Dear College Freshman,
You made it past High School and are finally starting college! In 4 short years you'll be in "the real world", but for now, this could be the best 4 years of your life. Somewhere between the boxes, trunk, suitcase(s), and other items you have lying around your house ready to be moved-in, you probably have some nerves as well. For some of you, it could be the first time you've been away from home for this long, or maybe you haven't had to study before, or maybe you just don't know how to make friends. Regardless of where you stand on being ready for college, I learned a few things that I hope will help.
1. Find your classrooms before the class
You've probably been to campus at least a few times before you move-in for good, but you probably don't know exactly where your classrooms are. Even if your campus is small, figuring out where you need to be on Monday morning can not only save you a lot of time, but you'll look like you belong.
2. Keep your door open
For most colleges, the Freshmen move in early, so it'll only be you guys and the RAs on campus. Since everyone is new, keeping your door open not only gives you someone to sit with aside from your roommate at dinner, but you might just make some new friends.
3. Don't go to every club you sign up for
There are probably going to be a lot of clubs at the club fair, and you'll probably sign up for a bunch of them, but you probably won't have time. There's nothing wrong with going to first meetings, but just go to the clubs you actually have an interest in- don't just go to pass the time.
4. Meet with your professors
You've probably heard this one a lot, but it actually does make a difference. In classes with over 50 people, the likelihood of your professor knowing who you are when it comes time to grade isn't likely, but if you get to know them and let them know you, you'll find that a more personal connection can go a long way.
5. Pick a major that makes YOU happy
I started college as a New Media and that lasted about 3.5 days. I was bored out of my mind, no offense to current New Media majors, but it just wasn't for me. On the last day of the add/drop period, I switched to Psychology, and it was definitely my best decision. Not only do I enjoy my classes, but when I'm paying back these loans, at least it will be for something I enjoyed.
6. Bring an extra pillow and blanket
When I brought another blanket and pillow, I figured it would be for the sake of my comfort. I never expected to have friends sleep over on occasion, but an extra pillow and blanket really came in handy.
7. Find a quiet space in the library before midterms and finals
My library has individual "cages" on the bottom floor, and they really came in handy when it was time to study for tests. Although it'll always be crowded, if you can find a nice spot with an outlet you'll be good.
8. Pack more socks than you think you'll need
As someone who never walks around the halls barefoot, socks really come in handy, and they're way more comfortable than shoes.
9. Know your meal plan
When I picked my meal plan, I opted for the easiest one there was, 19 meals/week. It gives me Every college has different meal plans though, so when it comes time to pick or change it, think about how often you eat. Don't just get a meal plan because it's the one everyone else is using- know your own eating habits and go from there.
10. Get to know the town
All college towns are different, and there isn't tons to do in White Plains, but it can be fun if you know where to go. With a free bus (The Loop) that goes to and from White Plains daily, weekends are the perfect time to go exploring with your friends. With a Target, a Walmart, a mall, and a movie theater, you can really end up having a great time.
11. Manage your friendships
Even large High Schools are smaller than most small colleges, and all the people you'll meet can be overwhelming. You'll find your friend group, whether they be in your major, live on your floor, or just be at the same table while you're eating. Just like in High School, the people you meet in August might not be the people you're friends with in December, but once you find the group that sticks, I think they'll be your friends for life. In making and managing friends though, hang out with people who will support your goals, whether they be acting on Broadway or becoming a doctor.
12. Call home every once in a while
It hopefully won't take long before your college starts to feel like home, and by the time it's Thanksgiving break you'll be itching to go back. What you shouldn't forget is that to your parents, their home will always be your home, regardless of how much you love college. Even if you're the youngest sibling and your parents are used to kids leaving, giving them a call, even if just once a week, will really mean a lot.
My first year at college was definitely one of if not the best year of my life, and there are so many things you'll learn along the way that I can't even begin to describe in this article. So with that, I wish you good luck!
