Student Life >> Browse Articles >> Social Life
A Dad's List of Advice for College Students
Sometimes, a father knows best. A dad offers advice to college students.
By Glen Soden
April 21, 2009
1. Beware of studying in bed – always better to sit up (otherwise it is too easy to fall asleep while reading or studying).
2. Eat healthy and exercise, even and especially during preparation for exams or papers.
3. Eat breakfast.
4. Watch your sleep – get enough.
5. Value friendships.
6. Attempt to develop at least one ongoing dialogue with a professor, assistant professor, instructor or graduate assistant.
7. Get to know the community.
8. Be aware of your surroundings.
9. Keep Greek or independent life in perspective.
10. Give yourself a break once in awhile and don’t be afraid to admit mistakes.
11. Use college/university to explore intellectually as you may discover interests and talents you never knew.
12. Vary where you study, don’t always study in your room, use the library as well.
13. Remember careers can change and so can majors.
14. Be positive and use the value of humor.
Glenn Soden is the father of two daughters. One recently graduated from the University of Pennsylvania and the other from Duke University and Boston University’s Dental School.

ShaliniJ3
11 months ago
I am a junior pursuing chemical engineering, but I find it very boring and I am basically miserable. is it because i am lazy or because i really don't like the subject? i am confused.
ShaliniJ3
11 months ago
I am a junior pursuing chemical engineering, but I find it very boring and I am basically miserable. is it because i am lazy or because i really don't like the subject? i am confused.
tom0571
over 1 year ago
I love that you are so open and accessible, Joan. And I ESPECIALLY loved getting a hug from you (and being able to scritch Sadie under the chin) the other night. Truly, you represent the new democratization of media, and I love you for that.look mysite: http://www.ejaisolar.com/
susanquan
over 1 year ago
Great advice !! I would add... look for smart people to form a study group.
charles73
over 1 year ago
Great advices there, it's not like my dad, he just told me not cause any trouble and mind my own buisness.Well at least he pays for school so can't complain.
shokdk25
almost 2 years ago
my dad's "advice" : "ur not getting a car, ur not getting a job, ur not going to college and ur not going to graduate!" and this was right after i got my acceptance letter to NYU, my Cap n Gown, and an appointment interview with Disney World. all i asked for was a car that i was promised in January! FML
KelechiE5
about 2 years ago
Wow!
Thanks for your advice, dad!
ceciof2010
about 2 years ago
THANKS FOR THE ADVICE!!! CONGRATS TO YOUR DAUGHTERS AND TO YOURSELF FOR BEING THERE FOR THEM
ThienThanh
about 2 years ago
Thank for your advice. HAPPY NEW YEAR!
nisha_jn
about 2 years ago
wat an awesome dad xD
valarie222004
about 2 years ago
This is such excellent advice and I am so proud of your daughters graduating from college and aiming for success! I wish you the best of luck dad and your family!!
Dnestor2010
over 2 years ago
Great advice, Dad!!!
Heather
almost 3 years ago
Great advice!