As the new school year rapidly approaches, I find myself constantly reminiscing over the past three years. Is it really possible that I'm already a senior in college? I feel as though I have only just begun "adulting" and now in the next year, I plan on getting my big girl job. To be honest, I'm absolutely terrified. I am still convinced that I'm not nearly ready enough to go out into the big bad world. I still have a hard time remembering that I'm not a teenager anymore!
I am envious of the new incoming freshmen, bright-eyed and bushy tailed. They have no idea how fast it goes, because honestly, I didn't either. There are so many things that I would tell my freshman year self, so that's what I'm going to do now.
Get involved on campus.
No, you're not "too good" to get involved. There are so many clubs and organizations available that it's impossible not to be interested in at least one! As a freshman, I was hesitant to do these things. I felt as though I didn't need to get involved. Now, I only wish I had participated more during my first two years of college.
Don't worry about boys.
This is a huge one. I came into college with a boyfriend of two years. If I could go back, I would've been single all throughout college (okay, I have a boyfriend now -- but he's actually decent, so it doesn't count!). Don't let stupid boys ruin your fun! Go out with your girlfriends, get drunk, flirt with boys, have fun! College is too short to worry about stupid boys and let them ruin your fun.
Make new friends!
Don't rely on your high school friends who went to the same college with you. That's what I did. Many of the kids from my high school went to the same college as I did. We all tend to flock together! I was lucky and played sports my freshman year, so I made friends that way. Looking back now, I don't have many friends that weren't from the same town as me! It's more than okay to branch out and meet new people!
Focus on your grades.
I know that everyone tells you this, but I can seriously say that it matters. Your freshman year is the building point for your GPA. If you fail a class (like I did), you will be screwed. I have spent the last two years working my butt off trying to make up for it. Not to mention, gen eds are extremely easy compared to your core/major classes. Don't slack off!
Study abroad!
I never, in a million years, thought that I would study abroad in college. Thanks to my amazing parents and Peru State College for providing me with the opportunity, I was able to travel Europe this spring. It was the best experience of my life! Not only was I able to travel with my friends, I learned so much and will never forget the amazing time that I had!
Don't take anything for granted.
I never in a million years thought college would go by this quickly. Don't waste your time worrying about the little things! Focus on making new friends, getting involved and getting good grades. Choose a major that you're passionate about, because you'll eventually start looking for a career (like me). Don't be afraid to branch out. Don't be afraid to take risks!
Do you remember what it was like to be a senior in high school, anxiously awaiting graduation? Do you remember thinking, "Wow, these four years have gone by fast." Not to mention, thinking of the things you could've, would've, should've done differently. Well, you'll get that feeling again before you know it. I sure have.
