As soon as you’re getting ready to head off to college, it seems as though everyone is giving you advice on how to handle your freshman year. “Watch out for the freshman 15” or “the first semester is the hardest,” were things that I heard from practically everyone I encountered. Thinking myself prepared for any situation, I was surprised when I faced a few scenarios that I wasn’t expecting and had to sort out for myself. Hopefully, this article will help you feel a little more prepared than you already are for your upcoming freshman year, Class of 2019.
1. Grades will take on a new meaning.
For our entire elementary lives we are training in school for one thing: getting into college. I remember getting a C in my fifth grade English class and thinking to myself, “Now, I’ll never get into a good college.” Well, now that you’re in college, what’s the point of keeping your grades high? As long as you’re not flunking everything then you’re fine, right?
When I was in high school, I was able to sign into a website and check my grades at any time. In college, depending on your professor, you’re probably not going to know what your grade is until finals are finished. So it can be a slippery slope remembering to keep them up. Missing an assignment here or there may appear harmless because grades don’t seem as important anymore, but be warned -- those skipped items can add up. Grades no longer mean entrance into college, but instead help you keep scholarships, participate in sports or Greek life, and earn a spot on the Dean or President’s list.
2. You do not have to be a partier.
Anyone who knows me knows that I’m not big into drinking or clubbing, however there are so many people that are. Parents are no longer around to keep students from staying out until 5 a.m. or skipping class because they have a hangover. Therefore, lots of people go out to parties, and I’m not talking about going out Friday or Saturday night, but Tuesday night on the week of finals (I think that was when I first went out). While it may seem as though you can’t make friends without going out, trust me when I say you will be just fine staying in. You should go out to have fun, not because you feel pressured to do so. Trust me when I say no one will judge you if you prefer to stay in because you have an 8 a.m. class and a bunch of homework to do. They might even be a little envious of your dedication.
3. Everybody wants to know your major.
And when I say that every single person is going to ask about your major, I also mean that they will judge your major, as well. I don’t know what it is about being in college that makes adults feel the need to critique your life choices, but they will. Like, okay random person I met in line at Starbucks -- that’s great that you double majored in chemistry and mathematics, but I can barely add without using my fingers. So, sorry if my major isn’t “the right choice” for you. You’re in college to prepare for your life. Don’t be discouraged from pursuing your interests just because other people feel the need to butt into your personal decisions.
4. Leave the drama in high school.
High school was a time filled with awkward phases and pettiness, so how about leaving that behind. You’re in college now, technically you’re an adult (even if it doesn’t feel that way yet). Don’t seek out drama because people are not going to appreciate it. College is serious, but fun. There will always be those people who seem to have petty drama follow them around, and I’d suggest staying away from them if possible. If you let your college years be tainted with situations you experienced in high school, then what’s the point of going anyways?
5. Bring your posters!
Alright, this one may not seem quite so serious, but it was a problem I faced on my first day. I was so distracted with making sure I had bedspreads, outfits, a toothbrush, electrical outlets, light bulbs, etc. that I forgot to bring any wall decorations. My room was pretty bare for the first few days and it drove me crazy. Whether it be a poster of your favorite band or photos of your friends and family, make sure you bring things to make your dorm feel more like a home and less like school.
While your freshman year is going to be much more complex than these five items, I’m hoping that they will make your first semester just a little bit smoother than it would’ve been before. Remember that the first few weeks will always be hard, but you’re getting the toughest year out of the way! By the end of your freshman year you’ll have a friend group and routine set that will make the summers seem too long and the school year too short. Just take a deep breath and enjoy your college experience.
