With only a few weeks left of my freshman year of college (ahem, two!), I've been doing a lot of reflecting... Not only on what I've learned, but how I've grown and the experiences I've been exposed to. When they say that college is one of the best times of your life, they weren't lying. You come out of your shell, meet fresh faces, and get the chance to make all of your own decisions (even if you do still call your parents for advice). So, here's my chance to say a variety of things I've learned, both good and bad.
1. How long it takes to walk from one side of campus to the other when you're in a rush.
2. Sometimes, Walmart adventures will be the highlight of your week.
3. Never miss steak night in the dining hall.
4. Take a chance to talk to someone new.
Whether this means saying hi as you pass by, or being bold and sending a friend request, you won't regret it.
5. Don't be afraid to be yourself and be vulnerable; people will appreciate that you are willing to show that side of yourself.
6. Homework does not rule your life.
Take a deep breath and give yourself a break every once in awhile.
7. Always wear shower sandals.
Or really shoes in the res halls in general.
8. Be kind to and befriend your RA (Resident Assistant).
Remember that they are people too and can/will help you in any way they can. They want you to succeed!
9. Sleep. Homework, studying and Netflix may seem important, but your body will appreciate the few extra z's.
10. Don't spend every Friday night doing homework in your dorm.
If your friends invite you out, take the invitation. Have a little fun!
11. Remember that you won't necessarily find "Mr." or "Mrs." right your first year of college.
Experiment. Go on dates. Learn what you do and don't want. The right person will come in time.
12. Let go of high school.
You (hopefully) aren't that person anymore. You've grown a lot since then. While talking about the great memories is nice, not everyone will care.
13. The last minute on the washer is more like six.
14. You might remember someone from the first week of school but they may not necessarily remember you.
Don't take it personally.
15. Take advantage of the free events on campus.
They generally have food or a fun activity that will get you out of your dorm!
16. Say hello to the people on your floor/in your building.
Sometimes seeing a friendly face in the hall can brighten someone's day and they'll definitely appreciate it.
17. Join orgs!
Devote yourself to one or two orgs on campus that interest you. You'll make friends and memories!
18. Don't kick yourself over skipping a few classes.
No, I don't suggest it but sometimes you just need a brain break.
19. Don't wait until 10 p.m. Sunday night to get homework done.
I promise that you'll regret it.
20. You won't always get along with your roommate.
That's okay.
21. Take some time to do something you enjoy every once in awhile.
Whether this is volunteering, Netflix binging or just taking a nap, you deserve it.
22. Keep in touch with your family.
They care about you and want to know how you're doing!
23. It's possible to eat healthy. It's also possible to eat dessert every day.
You choose.
24. You can procrastinate with almost anything.
Doesn't mean you should.
25. There will always be someone there to help you, even if you don't know it.
26. It's possible to survive off of less than five hours of sleep.
It's also not recommended.
27. The friends you had in high school will most likely no longer be your friends.
Don't think too seriously about it. You're all on a new journey.
28. Going out of your comfort zone is generally a good thing and can bring really great stories.
29. Studying for the first time right before the exam is not a good idea.
Ever.
