In my first semester of college, I lost 30 pounds, changed my major, met hundreds of new people, and found myself thriving while living independently. So, while this topic has been written about a hundred times over, I decided to throw in my two cents. These are the 15 most important things I learned...
1. Be yourself unapologetically.
In high school, it was easy to get pulled into the crowd and forget who you are. Especially in a small town, being unique takes a lot of energy. But, now is the time to not only figure out who you are, but to own it. This one is by far the most important thing I learned this semester. It just makes life more enjoyable.
2. Always eat breakfast.
Why deny yourself a meal? That's just wrong, and I can't believe I went all of high school surviving off of granola bars during first period.
3. Quality over quantity.
Friends, essays, meals, phone calls, etc.
4. Routines are everything.
For people like me, whose kryptonite is change and disorder, sticking to a routine as soon as possible makes life much easier. It can make things fun too. It may seem mundane, but you'll find yourself looking forward to Friday laundry!
5. Change and diversity make you a better person.
A new life may be giving you anxiety, but in the long run (or even two weeks after moving in) you will realize how exciting it is to be on your own.
6. Your parents are there for support, not structure.
Your parents will do anything for you, but don't take advantage of that. Making them come up every weekend to buy you dinner and clean your room isn't helping either of you. A couple surprise visits will be enough. You don't want them to get sick of you.
7. Invest in premium music subscriptions.
Spotify or Apple Music; take your pick and dive into the world of pre-made and customizable playlists.
8. Don't feel pressured to take risks when you aren't ready.
Life is already crazy enough between the new environment, people, and schoolwork. I've always encouraged risks, but only when you are ready to accept the outcome, good or bad
9. Explore.
Taking a four-hour road trip alone to visit my friends upstate was one of the best decisions I made this semester. Embracing my new environment and navigating my way 200 miles north made me more confident in my ability to make it on my own.
10. Make time for the things you love.
Don't forget about your hobbies. A new schedule may mean less time for your art, sport, or passion, but that doesn't mean there isn't any time.
11. Make meaningful connections.
New friends and fantastic professors will play huge roles in your life. Make the most of these new relationships and find your people!
12. Express your opinions.
You are entitled to your opinion and, at college, you should be learning that you create the community you live in. If something is upsetting you, don't just complain about it; find a solution.
13. Amazon Prime saves lives.
There's a reason it's so cheap for college students... they know. Running out of your favorite shampoo that they don't sell at the pharmacy is absolutely an emergency that can be rectified by free two-day shipping.
14. Be less judgmental.
I got to college and very quickly realized that I wasn't better than anyone else. If you want people to respect your lifestyle decisions, respect theirs.
15. Make the most out of the opportunity you are receiving.
Only 6.7% of the world's population has a college degree (source). Being able to afford college and have this opportunity is rare and should be taken advantage of. Learn everything you can in your courses, ask questions, and use the resources you are given to their full extent.
