People told me plenty of advice when I started college. Some of it was useful, and some of it wasn't. Here are eleven things I wish I would have been told before I began my college journey.
1. Get creative in the cafeteria.
No matter how good your cafeteria is, you will get tired of the food. This means you need to get creative. It is important to discover a variety of ways to transform the food they serve on a regular basis. Also while we are on the topic of food, don't eat desserts or drink soda at every meal.
2. Do your laundry in the morning.
This way you can get your clothes washed in no time. Put them in the washer when you head to your first class. After that class put them in the dryer. Presto, your clothes are clean without having to wait for a washer or dryer to open up.
3. Get involved on campus.
Find a club, intramurals, or organization to get involved with. This way you will meet other students with similar interests and won't stay holed up in your room. Also, intramurals are a fun way to get exercise.
4. Try something outside of your comfort zone.
You might find something you love by trying new things. How do you know if you'll love something if you never experience it?
5. It is totally fine not having a clue what you want to major in.
When you go to college, everyone asks what your major is. It is ok to say you don't know. Say it with pride. It isn't something shameful. College is a time to take a variety of classes and find where your passions are. You will decide on something before your four years are up.
6. Meet your professors.
It is important to introduce yourself to your professors. This way they know that you care about the class. They will help you if you ask them. Don't be afraid to meet with them during their office hours.
7. Sit towards the front of the class.
I know you don't want to be a teacher's pet, but this will help your grade. It will show that you want to do well in the class. You will be more likely to pay attention because the professor will know if you fall asleep or are on your phone. Also, it will help keep you accountable because a professor will notice if you don't show up for class.
8. Be choosy when it comes to your books.
If you can wait to order your books until after your first day of classes, I would. I have had several classes where the book hasn't been used at all. If you do end up needing a book for a class, try to purchase it somewhere other than your college bookstore. You will be able to find the book for a cheaper price, and you may be able to rent it. You want to save money however you can because books are expensive and college students are broke.
9. Only pack what you need.
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When you move into your dorm, don't bring everything from home. This includes clothes. First, you won't use half of it. Secondly, it will cause your dorm room to be cluttered, and you won't have enough drawers/closet space. You only have so much room, and it can be smaller than you expect.
10. Don't go home every weekend.
Weekends can be a blast on campus. It is a time to hangout with friends without worrying about homework due the next day. You will miss out on awesome memories if you go home every weekend. This doesn't mean don't go home at all. Sometimes a weekend at home can be the best medicine to get you through the next several weeks of college.
11. Call your parents.
I'm not saying you have to call them every day, but do call them. They care about you and want to hear how your life is going. Remember you are learning to navigate adulthood, and they are learning how to let you go. They are worried about you so call them at least once a week. The sound of your voice can make so many of their worries and fears go away. One day you aren't going to have them anymore, and you are going to wish you could call them. Don't wait until it is too late.
There is not one perfect way to navigate your college career. Only you can discover what works for you. This will take quite a bit of trial and error, but I hope you keep this advice in mind as you find your way.
