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Standing
in long lines in the admissions building might
be a drag, but there's lots to do to keep you
occupied and stress-free!
Earn an "A" in Waiting 101
by Stephanie Martinez
August 2001
The CollegeBound Network NewsClick -- When you
get a craving for Ben & Jerry's Kaberry Kaboom
ice cream, does it matter that you have to stand
in a long line just to place your order? Do you
find yourself getting frustrated waiting around
to purchase J. Lo's latest CD? Of course not!
After all, you've got to satisfy your stomach
and music cravings, right?!
That's the same kind of attitude
you'll want to take when summer break ends, school
begins, and those inevitable admission lines await
your presence. You may dread the thought of standing
on line to register for classes, but it's a college
fact of life.
So, what's the solution to
dealing with long lines, you ask?! Jonathan Sims,
a junior at Howard University, Washington, DC,
suggests putting on a happy face to keep your
cool.
"Smile when you get to the
front of the line," advises Jonathan, who
once worked in the administration office. "A
simple hello makes a big difference in the treatment
and attention you get."
And what about before you
even get to your 'line' destination? Angela Daniels,
a Student Support Services counselor at Norfolk
State University, Norfolk, VA, says you may want
to stock up on water bottles. "The weather is
still warm when students are registering, changing
courses and getting their financial aid papers
in order," Daniels says. "The body can
dehydrate, so drink a lot of water."
Don't skip breakfast, either.
Try to eat a proper meal -- we wouldn't want you
to collapse, especially if you're the next person
to be helped. More practically, Daniels also suggests
having your paperwork organized.
"Make copies of everything
[you need] and keep it all in one folder. Be sure
to take every document with you," she emphasizes.
This prevents you from having to get off one long
line to get a form from another one, and then
having to start all over again. It also saves
others from sending mean looks your way because
you're holding up the line.
To pass the time, Natalie
Powell, a nursing major at Norfolk State University,
believes employing a 'buddy system' into your
day of long line lounging can relieve unwanted
tension and stress.
"Bring crossword puzzles
and a friend to talk to," she suggests. "It'll
make you forget your frustrations."
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