You Will Leave College a Changed Person
The summer before I started college, I remember hearing countless times that college changes you. I was absolutely terrified that I wouldn't recognize myself by the time I was handed a diploma. But I understand 2 years later what this means and why it isn't such a bad thing after all. There are so many possibilities and new experiences that you will be exposed to the moment you set foot on campus. Yes, new life experiences do change you, but more importantly, they allow you to view your life from a completely different perspective. They allowed me to grow up.
Others will change too
You cannot move forward and expect everyone to keep pace with you. You will change and so will everyone else. Your friends from high school will be off having their own adventures and creating their own memories...without you. This one of the most difficult things is to come to terms with. It will be okay. You will make new friends and so will they. Keep in mind, everyone makes friends at their own pace. However, be sure to meet with old friends at least every break and catch up. Just because everything has changed doesn't mean they you love you any less.
Actually Care About School
You came here learn, do not forget that. Caring about school is not nerdy or lame, it's smart considering the $20,000 per year price tag. If you're finding it difficult to care, I advise you reconsider if your passionate about your field of study. You should love what you're learning and, although it is tough, it shouldn't feel like a chore. Furthermore, don't go out on Thursday. Your friends aren't going to take that 8am statistics exam for you. Grab some coffee, head to the library and hit the books. FOMO (fear of missing out) is all in your head.
Never Settle for Anything.
If you ever feel in your gut like you're settling for something, it is not worth it. When it comes to people, relationships, colleges and practically everything else, if you're not passionate about it or them, you're just wasting time. Don't let your fear of change, failure and taking risks control your life. Life is not about unrealistic goals or chasing perfection. It is about making sure you're happy, not simply drifting along in life and complaining.
Learn to Save Money
Money is scarce in college. Open up a savings account so you can have a fun spring break or a cushion for emergencies. Chipotle is a Godsend; however, it isn't smart to eat it 3 times a week. Save your money. Both your wallet and your waistband will thank you.
Loneliness Will Inevitably Creep in
Sometimes you will feel completely and utterly alone, but I promise that you are not. College is bustling and sometimes you will feel completely isolated in a crowded environment. In moments like these, you should call a family member or loved one back home to remind you that everything will be okay.
You Will Make Some Dumb Mistakes
College is a learning experience. It's okay to make dumb mistakes. Whether it be losing your wallet downtown or spilling coffee on the dean, bounce back and learn from it. Anyhow, in college, these are how the best stories are formed.
Do Not Wait for What you Want, Grasp it
Want that promotion? Work for it. Want to make the Dean's List? Earn it. In the real world, nothing is handed to you on a silver platter. You take what you deserve. Mediocre pay for mediocre work. Get on your grind and stick to it. Your hard work might not have immediate results but eventually you will see progress.
Everyone Will Seem to be Having More Fun
Social Media is becoming a plague that insist that everyone is having more fun than you are. Your cousin is in Australia and your best friends are crowdsurfing in Coachella. Yet here you are on your dorm eating deadly amounts of Doritos and "Instastalking" your neighbor's cousin's little. The magic of social media is that, with one Tweet or filter, you can lead everyone to believe that your life is more thrilling and fulfilling than their's. If you ever feel like that is the case, reflect on all the amazing things in your life. Also, go on your own adventure and travel both far from and close to home. Actually put Instagram to good use with the new Explore tab. It's a great way to find exciting places to visit nearby! As they say, it's better to regret doing something than to regret not doing it at all.
