I am a desk worker in freshman residence hall. As I am sitting at the desk, writing this article, I am noticing freshman walk by either pushing a cart or hugging their parents goodbye. I remember move in like it was only a year ago. As I am sitting here observing, I want to tell them so many things from everything will be worth it and that the first semester will be stressful. College is an amazing, stressful, and a great new chapter. the whole purpose of this article is to simply give the advice that I want to give to every college freshman and some things that I have wished I have known as a freshman.
Congratulations! You have graduated from high school, passed the dreaded ACT or SAT. Take a moment and think back on how fast high school flew by. Now imagine college flying by hundred times faster. One moment you are that eager freshman waiting to embark on your college years, and the next moment you blink your eyes and you're entering into your second year, like me. For some people these could be the last four years of school. Ever. For others, you could be on the five, six, or even seven year track before you graduate. Enjoy every minute of these years, because sooner than you realize you will be entering...the real world. This is a scary thought for most of us.
Take advantage of everything college has to offer, the internships, the parties, the tutoring, etc. Get involved on campus, whether it's Greek life, student organizations or intramurals. You will meet so many people if you get involved and be active, and you will have so much more to do. Do not wish your college years away. I repeat, do not wish your college years away. I have been guilty of sometimes saying, "I can't wait to graduate and get out of here!" These are the best years of your life. Do not take them for granted. Enjoy your friends. Boyfriends/girlfriends will come and go, but your true friends will always be there. Go have a girls' night, or guys' night and have a blast. The best moments in college are when you go out with friends and may (or may not) remember the night, but can wake up the next day laughing knowing you had a great time.
Finally, do not blow off your classes. Even though these are the last four years to live it up, there is a life after college. Your GPA does matter. You will regret it when you have to take a class over. Try your hardest, work hard, have tons of fun, and take advantage of what college has to offer. Trust me, it is a blast.
