High School seniors- this one's for you. College is one of the most exciting times in any person's life, but there are a few things that no one is going to tell you. Enter me. (Get the Hamilton reference?)
1. You are going to miss your family.
It doesn't matter if your best friends with your family or you never see eye to eye with them. You are going to miss having someone familiar around you, and let's face it, your family are the people most familiar with you. Homesickness is normal and it doesn't mean you hate college.
2. Money goes quick.
I always thought the stereotype of a broke college student would never be me; needless to say, the joke was on me. There are one thousand things that come up when you get a few extra dollars. College is expensive.
3. Home cooked meals are about to become your new best friends.
It's move-in day and you can't wait to eat in the cafeteria like all of the cool college kids you saw on your tour. Two weeks later you're thinking about how you can't wait to eat a home cooked meal. The cafeteria is fun and sure the food all looks really good, but the sad reality is that it's all going to taste the same after two weeks. Savor the meals you get at home.
4. Living in a dorm is really weird.
You think living in a dorm is going to be like every movie you've seen- think again. You're living in a building full of strangers, and while it is really fun, it's weird. Do you make eye contact when you see a girl you know in the hall and you have on a face mask and the sweatpants you never leave your house in? It's a tricky situation.
5. The classes really aren't that hard--you can do it.
Show up to class, keep up with the reading, and always do the extra credit when it's offered. Make use of all the spare time you have so you don't have to rely on cramming to get you a good grade.
6. No one cares what you wear to class.
The first week you're going to try to look decent for class, a nice outfit, maybe some makeup. By the end of your first week, you realize that is all pointless. You'll see last night's outfits, pajamas, and everything in between. You do you, boo boo.
7. Sharing a small space brings out the best in everyone.
I had never shared a room before I went to college, and I was petrified at the very thought! I absolutely love my roommate (hey Ellis), she is the bomb.com and has made the transition to college so much easier for me! Having to share a confined space will help you realize that you're not a perfect person and will really give you an appreciation for others.
8. The Freshman 15 is a real thing.
Using your meal swipe for ice cream is a real thing. It is also a dangerous thing- proceed with caution. Try to eat balanced meals and drink water every once in a while and all will be right with the world.
9. Take care of your mental health and get help if you need it.
There is no shame in that game! Most schools have free counseling services- seek them out. No one has to know, not even your parents. No one is going to take care of you like you.
10. There are no friends like old friends.
My best friend and I went to different colleges and it was SO hard. I felt bad for making new friends, but those new friendships helped me appreciate all of my old friendships. I love all of my new friends, but there's nothing quite like catching up with her after a long week. (Who am I kidding--we talk every day.)
