With Spring Semester beginning within the week, it's safe to say I'm entering the second semester of my freshman year much wiser. Not only has Temple taught me what to do both in and out of the classroom, but I have also learned what not to do.
1. Go to class.
The biggest thing for freshman to overcome is the reality that we don't have to go to class. Many people will take advantage of this freedom, but in reality, you might as well go. Why spend thousands of dollars each semester for classes you aren't even attending? It's also much more beneficial in terms of learning because, honestly, no one actually reads the textbooks. Just go to class and save yourself the stress.
2. Don't schedule the 8 AM- even if it means having class (on the forbidden) Friday.
I never really understood the big deal about classes on Fridays. My roommate was lucky enough to have off of classes on Fridays her first semester. While she was sounds asleep on Friday mornings, I was rolling out of bed to attend two classes that day. But overall, she had three 8 ams throughout the week and I had none. Safe to say taking the 10 AM on Fridays was well worth it for both my sleep and GPA.
3. Introduce yourself to your professors.
It may seem corny at first, but you'll be happy you did it in the long run. As nerve wracking as it is, it actually helps develop closer relationships with your professors and shows that you care more, especially if you have lecture halls like Temple does.
4. Emergen-C.
I got horribly sick within my first month at Temple. The only thing that got me out of bed and to class (besides large doses of NyQuil and Cosi's chicken noodle soup) was Emergen-C. I recommend keeping a box in your dorm.
5. It's okay to stay in some weekends.
Partying gets old after a while. After attending the same frat for several weekends with the same big, sweaty crowd, I decided I needed a night in. A friend on my floor and I watched movies and he taught me how to knit (exciting, I know).
6. "Thirsty Thursday" isn't all it's made out to be.
Especially if you have class on Friday mornings. Just don't do it.
7. Call the uber.
Referring back to 5, my favorite frat is located way off campus. In early fall semester and mid-to-late spring semester, this is no issue at all. But from December to March, this is a no from me. Take the uber and spend the $7. It's much better than waking up with bronchitis the next day.
8. Invest in a "fracket."
It sounds so stupid but it's so necessary. A friend of mine is rushing a frat on campus next semester and gave me the idea. I now have one not-so-nice jacket dedicated to nights I go out to ensure I won't get sick if I do decide not to call the uber.