1. Living on my own isn't quite as bad as I thought it would be.
When I first got to college, I didn't think I was going to be able to survive. I had always relied fully on my mom, and it was a hard concept for me to understand that I was going to have to actually do things for myself. I'll admit, it was a difficult adjustment at first, but I quickly got use to it. Taking care of myself isn't quite as hard as I thought it would be, and it's resulted in maturity.
2. A full face of makeup is not an everyday necessity.
No one really cares whether or not your eyeliner has a wing at the end or if that one pimple that popped up is covered. Some days you go with a full face, and other days it's okay to go with none. Makeup is a way to express yourself, and if you aren't feeling it one day, no worries. No one's judging you.
3. Studying however, is a necessity.
Most people can get through high school without having to study much, but in college, that won't fly. Studying is a constant thing, you won't pass without it. The library will become your best friend, and taking notes in class will become your new hobby. Coming into college, I didn't realize the importance of studying, but since being here I have studied more than I ever had to in high school.
4. Coffee is always a good idea.
I use to hate coffee, despise it. It is now almost an everyday drink for me. Coffee is always the answer. Have a long night of studying ahead of you? Go get some coffee. Need to wake up for an 8am? Gulp down some coffee. Running low on energy mid way through your day? COFFEE COFFEE COFFEE. It's always a good idea.
5. A call home is the best cure for a bad day.
You never know how much you miss your mom and dads' voices until you hear them on the phone. After a long day a call home is always something I can count on to lift my spirits. Maybe I got a disappointing grade that day or maybe I'm just missing home a little more than usual, but knowing that there are people back home rooting for me is the main thing that keeps me going. Never underestimate the power of a phone call to someone you love, it can work miracles.
College isn't easy, but I sure have learned a lot since being here.
