College is a huge learning experience for everyone. For many, it's the first time they're living away from their parents, and it's their first time being truly on their own. Stepping outside of your comfort zone may be scary and intimidating, but there are many other freshmen going through the same things that you are! Together, you'll learn many valuable lessons on how to handle college life on your own. These lessons will guide you through your time at college and help you in the rest of your life!
Here are 10 major things you'll learn freshman year of college:
- How to do laundry: If you're not already confident about your laundry skills, you probably at least know the general theory behind what it takes to do laundry. Separate whites from colors, pour in the detergent, start the machine. It really is that simple! Once you do it the first few times, you'll easily get the hang of it!
- Time management: In college, you'll generally have a lot more free time than you did in high school. Classes are only for a few hours each day, and all the time outside of class is yours to spend. Freshman year, you'll quickly learn that even though it seems like you have a lot of extra time, a lot of it will be occupied by activities like clubs, socialization, studying, and sleeping! It's important to organize your time wisely so you're not too stressed or overwhelmed!
- You don't have to be best friends with your roommate: Although becoming best friends with your roommate is the most ideal situation, keep in mind that it may not happen. The most important thing to focus on is making sure that your relationship as roommates is good, because you'll live with them for the whole year. You'll see each other in all states of vulnerability, so its best that you have a healthy relationship. You may not get along outside of being roommates with each other. Or, you may become friends, but not best friends. But trying to force a friendship with your roommate may only result in negative outcomes.
- You won't get along with everyone: In the beginning of your college experience, it's easy to fall into friendship with the people you are around most often. As the year goes on and you meet other people, you may realize that your original friends may not be a perfect fit. Conflicts may happen, and people may make new friends and form new friend groups. It's OK! It might take a while to find your niche, but don't get discouraged.
- Netflix is your best friend: Trust me on this. Whenever you need to de-stress, chill out, or kill time, Netflix (or just any kind of TV watching in general) will be there. But be careful -- it's a huge distraction if you actually need to get stuff done!
- You don't need to drink or party to have fun: Although the option is always there, sometimes it's nice to just chill or hang out with friends. Play a game with your friends or have movie night. Most colleges will also offer fun activities on campus for students. Take advantage of these!
- It's OK to be unsure about yourself: Don't stress if you don't know what you want to major in, or what you want to do after college. Hopefully, every day, you'll learn something about yourself that will help you visualize your future. Personally, I'm someone who doesn't even know what to eat for lunch! Just relax! Don't worry about these things more than they're worth. When it comes time, it will be easier to evaluate your situation and make important decisions.
- Eating wisely: Eating at the same few places on campus every day can get old fast. Make sure you mix it up in order to create some variety in your diet. It's also worth it to choose healthier options. Healthier food will make you feel better about your eating habits and also give you more energy throughout the day. And keep in mind the importance of exercise!
- Put yourself first: In college, you are in charge of yourself. It's up to you to make sure you're studying enough for all your classes and waking up on time. Although your academics are important, it's also important to take care of yourself both mentally and physically. Sometimes it's beneficial to take a day off or spend time alone. And if there are any sources of negative feelings in your life, don't be afraid to put yourself first.
- There are some things that will just always be stressful: Every year, when scheduling time rolls around, people get stressed. Same with finals week. Expect a lot of stress, mental breakdowns, and less free time. It's normal to fret about these things! But there are things you can do to alleviate your stress. Exercise, take a break, or talk to people about it. It'll help!
Although college is a huge adjustment, keep in mind that everyone else is going through the same things that you are! As you go, you'll learn how to best handle college life and hopefully learn to love it!
