Freshman year of college is an exciting, scary time. Here are 18 tips I wish I could have told my 18-year-old self.
1. Real pants are the enemy
Leggings, yoga pants, sweat pants; anything without a button or zipper will become your new forgiving best friends.
2. 8 A.M.'s are the worst
To this day I still have no idea how I went to high school every morning at 7:30 and looked like a functional human being. Disclaimer: that ends in college.
3. Hangovers are a real thing
Wild Wednesday, Thirsty Thursday, it’s all part of the college experience. Be prepared for the full day hangover you’ll feel the next day.
4. You probably won't stay with your high school sweetheart
I know, this one is hard to hear. But on a serious note, do not choose your college based off where your significant other goes. Go for the right reasons, like you truly want to be there, and not just to be close to him/her.
5. Going out isn't all it's cracked up to be
Sure, the first party with unlimited PJ will be a blast. But it's ok to stay in and binge watch Netflix too.
6. Meltdowns are inevitable
This is best seen during finals week where you have endless hours of work and two days to get it all done. Not to mention the fact that you have to decide what to do with your life 3 months out of high school. Take my advice and call your mom. Moms always know what to say.
7. Go to the gym
I repeat, take advantage of the gym. The freshman 15 is no joke my friends.
8. It's ok to not like your roommate
Moving out if needed is totally understandable. After all, you have to share a 10x10 box with this person, it should at least be someone you can halfway stand.
9. You might meet 'the one' and you might not
College is full of new people and new relationships. If you’re lucky enough to nail down a guy who respects you and isn’t afraid of commitment, seriously what super power do you have and where can I get one?
10. You will find yourself questioning what your parents taught you
College is full of diversity, and our generation is leading the nation in a time of change. This isn’t the 60’s anymore. It’s ok to be gay, have sex before marriage, and ask a guy on a date. Find what you truly believe in and pursue it passionately.
11. Don't make decisions when drinking
Should you text him? No. The answer should always be no. Would you send that text sober? If the answer is no, don’t press send when you’re drunk.
12. You will most likely change your major
Contrary to popular belief, this is ok. It’s also more than ok to come into college undecided. Don’t rush it, and take classes that interest you. A passion just might turn into a major. Oh, and when you do change your major, summer classes will be your saving grace.
13. Buy a planner
Use it, color code it, highlight it, whatever you gotta do.
14. Coffee is expensive
Learn to like drip coffee instead of that $5 specialty latte. I’m still struggling with this one.
15. Make nice with your advisor/at least one professor
Their letters of recommendation could be your ticket into grad school.
16. Don't get involved with your coworkers
It might be fun at first, but you have to work with these people and interact on a daily basis. Think about it.
17. Wear your hair according to the weather
Sunny and 75? Dig out your straightener. Windy? Ponytail it. You’ll thank yourself.
18. Have at least one go-to outfit at all times
This can save you tons of time, and won’t cause you to throw half your closet on your floor.
And last, but not least, don’t be rude. Respect everyone. You don’t know their story, and as human beings, we owe it to everyone to show a decent amount of respect.
