Sometimes we forget that our moms were in our position once. Times have changed, and we all think we know better, but there are just some things we’re wrong about it, whether we want to admit it or not. Since going to college, I’ve realized this more than ever. Love you, mom.
1. Be sure to time manage.
Oh how I wish I would have listened to this piece of advice before it was too late. In college, it may seem like you have an excess amount of time on your hands, but it’s all an illusion – one I’ve learned the hard way. As my mom kept warning me, “Make sure there’s a balance between going out and school.” You know that saying, “For every one hour of class, you’ll need three to study?” Ya, it’s a real thing.
That party on Friday? And Saturday? You’ll regret it on Sunday.
2. Watch out for the freshman 15.
When my mom told me to be careful with what I eat, I wish I had listened. With fast foods such as Wendy’s, Chick-fil-A, Cane’s and Chipotle in such close proximity, I may have gone overboard just because I could (this explains why I’m out of Bevo Bucks). Hey, mom, look at me: I had chicken nuggets for breakfast, lunch and dinner!! Ya, I really regret that now.
In high school you hear stories about the freshman 15, but you never think it can actually happen to you until it does. And trust me, that weight is not easy to lose.
3. Find a boy worth your time.
If most girls are like me, I think we jump into college expecting to find a respectable guy we can bring home to our parents. We imagine that there will be dozens of perfect, reputable young men waiting at our feet. Right. Within the three months from high school graduation to the first day of college, boys don’t suddenly mature to their age. Boys will be boys, and there’s not much to it.
But sometimes, you’ll find a good one. You'll find someone who will challenge you, inspire you and make you want to be the best you can be. One big thing I’ve learned is that my time is worth more than a boy who just wants to “Netflix ‘n chill.” My time should be given to people who matter, people worth caring about. You’re lucky if you find a good one.
4. Look out for yourself.
This is probably the most important piece of advice my mom gave me. In college, you’ll meet a ton of different people, some you clash with, some you connect with. You are going to meet boys who will break your heart, and you are going to have friends who will turn their backs on you. You will be peer pressured, and you will be put in positions where you are uncomfortable. The best thing you can do for yourself is to be yourself. In college you won’t have your mom there to fall back on. If you don’t look out for yourself, who will?
