HOW TO GET THE MOST OUT OF COLLEGE

A wide-ranging guide to enjoying college in the 21st century.

In his nonfiction debut, Felix draws on the extensive work he’s done with dozens of colleges and interviews he’s conducted with all kinds of students in order to present his readers with a vast amount of practical and personal information broken down into three broad categories: what you need to know before you go, general advice, and more pointed advice to meet the special needs of certain students—all with the aim of maximizing the value everyone can get out of “courses, campus, community, and career.” He notes, for example, how students with disabilities can get the necessary accommodations: “Many accessibility offices can be particularly helpful with the transition to college by orienting you to placement exams, housing options, and your school’s policies and processes—it’s really never too early to get in touch.” Each well-organized chapter includes bulleted points, tips, lined blank spaces for responses to discussion questions, and an ample list of references for further reading. Felix both instructs and supports his readers, reminding them to be patient with important social elements like fitting in or finding friends. He details the benefits and challenges of things like clubs, class projects, sports teams, and other group activities, and he lays out the basics of residence halls. He uses a vibrant, friendly prose style keyed to reduce the intimidation factor of college, and he consistently reassures his readers that “colleges and universities are full of people who want to help you….They are there for the mission and they are there for you.” The resulting atmosphere in the book is one of an open, confidential chat with a sympathetic expert on every aspect of university life. Particularly refreshing is Felix’s emphasis on the potential value of college: In addition to a degree, the college experience should also provide a “guided pathway” to a career.

A knowledgeable, enthusiastic guide packed with strategies and encouragement.