Summer has come and gone and school is quickly approaching. Going into my sophomore year has created a lot of reflection on my first year of college. Moving away from home and being on my own was such a big change that I really did not expect before I moved into college. There are so many things looking back I wish I knew and could tell myself.
1. Don't be afraid to meet people.
Going to college I didn't know anybody. I was completley alone and was terrfied to go up and introduce myself and meet people. Try to keep in mind everybody around you is meeting eachother for the first time and it's awkward and weird for everyone so just be you and introduce yourself.
2. Don't schedule early classes.
It may seem like a good idea or you may think you can get through it. But, you are lying to yourself. You may have been able to do it in high school but there is no way you will get yourself up for early classes. Honestly, even an 11 o'clock class is hard to get up for.
3. It's okay to go out, and it's okay not to.
There is no right way to do college. Don't feel guilty if you go out and have fun or if you decide to stay in while everyone on your floor goes out. Do you and have fun how you want to have fun.
4. You will miss your mom, a lot.
As you are preparring to leave you might be completley ready to leave your parents. Who needs them? You are an independent adult and can be on your own. Wrong. You will miss your mom being there for every worry, doing your laundry and someone to listen to every crazy thing you need to get out.
5. Don't be afraid to get involved.
Find your place on campus and get involved. Rather it's Greek life, student media or another club, get involved! You will find another home on campus and people who share your intreasts.
6. Your roommate might not be your best friend.
Before moving into college I was so excited to have a roommate that I hoped would be my best friend. Unfortunately, that didn't happen. Your roommate might not be your best friend, and it will be fine in the end.
7. Don't skip class.
Sure, when your alarm goes off and you make the decision to stay in bed and sleep, it seems like a great idea. But, when you go to take a test and you realize you have no clue what was covered in class, you will regret those couple extra hours of sleep. Just go to class, no matter how boring it is.
8. You will have to study like never before.
In high school I could get by without ever studying. College is a diffrent story. You cannot get by studying the night before or not studying at all. You'll have to learn how to study and figure out what works for you.
9. Don't buy your books too early.
Don't get ahead of yourself and buy a bunch of textbooks before classes start. You may not need the book and college books are expensive. Also, if you do find you need a book check places like Chegg or Amazon so you can rent books or easily resell them.
10. Don't overpack.
You might think you need everything you have ever owned to go with you to college, but you really don't. Your dorm will be small and there won't be room for everything. Also, when you have to bring it all home for the summer it will be a hot mess.
11. Go home every once in a while.
College will become your home and you may never want to leave. But, don't forget to go home every once in a while. Take the time to visit with your family, snuggle your dog and take advantage of a home cooked meal.
12. Do not wear your lanyard.
It's the golden rule of college and the first thing anyone will tell you. Don't wear your lanyard around your neck. Just don't.
