Well, it’s that time of year. Summer is coming to a close and back to school supplies are selling out at an alarmingly fast rate. This is the first year since 1997 I won’t be buying notebooks, a backpack, or a cute outfit for the first day of school. Since I have some worldly college wisdom, I thought I would pass it on to those in need. Here are a few things to know your freshman year:
1. Get to the dining hall early to beat the crowds.
Like an amusement park or concert, you want to arrive early for the best spot.
2. Your GPA is not super important in the real world.
I can’t tell you how many nights I killed myself to get the GPA I graduated with just to find out it does not really matter in the long run. Strive for the best grades possible, but don’t make yourself develop anxiety in the process.
3. Make friends with the people on your hall.
You will be sharing a close space with these people, so you might as well be on good terms. It may be hard to put yourself out there, but it is totally worth it in the long run.
4. Join EVERYTHING!
Get involved, be social. You can watch Netflix anytime, but you only have four years on campus to make an impact!
5. Bring a reusable water bottle.
I cannot stress how valuable this is, especially if you live in a dorm with no water fountains.
6. Be careful using your microwave.
Every dorm has that one person who sets the fire alarms off at 1:30 a.m. because they were hungry for popcorn or mac and cheese. Do not be that person; watch your microwave use.
7. Get to know your professors.
They are people too, believe it or not. They can help you, not just with classwork, but with career opportunities down the line.
8. Your student ID is useful.
Not only can you get into the dining commons with your ID, but some museums and other places offer discounted rates with your card. (Side note- do not lose your card, you have to pay to replace it.)
9. Pack an umbrella and rain/snow boots.
You will need these walking to class, trust me.
10. You do not have to have everything mapped out already.
If you know what you want and have a concrete plan, I applaud you; however, if you want to change the plan or have no plan, that is okay too. Freshman year, and sometimes a little later, is the time to figure it out.
There is so much more that could be included on this list, but I think these are the most important to survive the first year in college. Enjoy the ride and don’t sweat the small stuff. Now, go ahead and make some memories!