Firstly, congratulations! If you're reading this article then you're finally on your way. College is the first stepping stone in your journey to becoming a real adult! You're probably wondering about a lot of different things right now but don't worry, everything's going to be absolutely fantastic. Here are some things you can expect from the land beyond high school.
1. You will be pushed and dragged around to a multitude of different presentations upon your arrival on Opening Weekend
It's not that the school doesn't love you, they just want you to experience everything that the school has to offer. All at once, for some unknown reason. That part will be done soon.
2. It’s going to be hard to keep track of your friends in the first few weeks
You're going to be jumping around a lot in the beginning, so it's going to be tough to keep the friends that you were so desperately clinging to at orientation. That's okay! Meeting new people and having a billion acquaintances is all part of the college experience.
3. You might not like your roommates (or you might like them a lot)
Since you're a freshman, you're probably being thrown into a forced triple. That definitely sounds worse than it actually is. Sure, it'll be a little cramped with three of you living in a double room, but how else are you supposed to build some close relationships? You might have a roommate conflict but it will probably be nothing that a good conversation can't solve.
4. Campus food is not that bad, YOU WILL LIVE
Sure, campus food isn't great, I will admit to this. But it really isn't all that bad with all things considered. Think about it, you've got these people cooking for thousands of students not to mention faculty and staff, every single day. Campus food won't be gourmet but honestly, what were you expecting?
5. Your classes will be challenging! However easy high school was for you is completely irrelevant here!
No matter what your major is, your classes freshman year will definitely throw you a little. This isn't to say that you aren't incredibly bright, which I'm sure you are; but you haven't taken classes quite like this. Of course, high schools offer "college level" classes but they are far from the real thing. Learn how to study, know your resources for help and tutoring, and it'll be fine.
6. Homesickness is a very real phenomenon, but don’t let it discourage you
This is probably the first time you've left home for more than a week. That's pretty big regardless of how nonchalant you're trying to make it seem. You're going to miss your parents and siblings once they hang up the phone. Remember, you have so many people both at college and at home rooting for you to pass with flying colors. As cheesy as it may sound, no matter how alone you feel, you will have a friend everywhere you turn.
