Ah, the freedom of being in college. You aren't living with your parents, you don't have to tell anyone where you're going, you can go to the bars on a Tuesday night, and you can wear whatever the hell you want! But having this freedom can be a little overwhelming. All of the responsibility and decisions that you never faced in high school hit you like a semi truck. You don't have anyone to cook you dinner or slide some cash your way when you're broke. College life is hard -- you mess up, you learn, and you forget things.
Call your parents.
Unless you want your parents randomly knocking on your door, you better give them a call. Remind them that you love them and you miss them. Tell them about what you've learned inside the classroom and out. Tell them about the new friends you've met and ask them when they're coming to visit (so you can clean your room). It seems like something very minor but I'm sure it would make their day.
Spend wisely.
Do you really need that new pair of Chacos? And do you really need to go to Moe's every Monday? Being a college kid can be tough on your bank account -- killer! However, if you watch what you're spending and budget wisely it will go a long way. The biggest thing I struggle with is spending money on food. My advice: go to the dinning hall as much as possible -- you're paying for a meal plan, use it!
Be smart.
My mom always told me this when I left my house and it's true! You have to be smart in every decision you make. This is not to say that you have to be right -- there's a difference. Yes, you can be both smart and wrong, those are probably some of the most beneficial experiences. Being smart means using your best judgement, being aware, and knowing your options.
Be kind.
This characteristic is like a muscle -- use it or lose it. It's easy to become so absorbed with your circle of friends and your party scene that you lose sight of your morals and principles. If you learn anything from this article, learn the importance of kindness. Kindness to others and yourself will never be forgotten. Though it sometimes may be overlooked, the way you treat a person will follow you for the rest of your life.
Keep in touch with your friends.
When you go to college, the friends you leave behind are put to a test: are they true friends that keep in touch with you, or are they the friends that fizzle out and never speak to you again? It takes work, but you can make any friendship last -- the most important ones are the ones that do. Check in on your friends every now and then. They might need you.
Focus on the big picture.
Small things seems so big in the moment, but in reality, they are part of a much larger picture (especially in college). You may make a bad grade or you may not get into the graduate school you're obsessed with. But that's OK -- it'll all work out. I've never heard a story of someone whose life ended because their GPA was too low or their diploma was from a school no one had ever heard of. Focus on your large-picture goals and work from there -- don't sweat the small things.
Enjoy the moment.
Life isn't measured by wealth or education (though sometimes it seems like it). Life is measured by the things you've done and accomplished or learned from. Life is about the memories you make along the way. In college, it's easy to be consumed by studying and partying that everything kind of becomes a blur. Slow down -- appreciate everything. It'll pay off.
Call your grandparents.
My worst fear is being at college and having a grandparent pass away. I'd be a complete mess. Your grandparents need some love, too. Give them a call and see how they're doing, ask them about their day. Don't let yourself become detached in case something were to happen and you couldn't remember the last time you talked to them.
Give back.
Being philanthropic usually isn't on the to-do list of the average college student. Remember to give back in your four years. This doesn't mean you have to give money, you can give time or skills to those in need. Take time to volunteer and teach the people around you. In turn, you not only get service hours, but you will gain communication skills, empathy, cultural awareness, and so much more.
Know yourself, know your worth.
As you journey through your college career (even into adulthood), always stay true to yourself and be mindful of what you're worth. Don't let anyone underestimate you or belittle you. Let no one tell you you are not enough or you can't do something. Prove people wrong. Amaze people. Make the most of what you're given and let nothing change your character. This will carry on past college and help you be the best version of yourself in all aspects.
College can be overwhelming, but don't forget some of the most important things back at home when you leave.
