For those either going into their first year of college, or those returning; we're all going to be leaving the nest. We won't be hearing the same advice or lessons anymore. So, just before we leave, here are some lessons that while have been said many times over, are just one last reminder to us.
1. Trust your instincts
Especially in college, when you're on your own now, the only person you can fully trust is yourself. If you're at a party and something feels off; trust your instincts. Don't ignore the basic intuition that's trying to preserve your safety.
2. You are what you eat
Freshman fifteen. Freshman twenty. It's a thing. I know, I know, ramen is good and cheap. But trying to lose those extra pounds that you start packing on is not. It's going to start counting now; choosing between a hamburger and fries one day is going to turn into three days and eventually you're going to be covered in oil soaked hamburger papers and empty pizza boxes.
3. Know Your Limits
College is going to be adventurous, new. Don't do anything that's too extreme. Even if everyone around you is doing more, you should know by now how your body reacts best. Maybe you can handle ten tequila shots or maybe you get buzzed from a couple of beers. Know your limits.
4. Your GPA does not define you
You worked your butt off in high school. Now it's the time when your grades start to really matter. There's not going to be chances for extra credit, skipping classes are going to affect your grades, and it's all going to be on you now. Regardless, your GPA does not put a numerical grade on your worth. Take some advice from Mae Mobley; if she knows it, why don't you?
5. Be brave enough to break your own heart
Yeah, things are going to suck sometimes. Guaranteed. But if you're stuck between a rock and a hard place, you're going to have to be able to save yourself. Even if it means hurting yourself in the process. It might be scary, daunting, and painful. Eventually, the destination was worth the journey.
6. Don't let fear hold you back
You know those things that you want to do. Where can you imagine yourself, what you can imagine yourself doing? So why aren't you going for it? Don't let yourself be the only thing that's holding you from achieving greatness.
