5 Inspirational Books for College Students: Freshman to Senior Year

Between classes, studying, work and a personal life--college is a serious balancing act. No matter what year you're in.

For instance, everything feels foreign during freshman year. You're encountering new situations and the exhilarating experience of being on your own for the first time. It's exciting...but you probably have a lot of questions.

But what about when you reach your junior or senior year? Once more, you're close to a huge life transition. Now you're faced with thoughts about your potential future path.

Here are 5 inspirational books every college student should have around for those times when you need a pick-me-up.

 

Shame Nation: The Global Epidemic of Online Hate

We’re all connected online in today’s world. In fact, most of us are on at least 1-2 social media networks (if not more). Social media is fun, entertaining, and an excellent way to stay in touch with your friends.

Especially since college can mark the first time you’ve ever lived away from your hometown.

But what about the flip side of social media? Like cyberbullying. Privacy concerns. Safety threats.

It can happen to anyone if you're not careful. Shame Nation covers some pretty groundbreaking territory. The authors, Scheff and Schorr, explore the intense backlash and nastiness people can face on social media.

She uses incidents like the 2016 presidential election and high-profile tragedies in recent years to demonstrate how we communicate has changed.

And it’s powerful.

 

The Naked Roommate: And 107 Other Issues You Might Run Into in College

Are you the new kid on campus? Pick up a copy of this book.

Moving into your dorm is thrilling, but once your parents leave? It hits you. You’re alone in a (tiny) room living with a total stranger. It’s totally normal to feel a little homesick in this moment, even if you get along perfectly with your roommate.

The Naked Roommate contains letters, stories, and advice from students who’ve been in your shoes before. Some of the advice might seem obvious but most of the tips are great reminders--they cover just about any topic or challenge you could run into at school.

 

How to Win at College: Surprising Secrets for Success from the Country’s Top Students

Imagine a straight-A college student. What do you think of first?

Many of us picture someone with their head down in a book, studying in every moment of free time. Or we think of a high-achiever in school on a full scholarship. Someone who is obsessed with their GPA.

These scenarios might be true for many people. But what if the key to success in college was simply thinking outside of the box?

Inside this book, you’ll find the strategies used by real-life students to become standout students. Their advice is unique, no-fluff, and unpredictable.

 

Freshman Year of Life

Picture your first year of life away from school. For good.

It’s an exciting thought, but let’s be real--it’s a little intimidating too. You’re trying to find your place in a new professional environment. Maybe you’re moving to a new city. And dating? It can get pretty complicated.

The Freshman Year of Life is a light-hearted and entertaining read. It's full of short essays from young college graduates, making it a great book to have handy when you need a quick pick-me-up for inspiration.

Their stories are honest and relatable. Each essay offers practical advice that’s perfect for any current students, those who are about to graduate, or recent graduates about to enter the “real world” for the first time.

 

The Defining Decade: Why Your Twenties Matter--And How to Make the Most of Them Now

Your 20’s is a rollercoaster ride.

You get to share the fun experiences of your twenties...but it can also be a little overwhelming. Sometimes we feel a little lost in the world or unsure of ourselves.

According to author Dr. Meg Jay, your twenties mean something. In fact, they’ll change your life. In a world where we’re constantly told to live in the moment, this book offers a different perspective on life as a twenty-something today.

What’s her point? While we’re still very young in our twenties, we have the chance to build the foundation for the rest of our lives. Dr. Jay covers that in terms of our career and personal lives.