When I was a freshman last year, I noticed that my set mates and I fell into five main categories and, with this year's new set of freshmen, I put together a list of those categories.
1. The Sophomore-Freshman
This freshman is the one that already knows a ton of upperclassmen. Most people think they've been here longer than they have because they are hardly in their freshman dorm or with their fellow freshmen. They're not shy or timid at all (not to say all are) but they have the right amount of confidence that fits with the upperclassmen.
My advice: it's possible that you just happened to hit it off with people not in your year but try to build, at least, basic relationships with other freshmen. Don't write them off after the first few days because during that period, you all are dealing with so much and need some time to get settled. You all share the feeling of being in college for the first time ever and finding some people you can grow with is amazing.
2. The I-Hate-USD Freshman
This freshman has already given up. They hate the people and the system. It wasn't what they expected at all and thus, there is no hope for USD. Sometimes they talk about how they "should've gone to State."
My advice: you are bumming the rest of your peers out. You have been here for about a minute so conclusions shouldn't be drawn yet. College here and anywhere else is honestly what you make it so start making USD a home and it'll become just that in these upcoming four years. Spoiler: there is hope.
3. The Absolutely-Smitten Freshman
This is the polar opposite of the I-Hate-USD freshman. They probably wanted to come to USD ever since they saw it and now they're here and it is everything they imagined -- and more! The campus is beautiful 24/7 and so are the people. They join as many clubs and go to as many school events as they can because, hello, why wouldn't you? I was once like you. And I kind of still am, truly. I go to as many events as I can not only because I am so privileged to be here, but because I also paid for it.
My advice: leave room for the ability to criticize. Everything is beautiful but not everything is perfect and, as a paying student here, your job is to see what's wrong and think of what you can do to make positive change.
4. The Partay Freshman
As soon as they land, they are everywhere there is a party (which is funny because Mondays aren't usually party days but what do I know? All I do is stay in.) This freshman is over the moon about finally living on their own and being able to do whatever and go wherever they want because there are no parents breathing down their neck. They aren't really feeling classes yet because it's all about hanging out and having fun for now.
My advice: I think the best and worst thing about college is that you can do whatever you want. Seriously. There's no one really making sure you do what's required or reminding you of what you need to get to and it can be a problem. Start planning as soon as possible so you can get used to having a routine and meeting deadlines because the time in the semester is coming when all your free time disappears completely and you do not want to be caught unawares.
5. The Freshman-Freshman
In my observation of the different types of freshmen, I found what can only be called the Freshman Freshman because they are a whole combination of all listed above. This is the type of freshman you will say you are. This is the type of freshman you will claim you were. They have achieved social and emotional balances in their stay at so far at college, which is not to say they aren't confused or unsure in some aspects, but they acknowledge their confusion and are aware that it's okay. This person is really just going with the flow, keeping their mind open, and taking advantage of all USD offers so far.
All of these types have valuable traits but too much of a thing is never good, be it enthusiasm or skepticism. Balance is the major key.
Can you tell what kind of freshman you were/are?
