After arriving at Stern and realizing that I lacked a whole crap-load of life skills, I decided to compile a list of a couple of things that might be nice to have before showing up and expecting things to be showered at your feet.. :)
1. Study Habits
What does this mean? Really, it can be anything so long as you have a something definitive that works and you can commit to. Be it partying till 12am and working until class starts (I don't really suggest this... but hey, if it works for you, great!)
2. Something You Stand For
This can be general, but honestly I think the more specific your motivations, the greater the drive. Life is hard work, and probably wasted work if you have no idea what you want out of it. That's not to say that I knew exactly what I wanted walking in (and I still don't really know exactly) but some general idea will save you from a lot of confusion and headache (which I have currently).
3. Knowledge of Strengths and Weaknesses
Play up your strengths and strengthen the areas in which you're weak, this is more or less common sense.
4. General Knowledge of Pop Culture and Current Events
Knowing all the korean or japanese pop stars isn't really what I'm referring to here. A broader knowledge of different stars on the international spectrum can serve as stepping stones for conversation.
5. Opinions
The stronger the better!
