The College FAQ You Actually Need — 20 Questions Answered

The questions everyone asks but nobody answers clearly.

I kept a list of questions freshmen asked me during my first semester. By the end of the year, it was 47 pages. Here are the ones I get asked most often, answered plainly.

ACADEMIC QUESTIONS

What's the difference between a lecture and a discussion section?

A lecture is where the professor teaches 200 people at once. A discussion section (usually called a "lab" or "recitation") is where a TA goes over the material with a smaller group. The lecture is required. Discussion sections are sometimes optional but usually not — check your syllabus.

What are office hours and why should I care?

Office hours are free tutoring time with your professor or TA. You can literally just show up during their posted hours and ask questions. This is not optional or weird — it's an expected part of college. Go if you're confused about anything. Most professors WANT you to come.

What's a syllabus and why does it matter?

The syllabus is the contract between you and your professor. It says what the class is about, when things are due, how you're graded, and what the attendance policy is. Read it completely the first day. It answers 90% of your questions before you even ask them.

How do I know if I'm taking too many classes?

A rough rule: 15 credit hours of classes = 45 hours of work per week (classes + studying). If you're also working, subtract 10-15 hours per week from what you can handle. If you're struggling after the first week, drop a class. Most schools let you drop without penalty until mid-semester.

What's the difference between a major and a minor?

A major is your main focus (40-60 credit hours). A minor is optional (20-30 credit hours). You need a major to graduate. A minor is nice but not required. You can have one major and zero, one, or two minors.

MONEY QUESTIONS

When do I file FAFSA and why does it matter?

FAFSA opens October 1. File then, not in January. The earlier you file, the more financial aid is available. Your school might have a priority deadline (often November or December). Missing that deadline means less money. File in October.

What's the difference between grants and loans?

Grants are free money you don't have to pay back. Loans are money you have to pay back with interest. Grants are better. Always accept grants first, then loans if you need more.

Can I change my meal plan?

Yes, usually in the first 2 weeks of the semester. Check your school's housing website for the deadline. If you realize your meal plan is too much or too little, change it.

How much should I budget for textbooks?

Depends on your major. STEM majors: $400-800/semester. Liberal arts: $200-400/semester. But you can cut this in half by renting, buying used, or checking the library first.

Do I have to buy textbooks from the campus bookstore?

No. The campus bookstore is usually the most expensive option. Check Amazon, Chegg, your library, and other students first. You'll save hundreds.

What student discounts actually exist?

A lot. Apple Music ($4.99/month), Spotify ($4.99/month), Amazon Prime ($7.49/month), Adobe Creative Cloud (50% off), Microsoft Office (free or heavily discounted), most museums, public transit, phone plans, software, and more. Ask about student discounts everywhere. Most companies have them.

DORM & LIVING QUESTIONS

What's actually essential for a dorm room?

A mattress topper (seriously, buy this), sheets, a desk lamp, a small fan, toiletries, medications, and clothes. That's it. Everything else is optional. Your dorm room is 80 square feet — you don't have space for much.

How do I handle a difficult roommate?

Have a conversation in the first week. Be specific: "I need quiet after 10 PM" instead of "You're too loud." Be kind but direct. If it doesn't get better, talk to your RA. That's literally their job.

Can I have a mini-fridge and microwave in my dorm?

Check your student handbook. Most schools allow one mini-fridge and one microwave per room. Some have restrictions on size or wattage. Ask before you buy.

Is it normal to be homesick?

Yes. It usually gets better after the first month. Call home, make friends, get involved in clubs. It helps. If it doesn't get better, talk to your school's counseling center.

SOCIAL & GENERAL QUESTIONS

How do I make friends in college?

Join clubs, go to events, talk to people in your classes and dorm. Friends happen naturally when you're around people regularly. It takes a few weeks. Don't stress if you don't have a friend group by week two — most people don't.

Is it okay to not go out on weekends?

Yes. College is not required to be a constant party. Some people go out every weekend. Some people never do. Both are normal. Do what you actually want to do.

What should I do if I'm struggling mentally?

Talk to someone. Your school has a counseling center (usually free). You can also call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline anytime. Struggling is normal. Getting help is smart, not weak.

How often should I do laundry?

When you run out of clean clothes. For most people, that's once a week. Bring enough clothes for 2 weeks so you're not doing laundry every 3 days. You'll have time for other things.

What's the deal with Greek life?

Fraternities and sororities are clubs you can join. They're not required. Some people love them. Some people skip them entirely. Both paths are completely fine. If you're interested, rush during the designated period. If you're not interested, don't worry about it.

The Bottom Line

Most of your questions have answers. Your professor's office hours, your RA, your school's website, and the financial aid office are all resources. Use them. That's what they're there for.

You're not supposed to know everything. Asking questions is how you figure it out.