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Starting college is a huge milestone — congrats! Whether you’re moving into a dorm, commuting from home, or taking classes online, the transition into college life can feel exciting, overwhelming, and everything in between.

But don’t worry: you’ve got this. With the right mindset, smart planning, and helpful tools (including your bank), you can thrive during your first year. This freshman survival guide is packed with practical tips on staying organized, managing money, and building a strong foundation for college success.

1. Get Involved Early

College is about more than just classes; it’s also about connection. Getting involved early helps you build a sense of community, reduce stress, and make the most of your experience.

Ways to get connected:

• Join clubs, intramurals, or student orgs that match your interests
• Attend campus events — even if you’re shy (remember, everyone’s new!)
• Connect with classmates through study groups or online forums
• Consider volunteering or working a part-time job to meet new people and build your résumé

2. Stay Safe on Campus

Personal safety is key to peace of mind. Make sure you’re prepared from day one.

Campus safety tips:

• Save the campus security number in your phone
• Use shuttles or walk with friends after dark
• Keep your dorm room locked and valuables stored securely
• Be mindful of what you share online or via text

Middlefield Bank’s mobile banking alerts and fraud monitoring tools can help protect your account from suspicious activity while you’re focusing on school.

3. Master Time Management

College schedules can feel more flexible than high school, but that flexibility can be tricky. Without structure, it’s easy to fall behind.

Time management strategies:

• Use a planner or digital calendar to keep track of assignments, exams, and events
• Break larger projects into smaller, manageable steps
• Build in time for sleep, meals, and breaks to avoid burnout
• Try the Pomodoro technique (25-minute focus blocks with 5-minute breaks) to stay productive

Schedule your finances, too — like weekly check-ins on your bank account or monthly money reviews.

4. Budgeting Basics for Students

College is the perfect time to build lifelong money habits. Even if your budget is small, learning how to manage it can reduce stress and keep you in control.

How to get started:

• Track your weekly spending with Middlefield Bank’s mobile banking app
• Set spending limits for food, entertainment, and supplies
• Use student discounts and take advantage of free campus resources
• Open a student-friendly checking account to easily manage your money online or on the go

Looking for an account that works for students? Middlefield’s checking accounts offer digital tools and real-time spending alerts.

5. Smart Borrowing and Building Credit

If you need financial aid, make sure you borrow responsibly. Middlefield Bank partners with College Ave Student Loans to offer competitive student loan options for both students and parents.

• Only borrow what you need—avoid overestimating
• Understand repayment terms, interest rates, and deferment options
• Consider a co-signer to potentially improve your loan offer
• Review your loan status each semester and adjust if needed

Want to start building credit now? Middlefield Bank offers options like the Secured Platinum Visa® and CashRewards Platinum Visa® — great for building credit history safely with fraud protection, mobile payment options, and rewards.

6. Mental Health and Self-Care Tips

College life can be stressful, especially during your first year. Being proactive about your mental well-being is just as important as managing your money or time.

Ways to support your mental health:

• Make time for rest, hobbies, and hanging out with friends
• Visit on-campus counseling or download a mental health support app
• Try mindfulness or journaling to reduce anxiety and stay grounded
• Don’t hesitate to ask for help — your professors, advisors, and friends are part of your support system

Remember: You don’t have to figure everything out alone. You’ve got resources — and people — ready to help.

Your College Journey Starts Here

College is a big adjustment, but with smart habits and a little support, you can set yourself up for long-term success. Middlefield Bank is here to help you every step of the way — with checking accounts, student loans, mobile banking tools, and credit cards built for your life.

Ready to start building your future with confidence? Visit middlefieldbank.bank to explore your student banking options today.
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