How much spending money does a freshman need?

SmithieandProud
Sun, 17 Jun 2007 17:11:01 +0000

It’s true it will vary, and coming from a stenuous environment like the Japanese school system, you will probably be less challenged than some mohos (or smithies). But just know that college will be different, no matter what your academic preparation. It might not be harder, but it will be more of an adjustment than you think. It is very difficult to explain it, but you will know it when you experience it.

Because of this sort of “intangible” adjustment phase, I think it’s a bad idea to start off with too heavy of a load. Plus, you have four years, no need to rush. At Smith you get to drop one class for free your first year, so if you absolutely must take extra credits, see if you can handle it and if it’s too much, drop something.