Ah, college. It's the time we've been waiting for. We finally have the freedom and independence we've been craving since high school. On top of that, it's all just fun and games, right? All you have to do is party and have a good time. Wrong! While that is one part of college, it's not nearly the most accurate or most important. As a third year college student, I've learned plenty, so here's some of the lessons I think you should learn. Also, it's a slideshow of sorts through my first two years of college, even though the pictures don't match the captions.
1. College classes are not high school classes.
A lot of us come into college thinking classes are going to be the same as they were in high school. I mean, not everyone had college prep. But let me just say, college is ridiculous. Even the "easy" courses aren't always easy, and my definition of what's easy in a class has definitely changed.
2. You need to study!
I can't stress this one enough! I was that kid who never had to crack open a book in high school, and therefore, my study habits were never developed. You can't just wing it and hope to do well here. I went from zero studying to sticking my nose in a book any free chance I have.
3. Greek Life is not like the movies.
Never in a million years did I ever think I'd be the type of guy to join a fraternity. Like honestly, that's just not who I am, and I had an established image in my mind of what it would be like. Man, was I wrong. Joining a fraternity was one of the best decisions I've made in college.
4. Your friend group evolves.
Suddenly, nobody cares how popular or nerdy you were in high school. The funny thing about college is that your history doesn't define you. In most cases, it's a chance to reinvent yourself, and this usually means the friends you make aren't the same kinds of people you would have hung out with in high school.
5. Get involved...like yesterday.
But seriously, as much as I stressed studying, this one is just as important. If all you do is study, you're going to miss out on some of the best parts of college. Join an organization or club as quickly as you can. There are tons of opportunities, and a lot more people who like the same things as you. It helps you feel more connected and less homesick. Getting involved in University Housing has made all the difference for me.
6. Learn who you are.
I think a lot of us come to college already with an image of ourselves in our heads. We think we know everything about who we are, but in reality, we know nothing. You're still growing, developing, changing...and in the years you're in college, you should take time to explore yourself. What do you like, who do you want to be, who are you? Take the time to figure it all out.
7. Interact with people who are different than you.
I know this can be hard or scary, but it's great real world experience. Every single person has a story, and I can guarantee that even with similarities, theirs is much different than yours. Listen, and learn their stories. Becoming more accepting of others is never a bad thing.
8. Adulting is hard.
Give your parents some credit, because being an adult can really suck sometimes. You know what comes with freedom? A lot of responsibility. Also, life is much more expensive than you can even imagine. I always dread my weekly trips to the grocery store, because I know it will leave a dent in my bank account.
9. Watch how your family grows.
I couldn't do any of this without my new extended family. Your college friends really do become like family because they are your biggest supporters, your confidantes, your brothers and sisters, while you're here. "Here's to the nights that turned into days, with the friends who turned into family."
10. Keep in touch with your family.
Send your parents a text every day, just to say you love them. You can never say that enough, and you'll never regret saying it. Let them know you're alright. Call every now and then so they can hear your voice. Trust me, theirs sound nice too. And if you have the ability to, go home more than just for long breaks. Take a weekend and go back home. Sometimes it's nice just to be back and away from the chaos of college.
11. Get some sleep.
Trust me, you'll thank yourself more if you get a few hours of sleep instead of pulling an all-nighter before an exam. Actually, your chances of doing well are increased with sleep, even if you study less. Sleep is the time for you to recover, so take advantage of it. Also, a short daily nap really helps to recharge the battery.
12. Try things that scare you.
Get out of your comfort zone as much as you can. Go to a party, join Greek Life, talk to new people. Go on a spring break trip with your friends. Do whatever it takes to make yourself a little uncomfortable, because it's all a learning and growing experience. I promise, you're more likely to regret not doing something than doing something.
13. Enjoy yourself!
Yes, college is expensive and difficult, and 99% of the time, you'll be stressed (sometimes to tears). But remember that it's all worth it. These really are some of the best years of your life. As I get older, I notice time seems to fly by faster and faster. I feel like I went to bed and woke up halfway through college. Go out and make some memories (even if you can't remember them); make the friends who will be in your wedding; maybe meet the love of your life. But overall, enjoy yourself. It really will be what you make of it, so if you just sit on the sidelines, you won't enjoy it. Life isn't meant to be a spectator sport.
