Aside from entrance exams and interviews, students need to get themselves mentally and emotionally ready for college, especially when it comes to the major they are taking. There's no better way to do this than reading books that will prepare them for the next level. Here are some books recommended by professors and professionals that will prove helpful to soon-to-be college students.

The Iliad by Homer

The Iliad is not an easy read and that's a fact. However, it's one of the best epic poems which makes it a must-read, especially for students who are heading to Columbia University because it is one of their required reading for all freshmen students. Most of all, this is a good chance to get acquainted with all the heroes of the Trojan War and get the first-hand information about the woman whose face had launched a thousand ships.

Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami

Haruki Murakami is one of the most compelling authors in the past four decades and Norwegian Wood is a good start for those who are not familiar with his works. It is short but nonetheless compelling and powerful.

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams

One of the most original and funniest books of all times. It has never failed to win readers once they start reading it. Although it's a five-book series, the first one is always the best as it is depressing and funny at the same time. The book became so popular that an international holiday called Towel Day was created to celebrate Adams.

The Fight Club by Chuck Palahniuk

Those who watched the movie are missing out big time if they haven't read the book yet. For one, the book is much better than the movie as was always the case. Palahniuk is one of the American authors with a unique style and those who read one of his works get hooked and end up buying some of his works.

Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro

Never Let Me Go is a dystopian novel by Japan-born British author Kazuo Ishiguro which is a cross between Jane Austen and George Orwell. It is heartbreakingly beautiful that those who read it can't help the tears falling.