Spring is the season of campus tours. As I walk to class, I see herds of families listening to information about buildings and gazing at students passing by. I feel like an animal in a zoo. Before I get annoyed over the fact that my trek to class now takes five minutes longer, I have to remind myself that I was once in their shoes, completely unsure of my future and honestly, scared. I wish I could go back in time, for if I could, then I would tell myself these 6 things:
1. You will end up where you are meant to be.
I remember everyone talked about how they got this special “feeling” when they first stepped onto their future campus. That did not happen to me, and I am happier than ever. Do some research, and pick the college that fits most of your needs.
2. Your decision isn’t permanent.
Whether it’s working, going to a community college, or attending a university, you always have the option to change what you are doing. No one will judge if you decide to transfer or move back home after a year. Life is unpredictable, and it is impossible to have a strict plan for your future.
3. You will lose some friends from high school, and that is okay.
That best friend who you will stay BFFs with forever and she will be your maid of honor and you’ll make your kids be best friends too? Yeah, there is a good chance that won’t happen. Distance is hard, and college is a time for major growth. You might drift apart into different people, and that is okay.
4. You will make friends.
I remember I was so scared that I wouldn’t make any friends. Trust me, you will. It’s fine if you don’t love the people in your hall. Join clubs, and get involved on campus. College has way more people than high school. You are bound to find someone to click with.
5. Break up with your significant other.
Harsh, I know. Unless he or she is the absolute love of your life, then you should let him or her go. Like I said before, college is a time for major growth. You need to be independent and figure some things out as a single person in society. Plus, you don’t want to be held back from anything.
6. Don’t compare yourself to others.
During my first year, I remember hearing about other students who already had internships and knew what their major was since they were five. I went in undeclared, and what I wanted to do eventually came to me. Once again, you will end up doing what you are supposed to be doing, and your decision isn’t permanent. Do your own thing.
