Freshman year is coming to an end and WOW has it gone by fast. I can easily say that this year brought me some of the best and worst times of my life. From the excitement of college football, homecoming, and new friends to the pain of leaving home, library all-nighters and dorm laundry, freshman year is one I won't forget. So far, college has been nothing like I expected yet everything I've wanted. Summer is just around the corner, and then we'll be (WHAT?!) sophomores. Here are a few things I've learned during my last time as a freshman.
1. Don't go home.
While transitioning to college can be hard, it's so much easier if you just stay put for a while. Everyone's in the same boat, not knowing what to do and wanting to make friends. Finding your people is not nearly as hard if you give it a little time. Of course, you can leave for a home-cooked meal every once in a while, but try not to make that your constant weekend plan.
2. Talk to new people every chance you get.
Even with three short weeks left, I'm still making friends. College campuses are huge, and you never see the same people every day. Make a note to talk to the person next to you in lecture or the one in the seat next to you in the library. They might just become your new best friend.
3. Late-night snacks are a MUST.
Unfortunately, sometimes 3 a.m. nights at the library can't be avoided. If you know you're going to have a late night, stock up on coffee and candy beforehand.
4. Showering every day is not necessary.
Trust me, you're not the only one. Throw on a hat and give yourself an extra spritz and no one will know.
5. Live in a traditional dorm.
DO IT. Freshman year is not about having your own bathroom and full-sized bed. Living in a traditional dorm is so fun, and it gives you so much more opportunity to make friends.
6. Study hard.
High school may have been a breeze, but college is on a whole other level. Waiting until the day before to do that project isn't gonna fly anymore.
7. But have a little fun too.
Sometimes we deserve a break. Football, road trips, and movies are a must for any successful college weekend.
8. Learn to love coffee.
You'll probably average around three cups a day...on a good day.
9. Thrifting is the new shopping.
Once you get to college, paying $20 for a shirt is simply not going to happen. Honestly, paying $5 starts to feel like a stretch.
10. Call home.
Your mom misses you. A lot. Call her.
11. Become familiar with the weather app.
Now that you walk to class and basically everywhere you go, knowing the weather actually matters. You will have regrets if you walk out in shorts and a T-shirt only to find out its raining and in the 40s.
12. Treat your planner like your child.
Planners are lifelines. Your entire world will end in disaster without it. Forget to write one thing down and your entire week is messed up. Lose it, well...good luck.
13. Your T-shirt collection is your most prized possession.
If you don't have an abundance of T-shirts when you get to college, you will within a month. Make sure to order two sizes up. The bigger the better.
14. Go to class.
If you don't like early mornings, just schedule later classes! Whatever you do, show up to class. Posting PowerPoints after every lecture isn't always a thing in college. Taking your own notes is sometimes your only hope.
15. You're not supposed to know what you're doing.
Feeling stressed and questioning your entire life is honestly so normal. Don't freak out for freaking out. No one knows what's going on.
16. BE YOURSELF!
Don't change for anyone, because so many people will love you for who you are
