1. You're not alone!
When I was dorm shopping my mom had like 3 different lists from different websites of, “things every college student needs.” And the whole time we shopped I was thinking there is no way I need all of this stuff! Turns out she was right! I actually needed more than I thought and when the spring semester started I came back with even more stuff, things I never even saw on Pinterest!
2. Dorm life isn't as bad as it seems.
I know the idea of having to live 5 feet away from another person can sound scary but it’s not as bad as it seems. Finding a great roommate who has similar interests and sleep schedules is really important. If you can find a person you can connect with, living together won’t be so bad. It might take some getting used to your first couple nights but after awhile it becomes a part of your new normal.
4. Time management is everything.
When I was in high school, I had little to no free time so when I got to college I expected the same. Some of my high school teachers prepared me for the demand of a college course so coming in I wasn’t too nervous about the speed or the homework size. However, I was shocked about the amount of free time I do have, my weekends consist of a couple hours of studying or homework but on the weekends I sleep a lot more than I thought I would.
5. Getting close to professors is okay.
My department, chemistry, is quite small compared to some of the other on campus so being close with professors is normal. My advisor and I talk nearly every day and I have other professors who just like to joke around with the students. During my club meetings, some of the professors will come in and give some students a hard time, in a joking way of course. Becoming close with your department is a good thing in my eyes, they can see if you’re struggling or when you’re succeeding and they will let you know.
6. Don’t be afraid and make the most of your experience.
Coming to college might sound scary and until you get adjusted it might be a lot to handle, but in the end, you get out what you put in. If you put the work in and have a good time you will be rewarded in the end, whether that be an internship, graduate school or maybe even a friendship. In the end, it's all worth it.
