When I moved into my dorm for the first time last year, it was extremely nerve-wracking. I didn't know anyone, people were loud and running around everywhere and it was so chaotic. Looking back I think I stressed a little too much, because after the first day there things settled down and I fell in love with college life! If you're a first time college freshman, people will be trying to give you advice from the time you get there until the time you leave. It's good to know which to follow and which to ignore (mostly ignore what your high school teachers warned about!)
1. Let your parents help you unpack.
If you are going to college away from home, there is a good chance you'll live in a dorm on campus. When you get there you have to make your bed, unpack, and get some things you need for school (ID, keys, etc.). Your parents are probably going to want to help make your bed, unpack your bags and clean up. Let them! They're just as nervous as you are. It's important to spend what little time you have with them, because in a week you'll be missing home and wishing your mom was there to help you do your dishes.
2. Talk to your roommate.
9 times out of 10 you aren't going to know your roommate very well, if at all. Start a conversation! If you get to know them, you might end up being good friends. Even if you don't really like them, it's important to communicate any problems you have, especially if you live in a traditional dorm room.
3. Get to know your professors.
This doesn't mean you have to suck up to them or be their best friend. If you go to a smaller school like me, class sizes aren't huge and your professor knows you by name. It's a good idea to at least learn theirs, and maybe even strike up a conversation (when there's time) once and awhile! Some of my professors were the kindest, most caring people I have ever met. Don't let your high school teacher's stories of awful professors scare you. They probably just told you horror stories so you would pay attention in their classes!
4. Watch your surroundings.
If you're going to college away from home, it's good to learn the area. Go on walks with friends or your roommate to get to know the streets, the campus and maybe some local stores or restaurants. No one wants to think bad things will happen to them, but if you're lost in the dark in an unfamiliar place, you never know. Be cautious of strangers and try to make sure you're not walking alone, especially at night.
5. Keep a schedule.
It's okay to have fun, but not too much fun! Make a study schedule so you can figure out when your free time is. Weekends can be exciting on campus or in town, but they can also be spent studying for your exam or working on a project. If you learn anything, I hope that it's that parties will come and go and it's okay to miss a few, especially when your future is at stake! And if your roommate or friend tries to make you do something that you don't want to do, don't let them. Your education is way more important than going out!
