When embarking on the journey that is your freshman year of college, you will be given so much advice about how to live, how to survive your classes and most importantly, how to take care of yourself. The topic of where you're going, how far away it is, and what you're going to be studying in college becomes the most frequent in conversation. Here are 13 things you won't hear in those conversations.
1. Make friends with the people in your building.
Attend any and all events in your residence hall or apartment building so that you can make friends with your neighbors. At the very least, find someone that will text you if there's a fire evacuation and you're in the shower.
2. Sign up for a bunch of clubs.
Sign up for clubs that you're not entirely sure you would even like. You will receive emails and you can test the waters before you decide if you'd like to join them, and unsubscribe if you don't. Joining clubs is the easiest way to make friends and meet a variety of new people.
3. Attend lectures and events on campus.
Go to lectures and events on campus even if they don't count for extra credit. Expand your horizons and you may learn something new.
4. Ask questions!
Now that you're technically an adult, you should take your education very seriously and stay on top of everything. If you're ever confused about anything, do not hesitate to ask questions. Whether it be directions to a classroom, what time the dining hall closes, or something about class, do not be afraid to reach to someone! Most likely they are more than willing to lend you a helping hand.
5. Explore the town.
If there is a town or city around your university, make it a point to get off campus every once in a while. Whether you're exploring a park, eating at a diner, or browsing through an antique shop, you are sure to find something to do.
6. Your friend group may change, and that's OK.
You will meet so many people your freshman year. Not all of those people will remain your friends and that is completely OK. College is a huge transition time and people change. You deserve to have friends that truly care about you and you will definitely meet more people and make more friends throughout your four years.
7. Volunteer if you have the chance.
8. Utilize study spaces.
We all know your bed is the worst place to study. Utilize all the study spaces your campus has to offer, whether it be the library, a lounge, or even the dining hall. These settings will offer more chances to focus and give you a chance to actually be productive.
9. Don't spend all your money on pizza.
While pizza is amazing and addicting, save your money. Who knows when your professor will suddenly add a new book to the syllabus or when you'll run out of school supplies, snacks, or deodorant.
10. Have a laundry schedule or routine.
You may think you can wear that shirt three weeks in a row, but it won't smell so great after the first week, and you can probably spare an hour or two to do a load of laundry. Hint: If the dryers aren't drying your clothes efficiently, try adding an extra quarter. It makes a difference!
11. Stay clean!
Even if you don't make your bed every day, you should still try and keep your floor clean so you can avoid upsetting your roommate. If applicable, do not forget to clean your bathroom either! Showers and toilets can become dirty really quickly. Make sure you're living in a hygienic and healthy environment.
12. You'll feel homesick at least a little bit.
Whether it's your mom, dog, cat, or the sweet taste of Wawa's hoagies that you miss, you will miss something from home. Don't freak out! There are loads of breaks during each academic year and you'll get home for at least one of them.
13. Write EVERYTHING down.
