Every year, thousands of students go to college unprepared. Rather than be one of the unlucky, heed the advice of some college pros.

1. Get Professional Help
Just how important are those talks with an academic advisor or counselor? Take it from Amelia Iribarren, a student at Oxnard College, Oxnard, CA.

"Before I went to college, I wish I would have known all of my options," she says. "It would have made me realize that I didn't need to be fully decided on a major -- something I stressed a lot about. Talk with your advisor and make sure you explore all your options before settling on one field of study. Don't feel overwhelmed; there are a lot of people who can help you."

2. Be Aggressive
As frustrating as it can be to pick only one major, it can be even more maddening not to get the classes you want or need. Many universities have trouble with over-enrollment and packed classrooms. But, says James Pashley, a student at Moorpark College, Moorpark, CA, don't let that discourage you.

"Just remember, there is no such thing as a 'closed class.'" Be persistent and show interest in the class -- even if you are told that there is no room available, he says. College students often drop classes a week or two into the semester, leaving open spots for students anxious to take the course.

3. Go Club Crazy
In high school, knowing there would be an exciting game, a charity event, or a newspaper to put to press later helped make the long hours of pop quizzes and homework go by a little quicker. The same holds true in college.

"Get involved in as many programs you feel you might be interested in," advises Robert Donahue, a recent grad of Claremont McKenna College, Claremont, CA. "The opportunities are limitless, and the only way you're going to enjoy yourself is if you participate. Don't leave school not having done the things you would've liked to do."

4. Learn Roommate Etiquette
Living in a dorm is often the most unique experience college students have. When Liz Foster left home to attend the University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, she was excited about the prospect of living away from home. The first few weeks were fine as she settled into a daily routine, but things slowly began to deteriorate in her very own room.

"I wish I had known that it was okay not to like your roommate ... that you didn't have to be best friends," she says. "[My roommate and I] were just very different people and we simply couldn't find common ground. I came from a conservative background and was very interested in studying. She was a party girl who came to college purely for the social scene. I think both of us were equally miserable."

Some suggestions to make roommate life trouble-free all year long:
• Lay down ground rules with your new roommate.
• Let your roommate know if and when you plan to have guests (especially love interests) stay the night.
• Set aside "quiet time" during the week when you can both catch up on assignments.
• Don't be so polite that you completely hide your frustration.
• On the other hand, choose your battles carefully. Remember that this person is probably making one or two sacrifices to live with you, too.

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