All your bags are moved in. Your parents pulled out and there you are left with a bunch of strangers and a foreign environment. You might be scared, maybe you are feeling like you're on top of the world, starting a new journey. No matter what you're currently feeling, or what current expectations you came in with, you are in for a whole new learning experience.
Here are 13 things, I learned during my my first week of college.
1. Keeping your door open, is always a great way to meet new people.
Bring a door stopper to college and I promise you won't regret it. During move-in everyone is so preoccupied with perfecting their dorm, that meeting people is not always the first thing on their radar. Once all the parents leave; however, everyone is ready to embark on the same journey and get out there. Best way to do that: keep your door open, especially if you are in hall style. People will definitely be walking by your door and it shows that you want to socialize with them.
2. It's OK to miss home, but if you do, distract yourself.
Missing home, the environment you have grown up in or cherished for so long is completely normal. It is okay to miss your parents or loved ones, because if you do miss them, it means you come from a loving family or friend group, something you shouldn't take lightly. Although, the worst thing you could do for your own sake is sulk about it. Distract yourself, focus on the fun things and experiences ahead and know that your home will still be there for breaks.
3. The best places to eat on campus.
Usually the places with the longest line, but usually worth it. There is nothing better than finding that place that makes up for missing mom's home cooked meals.
4. Welcome week is not overrated.
At James Madison University, 5 days before classes we participate in "1787 Orientation," also commonly called "Frog week." The program is crafted to help students adapt to their new home by putting them in orientation groups based on their hall(s). Through this week, I met so many wonderful people and JMU truly feels like home for me because I got involved and went to the events. If your school has a welcome week, do not take it for granite, it seriously can be one of the best weeks of your college experience, if you make it one.
5. Finding your classes before classes start is actually a good idea.
Especially if you are on a big campus, this will save you so much time and prevent you from looking like a first year. I found all my classes before they started and I still got a bit lost. If you can, even look for your the room within the building, this can show you what entrance is closest to your classroom and the quickest routes to get there.
6. You will have multiple friend groups.
In my first week of college, I have already created multiple friend groups. My hall mates, continued friend ships from high school, and people in my classes/program are just a few. Having multiple friend groups, helps you find community in so many different and fun ways, and makes your college experience so much worthwhile.
7. It is also possible to stay in touch with friends from other colleges or paths.
My biggest fear going to college was losing closeness with my friends who were going different paths or different colleges. However, if you put in the effort it is possible to keep in touch. FaceTime or other video call services are a great way so you can see each other and feel close. Even a text just asking how they are, shows you still care about each other. If you are willing to put in the work to be intentional, you can most definitely make it work. For those friendships that maybe are one sided or hard to stay in touch, know that everything happens for a reason and that maybe that friendship isn't meant to be in your life anymore. With the friendships that do last, they are the ones that could last a lifetime and ones you can cherish for many years to come.
8. Tracking your steps makes you feel really good.
Whether it's from your apps on your smartphone or fit bit, tracking your steps makes you feel that much better, especially if you go to a college or university with a big campus. It also motivates you to set yourself step goals, a great way to avoid the freshman fifteen!
9. You have a chance to have a clean slate.
Sure, there might be some people from your high school or that you've known throughout your life that is going to the same school as you; but, that does not mean you have to interact with them. This is our chance to start over, to make friends that truly share common interests with you. You have an opportunity to establish a better work ethic than you had in high school, and to push yourself in ways you didn't think you could before. Stay true to yourself, and take advantage of this clean slate and make it worthwhile.
10. You do not have to drink to have fun.
Depending on what type of college and university you attend, there may be different stigmas or stereotype; however, even if you go to a "party school," that does not mean you have to party or participate in the illegal activities. Some of my favorite memories of college has been the night's I've stayed in watching a movie with my whole dorm or having late night talk with friends. Know what you think is right or wrong when it comes to these activities, and stick to your beliefs. I promise, you'll find someone who shares the same ones.
11. Get Involved.
By getting involved in things that interest you, you will find people who share those common interests and form some really sweet bonds. Especially if going to a larger college or university, getting involved in different clubs is how you find your niche and your group. Find what makes you happy, and pursue it. If there isn't a club for it, then create your own! The options are endless.
12. Holding the door open, can make someone's day.
James Madison University is known for holding doors for our fellow Dukes. I know when someone takes that extra minute to hold the door for me, it brightens my day. It's a simple task, yet it shows you care.
13. Yes, college is actually hard.
College is time-consuming consisting of long hours of homework. The work is not like high school where you can slide by and get away with not studying. Studying and a good work ethic will be your best friend in college. How much work you put in, will determine how much you get it out. If you go in knowing it's going to be challenging, but with a positive attitude that you are willing to do what it takes, you'll be one step ahead of the crowd and will be on your way to success.
There will be hard times, there will be the moments you hold close to your heart for years to come. Through it all, college is a learning experience, one we should not take for granted but appreciate all the lessons it has to offer.