Well, it's that time of the year again. College students are done for the year, and high school students are preparing for graduation and other commencement activities. At this time last year, I was a stressed, nervous, anxious high school senior. I had no idea what to expect after high school graduation and moving onto my freshman year of college. I didn't have any older friends or sibling to help me through that stressful time. I felt lost, and I really was not sure what I was doing (and let's be honest, I still don't know what I'm doing!) Needless to say, last summer was a stressful time for me. But, spoiler alert: everything turned out okay! Once I got the whole college thing down, I was fine. Here are some things I wish someone had told me going into my freshman year, and what every incoming freshman needs to know!
1. Make your room cozy and unique.
Your dorm room is literally your home away from home. If you had a bad day at class, or you just want to curl up in bed and nap, you will feel so much more comfortable if your room is cozy and familiar. I found that bringing things from my bedroom at home helped give my dorm a nice touch!
2. You don't need to bring every single clothing item you own.
Dorm closets are very, very, small. Or, if you're like me, you get stuck with a wardrobe type thing. As long as you keep up with your laundry, you shouldn't have to bring every clothing item you own.
3. Make at least one friend in every class and get their phone number.
There's going to be a few times where you don't want to get out of bed for class, or you can't answer all of your homework problems. Honestly, having someone's number in all of my classes saved my life whenever I was stuck with something or couldn't remember something the professor said in class!
4. Go through formal recruitment if your school has Greek Life.
5. Don't be embarrassed to use the resources on campus.
Whether it's the gym, the counseling center, or the tutoring center, take advantage of all the resources that are given to you!
6. Become close with your RA.
I think that having a strong relationship with your RA is crucial when you're first living in a dorm. My RA was so supportive and I knew she would help me with whatever I needed. If you're reading this, Jeenal, you're the best.
7. Making friends isn't instant, but it's also not as hard as you think.
Don't be discouraged if you don't find your "group" the first couple of weeks. It takes time. It's not necessary to find your BFF during orientation week, but if that happens, consider yourself lucky!
8. Be safe if you decide to go out.
Whether you're just going to get some ice cream, or you're going to a frat party, make safe decisions. College towns can be full of trouble. Never leave your drink unattended. When you arrive at a party with a friend, don't leave without them. Be smart.
9. Save money.
Even though it's very tempting to want to order Domino's Pizza every night, don't do it. It's okay to splurge every once in a while, though. Oh, and don't go crazy on Cyber Monday like I did. You'll hate yourself later.
10. If you're not happy, it's okay to transfer.
I was SO nervous about transferring schools. What about my credits? My sorority? What if people judge me? I wish someone would have told me that it's totally okay to transfer schools. Sure, the transferring process is not a piece of cake, but if you're unhappy with your current situation, you cannot make the wrong decision!
Overall, your Freshman year is fun! Enjoy it while you can, and just remember that everything will be okay in the end!
