As I watch my senior friends graduate, I think a lot about last year, when I was doing the same. I think about how I excited I felt to begin that new chapter, to never look back. To close the door behind me and overlook all the open doors ahead. Now, after two semesters of college, I can reflect on all the valuable lessons I learned through the experience. Here are ten things I learned as a college student:
1. You are on your own.
Now, this is not to say you can never reach out or ask for help. At times, asking for help is entirely necessary, especially in subjects that you just don't "get." But it is entirely your responsibility to go out of your way and finish assignments, even if that means choosing school over your social life. When grades are distributed at the end of the semester, you have only yourself to blame.
2. Friends don't have to talk every day.
It seems like, in high-school, there is constant communication. This is probably because groups are always together, in classes or clubs. Everything changes in college. If you can't talk to your friends every day, I promise they will understand. They've got their own busy agendas to deal with--their own responsibilities.
3. You still should make time for them, though.
It can be tough to talk every day, but that being said, you should still put effort. An occasional phone-call or text can go a long, long way, even after weeks without talking. Instead of spending your free-time on social-media, invite a friend over to catch up. If they are your true friends, it will feel like no time even passed.
4. People change.
It's true--even the ones you thought never would. But it's okay, because you are, too. With so many new experiences and situations, it is impossible to stay exactly the same.
5. You will have lots of stories.
Simply walking to class is enough story material! Especially if you are clumsy like me and tend to trip up the stairs. These stories, even the small ones, are what make up your college experience, so make the most of them. I'd suggest even writing them down, if they made you laugh or smile. When you're older, you will hold onto these moments.
6. Talk to everyone.
I cannot emphasize this one enough. Even at my high-school, which was relatively large, I felt like I knew everyone, but at college this is far from the case. Make connections with everyone. Not only will this help you in a professional sense, but you might find yourself with a new good friend.
7. Talk, but also listen.
In a world where so much is happening, it can be hard to keep quiet. When we get together with our friends, it can sometimes sound like babbling; mindless chatter. Stopping to listen, though, does a good-service to ourselves. People around us know much more than we think they do.
8. Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort-zone.
As a freshman, there are so many things running through your head. You want to do well in school but also make new friends and make money and, of course, have some fun. I think, in order for these things to happen, we have to be brave and take chances. When a good opportunity opens up, you should really consider taking it. You can go places you never even imagined when you believe in yourself.
9. You are capable of much more than you think.
This is a new slate for you, where the limitations of high-school no longer apply. You are not bound to what your classmates think of you. Most of them probably don't know you, so this is your chance to really start over. If you slacked off in high-school, you can be a 4.0 student now. If you were quiet and kept to yourself, you can be a social-butterfly and get involved. You can do anything your set your heart on.
10. Make the most of these times.
You survived the awkward phase called "high-school," so you might as well enjoy this next chapter. No one is forcing you to be here. You can study what you want, when you want. And, above all else, consider the thousands-upon-thousands of dollars you're spending just to be here. You might as well be happy while doing so.
