579: 5 Core Skills Every Student Needs BEFORE Day One of College

The College Prep Podcast

College admissions are behind us and it’s time to check out and enjoy summer, right? Wrong. This summer is your secret weapon. Why? Because getting into college is just step one. The next challenge is making it all the way to graduation—and most students aren’t ready.

In this episode, we break down the five core skills every student needs to build before they step on campus, based on what actually leads to success, retention, and confidence during the first year.

Here’s what we cover:

• How to start the semester strong with systems, schedules, and academic setup
• Why learning in college is completely different—and how to prepare for it
• How to build daily routines and time management habits before things get overwhelming
• Where to find connection and support in the first six weeks (because community = success)
• What it really means to study effectively in college—and how to avoid the common traps

Most students are missing at least one of these pillars. And they try to figure it out while juggling classes, deadlines, and a new life on their own. We don’t recommend that.

That’s exactly why we created LAUNCH, our summer prep program for students who want to hit the ground running. It’s packed with the tools, coaching, and guidance students need to feel ready—not just accepted.

Learn more about the program and join us: almamodern.com/launch

Have a question? Email us at [email protected] or comment on YouTube (@CollegePrepPodcast)—we might feature your question in a future episode.

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