1. Visit and keep in touch with all of your friends
When the end of the summer before college came to a close, it was devastating to say goodbye to a close-knit group of friends. There were so many unspoken questions: “Will we stay in touch?” “What if things are different?” and “Will we still be friends after this year?” One of the ways to answer those questions is to visit those friends. However, it isn’t required to visit other people at school. I didn’t visit my friends my first year of college, but this past summer showed that our ties are stronger than ever. As I write this, my Greyhound ticket to visit a friend in Boston is in the background. If school is too busy and you couldn’t make time to visit your home friends freshman year, don’t sweat it. Everyone who matters is still here and fine with waiting.
2. Do something fun and adventurous every weekend
Going to college is a ton of fun. There are countless activities to do and places to see. However, college is busy! There were responsibilities on campus and schoolwork during your first year. You may not have explored the area, or gone out with your friends as much as you’d hoped. My philosophy on this is not to worry-- the city and your friends aren’t going anywhere. There is no pressure to do everything simply because you’re in such close proximity; this idea is true sophomore, junior and senior years too. Just remember that there is plenty of time in four years!
3. Be surrounded by friends 24/7
For the most part, college is a very socially immersive place. Living with all of your friends was awesome, and it did make it easier to see and hang out with them. What no one talks about is how exhausting that can be. It’s okay to have needed a moment to yourself, or to have not go out with everyone every night. Everyone was afraid to be alone in the beginning, but over time that feeling wore off. You realized that the fear of missing out was real, but could be conquered with the promise of a nap and a little time to recharge.
4. Maintain or do better than your grades from high school
This one is a little rough. College academics are very different from high school academics. Whether you planned to improve from your high school standards or hoped to stay at the same level, it’s possible you didn’t reach that particular goal. That’s okay! It’s common to experience a little dip in grades, especially during the first semester.
5. Look your best every day
College felt temporary when you first started. Everyone was new and you felt like you needed to dress to impress all the time. You soon learned that not many people dress up to go to class—especially in winter. Leggings and sweatshirts were basically the uniform. Similar to the whole it’s okay to be alone concept, people don’t care what you’re wearing or if your makeup is perfect. Dress however you like, and you’ll be better for it.
