Being a freshman in college is one of the most anxious/exciting years of our college careers. Everything is new from friends to not living with parents, to even the size and difficulty of classes. Don't be nervous, though, because here are six things you should know coming into college as a freshman!
1. Go to class.
This is something almost every upperclassmen will tell you, but as a freshman being away from home, skipping class can make one feel somewhat edgy and feed our need to rebel. Going to class in college is imperative and can make all the difference when it comes to studying and even having inside information. Every freshman is different and all have different styles of taking notes and studying, so don't rely on just getting your roommate's incomplete notes and miss out on important information!
2. STUDY!!!!!!!
Say goodbye to the straight A's you received in high school without having to study, because you are now in college! One important part of college is learning how to live everyday life as an adult, one big thing you need to learn is how not to just skate by, and how to put all of yourself in everything. From English to Calculus, Biology to Religion, each class requires a certain amount of studying in order to achieve academic success. Do not rely on all-nighters to just cram everything in because it will catch up to you sooner than you think.
3. Don't be a potato.
Another large part of college is finding your niche, and not just in academics. Joining clubs, extracurricular activities, Greek life and even intramurals; every person has things they love, even if you do not know it yet. This is a super easy way to get out, make connections and find people with the same interests or major as you. If you sit in your room and never leave, you will hate college, so get out and find your niche! Don't become a potato.
4. Get out of your comfort zone.
Sometime or another we all will have to leaver our safe bubble of being comfortable and learn new things. A good thing to remember is that when you're nervous and around a lot of other freshman, they are nervous too! One thing I've learned through experience is just to let go, have fun and not care what others think of you.
5. Don't be afraid to get a tutor.
The majority of college students skated through high school easily never cracking a book or having to study, but in college there are so many classes that are just plain tough. One of the hardest things to accept in college is that you can't do everything by yourself, especially when it comes to your upper level courses. These courses aren't impossible but are just slightly more difficult. Finding a tutor can make exponential differences, even if they just show you how to study for this certain class or if you need help learning and getting through. Don't settle for a C, take advantage and find a tutor!
6. Save your money.
As tempting as it is to eat at Taco Bell every night, without a job, this can be a difficult task. Most schools offer a meal plan with a dining hall or cafeteria and also a small cafe or coffee house. While yes, the food is so much better than your public high school, it can be hard to eat the same thing every day but you need to remember, it's free!
College will be the best four years of your life. These tips can help you survive your freshman year a little easier!
