Lauren Smyth Archives

So What Exactly Happens at College?

Join me for a (dramatized) Thursday-in-the-life of a college student with a job, a caffeine addiction, and an upcoming exam.

Nine Things You Shouldn’t Buy for College

Your suitcase, your dorm room closet, and whoever has to carry your luggage to the dorm from the parking lot will thank you.

Your First Day at College

Are you one of those students who has recurring nightmares about showing up late on the first day? Here’s the checklist you’ve been looking for!

The Ultimate College Packing List

“Mom, do you think we need to buy another set of dishes? Or is three enough?” Here’s a guide to the ultimate college packing list.

Books Are Heavy, So Here’s How to Carry Them

The Instagram influencers you’ve seen carrying a tote bag to class may be leading you astray. Here’s a comprehensive review of all the bags I’ve tried carrying to campus, plus a few I haven’t.

Six Things You Can Do to Prepare For Move-In

Besides heading to the gym to get stronger arms, here are a few ways you can make the college move-in process a little easier. Because that’s a lot of luggage.

Tough Truths About College (And How to Handle Them)

Like most things, the movies got it all wrong—and that’s okay. What you do in college is totally up to you—and it’s an opportunity to reap tremendous rewards.

How to Do It All

Instead of work-life balance, let’s talk about managing your work-life-GPA-sleeping-eating-staying-sane balance. If you want to not only do it all, but do it all well, here’s what you need to know.

Digital vs. Traditional Note-Taking: Which Is Better for You?

Welcome back to the battle between iPads and notebooks—and a few less traditional alternatives. Erasable ink, anyone?

For Planning Purposes: Make No Plans

The best-laid plans of mice and men don’t stand a chance against the opportunities, challenges, and new experiences of college—and that’s OK.

So You’ve Committed to Hillsdale. Now What?

After taking pictures, buying a sweatshirt, and telling all your relatives about your future alma mater, these are the next steps you should take to prepare for the move to college.

It’s the Little Things

Hillsdale College students must sign the Honor Code during their first few days on campus. What does that commitment mean for how they spend their next four years?