Going into my freshman year of college I was so nervous, I didn't know what to expect. I was going to be leaving home to go live in a dorm with girls I didn't know and I was gonna be going to college where I didn't know anyone. I don't know your definition of scary, but to me, that's pretty terrifying.
I read tons of articles online about what to bring and what not to bring, what to buy, and what I absolutely needed. I made boards on Pinterest for dorm decorations, and even planned out my "perfect" dorm room, which I'm sure every girl does to an extent. But nothing could prepare me for what actually happened and what I learned from my freshman year of college.
1. Get Involved.
I cannot stress this enough when talking about college. It sounds super cheesy, but I'm so glad that I joined clubs and got involved in things on campus. Not only is it a really good way to make friends, but it's also a good way to keep up with activities on campus. You aren't going to make friends sitting in your dorm room, get out there and have fun! :)
2. It isn't at all like they make it seem in high school.
In high school one thing that I constantly heard was, "You won't be able to do that in college." Which is true about most things don't get me wrong, but if you get up to use the bathroom they aren't going to ask to see your hall pass, you don't have to ask them if you can go, you just do it. They ultimately do not care if you show up to class or not because you are an adult, it's your decision.
3. College is more challenging.
With that being said, college is very challenging. It definitely tests your limits and you make a lot of important decisions. Also, I know people that never had to study in high school and while that may have been nice, it definitely won't be the same way in college. You HAVE to study or else you won't be passing the class anytime soon.
4. Adulting is hard.
This is the first time in your life that you're on your own. The freedom is nice to an extent, but then again buying your own groceries and having to pay to do your laundry kinda stinks. You miss home cooked meals and when you get a chance to have one again, I promise you won't pass it up.
5. Family is important.
One thing that I realized the most in college is how much I missed my family. If I was ever stressed or needed help, my mom was the first person I would call. Your family is so important to you and I realized you shouldn't take them for granted because when non one else is there, your family will always be there.
6. Don't be afraid to ask for help.
I was the absolute worst at this because I hate feeling like I don't know what I'm doing or that I need to depend on someone. I eventually had to get over this because I learned that it's okay to ask for help. You can't possibly know everything and that is perfectly okay. You just have to know when to ask for help.
7. The "Freshman Fifteen" is so real.
Take advantage of having a gym on campus and try not to eat food that's too bad for you because the freshman fifteen will sneak up on you.
8. You're tired a good portion of the time.
While you're in college you're constantly on the go. You'll go from classes to work to hanging out with your friends and then coming home to hours of homework. Trying to balance it all can be tiring, but you have to know your limits.
9. You do not need your whole closet from home.
This is something that I struggled with and still do. You don't need ALL of your clothes, take only the clothes that you think you'll need and then switch them out every once in awhile, I promise it is so much better than having way too many clothes crammed in your already too small dorm room.
10. It goes by fast.
Before I even realized it, I was already done with my freshman year. It really does go by so fast. I feel like I was just moving into my dorm for the first time a few weeks ago, not a few months ago. So much stuff is going on and it all just seems to pass you by so make sure you're making the best of it.
