As a first-generation college student, I had very little information on how college was going to work. Over the course of this past semester, there are a few things I wish DJ Khaled had told me before move in day so I didn’t have to learn the hard way.
1. You should study.
This sounds silly, but it’s important. For many people, myself included, high school was a breeze. I studied of course, but when I started college classes, I found myself needing to spend more time studying in order to get that A. There isn’t any shame in this, studying isn’t something to be ashamed of. And go to tutoring, go to office hours, ask those questions. You’re here because you want to learn, so why would you cut corners?
2. But don’t forget about socializing.
Everyone wants to have fun – this isn’t a sin. But don’t try to have a party on a Tuesday night when you have a bio test the next day. This isn’t a good idea and you will regret it. But inevitably, when you do it, you’ll make some memories and friends that will last forever.
3. Sleep is a major key to success.
We’ve all seen the picture that lists sleep, social life and good grades, and says to pick two. That is probably the most relevant thing ever, but if you work on your time management skills, it will really make a difference. Try to get at least seven hours a night. You’ll thank yourself later.
4. You need a major, not a significant other. So don’t worry about dating.
I write about this a lot. Delta Gamma at Ohio State has created this great campaign about breaking stereotypes. One in particular stood out to me and it was the “society expects us to marry lawyers, but I’m going to be one.” Let me say something, once and for all. Man or woman, you do not need to marry rich. You don’t need to be supported, you are fully capable of slaying this world by yourself. Get that degree and get that money.
5. Getting your priorities in line is harder than it seems.
To quote the great Childish Gambino, “the only thing I put before me is ‘do re’”. Love yourself. You do you, and don’t worry about anything else. It will fall into place as long as you remember what you love, who you are and where you came from. Don’t forget that.
6. Don’t forget about your high school friends, chances are you’ll need them more than you think.
My best friend came to the same college as I did, and frankly, I was terrified it would be a bad thing because we would not make any new friends or we would begin to hate each other. That is the furthest thing from the truth. My hometown friend has been there since I was rocking the middle part and listening to Hannah Montana. They know more about you than anyone else will, so don’t forget about them. They’ll pick up the phone regardless if you’re sad or if you want to go halfies on your midnight pizza order.
7. Your family loves you, and they miss you a lot when you’re gone.
It doesn’t matter how much you feel like they hate you, or how much you fight, or how much you disagree, to some degree, they miss you. Call your mom sometimes. It doesn’t have to be every single day, and she will understand that you’re busy. But try to reach out every week or so. Tell your siblings you love them. It means a lot.
8. It’s OK to not be OK.
Talk to someone if you need to. There is no shame in this. Really. Go back and read that again. There is absolutely no shame. Life is hard, and there are people who will help you through it all if you just let them. Do not neglect yourself.
