Here are a few things that you learn along the way during your first semester away at college.
1. How to make new friends
Coming to campus for the first time after spending so many years in the same place with the same people can be terrifying. Chances are, you’ve had the same group of friends for a long time; however, meeting so many amazing, unique, new people can be as rewarding as it is daunting. The “what’s your name?” “what’s your major?” “where are you from?” small talk will probably be painful, and the small-group icebreakers will be as uncomfortable as always. Don’t put so much pressure on yourself to find your future maid of honor on the first day of orientation. The best friendships happen friendships. Just stick it out for a while, and soon enough, you’ll have new friends that you can’t imagine life without.
2. Balance
Whether it be between studying and a social life, work and extracurriculars, or grilled cheese and salad, learning how to balance different aspects of your life is another crucial skill you will pick up in your first semester. It’s pretty easy to get ridiculously overwhelmed with so many responsibilities hanging over your head. Try to create structure in your life, and don’t let yourself fall into bad habits early on. College is first and foremost about getting your education, but remember to have fun as well!
3. The unspoken laundry room rules
People in the laundry room can be brutal. If you leave your clothes in the dryer after the time is up, someone will definitely dump them on the floor. Sometimes, especially cruel students will put their clothes in a machine that you payed for while you’re not looking. When doing laundry, remember the golden rule. If you wouldn’t want somebody to touch your freshly washed clothes, don’t touch other people’s clothes. If you wouldn’t want someone else using a machine all day to do separate loads for every color of the rainbow, don’t do that yourself. It’s pretty simple. Just be a courteous, considerate human and your laundry experience should be relatively uneventful.
4. How to study
I thought I knew how to study before I came to college. I did know how to make flashcards, retype notes, and work in groups, but it took a lot of trial and error to figure out what actually helps me process and learn material. Everybody learns differently, and it’s ok if it takes some time for you to settle into a good study routine. You might not ace your first test. That’s fine. Don’t give up on your degree just yet. I promise, there are plenty more to come in the next four years.
5. Time flies when you’re having fun
Looking back at this semester is absolutely. So much has changed in such a short time, and I can’t believe it’s over already. It truly feels like move in day was a few short weeks ago! I guarantee you will grow and mature more in a few months than you did in four years of high school. Savor every moment of this semester, because before you know it, you’ll be halfway through your first year of college.
