First Semester

Our straight "A" senior, who's leaving the nest this summer, was shocked to learn that her bedroom will not become an untouched shrine celebrating her youthful memory. On the contrary, the room will be immediately hollowed, painted and redecorated into a lovely uncluttered guest room. As a new college student, she'll have to start saving quarters for the coin-op laundry mat, and remember to call first before dropping by. I'm breaking her plate. Fortunately, First Semester, which interviews many college freshmen, who openly discuss their experiences and candidly offer advice about surviving that first year, will help her or any other high school student make a smooth transition. Topics include the myth vs. the reality of college life (isn't this, like, party central?!?), balancing freedom and responsibility, money management, effective time scheduling, safety issues on campus, the care and feeding of roommates, as well as identifying resources that will put first semester students in the zone. Well spoken interviewees, strong production values, and a hip on-camera host make this program an appealing aid for college bound high schoolers. As for me, I can join a support group of some kind, maybe wait a year or two to redecorate our daughter's room, and only do her laundry every other Sunday, provided--of course--she stays for dinner. [Note: The accompanying pocket guide is well organized and useful--at least until it vanishes--and, fortunately, isn't mentioned in the tape at all.] Highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (N. Plympton)