As the first week of college classes wrap up, we can all reflect upon the changes we have endured this past week. Particularly those of us who are first-year students, experiencing college life for the first time. A new place to call home, enduring new living conditions, being surrounded by many new people, and new academic challenges to name a few. The first week of college has been a change, but taught me the following:
1. College = free time
After attending most of my classes twice this week, I quickly learned that the amount of class time listed on a college schedule is 100% arbitrary. I have been let out early from all my classes, even when they were scheduled to last a little over an hour. Carrying six classes, I assumed I would not have much free time. Being released early from class I have more personal time than I know what to do with; nearly twelve hours per day.
2. Living in a dorm isn't bad, it's actually fun.
Getting to decorate my own room was only half the fun. Since I moved in last week, I can easily say living in a dorm is not as bad as everyone makes it out to be. Due merely to size, my room is extremely organized, with everything in its place. Hanging out in the common room makes college living like an episode of Friends. Plus, if you have a great roommate like I do, its an awesome place to hangout with your best friend.
3. Walking to class is a workout.
As an avid Fitbit wearer fearing the freshman fifteen, I made myself a gym schedule. I quickly learned running on the treadmill is no longer necessary, when you are required to walk a mile to class everyday in the blazing sun. If that isn't enough, I am practically losing weight just by glancing at the dining hall food.
4. Dining halls assume you are an extremely picky eater.
Each day, the dining hall serves salad, pizza, stir fry, and features a "rotating station." To make it short, rotating means nothing more to college dining halls than some days serving hot dogs and other days serving hamburgers. If you enjoy healthy options, well balanced meals, or food that looks appetizing, eat elsewhere than the dining hall.
5. Free T-Shirts are a must.
The first week of school colleges hold various campus events to get new students involved, many of which bribe students with free t-shirts. Who doesn't love free items, especially ones that would cost a fortune in a college bookstore. I am guilty of attending events solely for free t-shirts, and my t-shirt drawer would be bare without them.
Overall, I am enjoying my transition to college, even with these odd observations.
