Freshman year of college is an interesting one. When I started my freshman year, I had no idea what to expect. Whether you're planning on attending a big campus or a small one, college shows us alternate lifestyles and we tend to adjust to life on our own accordingly. When thrown into this mix quickly, it can be challenging. With the right frame of mind and people by your side, however, you're bound to make some of the best memories of your life.
Here are just a few things you should know when moving to a big campus:
1. Don't be intimidated by large lectures.
At first, large lectures may make you feel lost, but they tend to grow on you. Huge group discussions can help you feel included, even if you're just listening to the various opinions. It makes you feel not as alone.
2. Go to class because odds are your professor won't know a lot about you.
This is a big one. Unless you go to office hours or meet with your professor on your own time (which is nearly impossible sometimes), they won't know you and you won't know them very well either, which could either help or hurt your grade. Make friends in your class and form study groups so you can help each other out.
3. Make friends.
Whether they're your study buddies or your "going out" go-to's, these are the people who will be putting up with you for the next four years (and vice versa), so treat each other right and be thankful for them every second of the day.
4. Avoid people you don't want to be friends with/who don't like you.
You should no longer feel obligated to put up with anyone or anything. It's your life; own it.
5. Join in the school spirit.
Be happy you attend a school that can get hype over anything because of all fo the different personalities that mesh together. Don't be that person missing out.
6. Don't be overwhelmed by the many majors and minors to choose from.
Everything will come together in the end. Worry less and enjoy more. You'll find out what is best for you.
7. You'll still be able to find quiet places to study and relax.
It's nice to get away and think about yourself and where you're at in your particular situation every once in a while.
8. People know your school.
Don't be ashamed of who you are and what your school stands for. If you do, you should probably transfer.
9. There is so much free stuff.
College is all about ballin' on a budget and seeing how long you can live off $5.
10. There are tons of things to get involved in.
Getting involved will not only help you feel accomplished but will make the new adjustment easier.
11. There are more people to meet and experiences to be had.
A number of new experiences you will have and lessons you will learn are endless.
