Incoming freshmen,
I understand. Just a year ago, I was you. I was nervous about starting a new chapter in my life. I wish I'd had someone to sit me down and tell me everything I needed to know. There are thousands of blogs and Pinterest pins with tips for your first year of college. Most of them talk about move-in day and what to pack verses what not to pack. There’s so much more than that. I know you need insight on what to do after you unpack because that's exactly what I needed. If you follow all of these tips, you will have a wonderful transition into college life.
1. Go to different events on campus.
Go to the involvement fair and the programs your RAs put on for you. The memories from those events are priceless, and the people you will meet are wonderful.
2. If you have to work during the school year, find a job on campus.
It’ll be closer to your classes and dorm, but most importantly, your boss will understand that you’re a student first. Plus, it’s super fun working with people who are in the same class/situation as you as opposed to working with random people with whom you have nothing in common.
3. Make the most out of your dorm.
There will be people who hate the dorm you’ve been assigned to. Don’t listen to them. If you find the positives and meet great people, you can be one of the students who loved their dorm life more than anything.
4. If you’re just surfing the Internet or scrolling through social media, prop your door open.
You will meet so many people by being open. People can peek in as they walk by and start conversation. I met some amazing friends by doing this.
5. Learn how to do laundry before you leave home and PRACTICE!
If not, you’ll be like me for the first few weeks and call your mom every time you do laundry for a quick little refresher.
6. Study hard.
College is a great part of your life, but you are still there to get an education. Make sure you study for exams and do your homework so you can get good grades. Remember, C’s get degrees but A’s get paid.
7. Party harder.
Don’t be so caught up in your studies that you never have fun. If you’re getting stressed out, take a break, order some food and have a movie night with your friends. You’ll maintain your sanity while having a good time.
8. Learn your order at Starbucks.
Trust me, you don’t have to be a coffee drinker in college. However, there will be a time where someone wants to have a meeting at Starbucks and you should know what you like just in case.
9. Put yourself out there and be yourself.
If you’ve always wanted to join a certain club or study a certain subject, do it! Not only will you be partaking in something that makes you happy, but you’ll also meet people with similar interests.
10. Learn what food places are around your campus and which places deliver.
There will be a time when you want anything and everything but dining hall food, so you should know which pizza places deliver and who’s always having some sort of deal. (Quick shoutout to Qdoba and Domino’s for always having my back. You guys are the real MVPs.)
11. Most importantly, call your mom.
It sounds like a stupid tip, but when you go from seeing her every day to seeing her once every month or so, you’re going to miss her dearly. Don’t just call her when you need a favor. Call her to tell her about everything. She’ll be so thrilled to hear about your A on the difficult exam. She’ll know exactly how to solve your roommate feud, and she’ll be a great listener while you vent about how stressed you are. She will always be your number one fan no matter what. Don't forget that!
At first, college can seem like a foreign land. But if you put yourself out there and enjoy yourself, you will have the best college experience ever. College is full of ups and downs. There might be times when you want to cry and give up. There might also be times when you wish to stay in college forever. This roller coaster of emotions will prepare you for life. Play your cards right, and it’ll be the best four years of your life. You can do it. I believe in you.
Good luck.
