mode of transit is 100 percent free. Hit up local spots like Cowtown, Sidewalk Surfer, State RideShop or Sonoran Cycles to get set up or check Craigslist for used skateboard decks or fixie frames you can repurpose.

WALKING

PROS Walking to class is a great way to get exercise and experience the wonderful weather Arizona has to offer (most of the year).

CONS For a couple months out of the year, walking to campus will seem like the worst decision you’ve ever made. If it’s over 100 degrees, grab your keys… and blast the AC!

COST This form of transportation only comes at the cost of occasional heatstroke.

CAR

PROS Beauty sleep! Driving to campus will

usually allow you to sleep in a little bit later than any other mode of transportation. This will come in clutch on those days you can’t bear to part with your pillow.

CONS Parking passes for all campuses will cost you an arm and a leg, but some extra shuteye might be worth it.

COST Purchasing a parking pass can range from $200 to $800, depending on the distance from campus. The good news is, you can use student aid money to pay for parking. Score!

SHUTTLES

PROS ASU intercampus shuttles transport students, faculty and staff between the downtown Phoenix, Polytechnic, Tempe and West campuses. Bicycle and wheelchair accommodations are available on all buses, which run every 30 minutes from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

CONS Students must live close to one of the shuttle stops and make time for delays.

COST The shuttle is free with an ASU Sun Card.

BUS

PROS There is at least one Valley Metro bus stop at each of the four ASU campuses, and bus routes usually can be routed from anywhere in the Valley. Plus, the bus is great for people-watching.

CONS With frequent, lurching stops, strange smells and loud noises, the bus isn’t for the faint of heart.

COST Hop on the bus for $2 or buy an all-day pass for $4. A weekly pass will cost you $20. Passes good for 31 days cost $64. Yearlong U-Passes are also available for $200.

RIDESHARING APPS

PROS Using Uber or Lyft gives you the luxury of driving to school minus the pain of parking. If you’re running late, calling a car can quickly get you as close to your class as possible.

CONS Paying for your own personal chauffer on the regular can get pretty pricey.

COST Price will vary depending on where you get picked up, but this method will probably end up being the most expensive. CT