So you've chosen the best university in the South, what next? You're probably attending orientation and have chosen your roommate. Hopefully you're enjoying your summer full of high school friends and summer vacations, but there are a few specific things to know before before moving to Oxford and officially become an Ole Miss Rebel.
1. Bring costumes.
No one ever told me this and I really wish they would have. Bring every costume you own, like literally every single one. Your freshman year you will have multiple themed parties: swaps, Halloween, themed frat parties, and much more. If you don't use them all, don't worry, your friends will and will be so thankful you brought them.
2. Freshman 15 is real.
I know you have heard it a million times before, but it's the truth. Especially in Oxford. You will have unlimited access to food at the C-store, Chick-fil-A, and especially the sorority house. If you're nervous about gaining weight due to the awesome food, make a healthy eating plan. Visit the Turner Center and take some of the fun classes (like Zumba or Kickboxing -- my fave). All of the sorority houses should have an awesome salad bar to choose from too.
3. RUSH -- but be open minded.
Although it is not for everyone, if you're interested in it definitely go through Greek Recruitment. It is a grueling week of school, but also one of the most memorable. This might be the first time you hear it (or the hundredth), but it definitely won't be the last-- keep an open mind before recruitment. Try your hardest to avoid the stereotypical "tier" system and make an effort to get to know the sororities on your own, not just by the opinions of those around you. No matter what, you will end up where you belong in the Greek system, and I promise you will LOVE it.
4. Purge your clothes before you come to college.
Congratulations you are now the resident of a 3 ft. by 5 ft. box to keep all of your belongings in, sleep in, and study in! Yes, I know that collared polo just looked hot AF on you in 8th grade, but sadly you just don't have the room for it. Don't bring all your clothes to college, just don't do it. I made that mistake and my parents drove half of them back down with them. Try to exchange your winter and summer clothes as the seasons change to save space in your closet.
5. But save your high school homecoming/prom dresses.
If you have some cute and simple prom and homecoming dresses, definitely bring them. There are more formal parties than you would think in college. And once again, if you don't wear them, don't worry, someone else will!
6. Realize the obligations of sororities.
Sororities have a lot of financial, academic, and time obligations that many girls are unaware of prior to rushing. Each house is required to show their financial commitments and GPA requirements during the first round of rush, aka Greek Day. Also try not to take a lab/class at six on Monday nights. Most sororities hold their chapter meetings at that time, and you can really miss a lot if you don't attend.
7. Don't take an 8 a.m.
No matter how "accustomed" you claim to be to waking up early for class, it is SO different in college. You're never going to go to sleep at a reasonable hour... ever. No one is going to be there to wake you up if your alarm doesn't go off. You're completely on your own, so if you can get out of it, definitely try.
8. Don't buy a huge meal plan if you intend on rushing.
No one told me this until it was too late, but it is such a good piece of advice. After rush, you're most likely going to be eating at the house frequently so having all of those extra meals is kind of worthless. Don't worry, you will always have a plus one as a freshman to satisfy those Chick-fil-A cravings.
9. Buy earplugs and an eye mask.
If you don't do this right away, you probably will have to eventually. Unless you are a dead person when you sleep, living in the same room with a person twenty-four-seven can get quite inconvenient. There is a good chance the lights will have to be on when you're sleeping, especially if you and your roommate have different schedules. An eye mask and earplugs do just the trick to block out the light and the sound of a blow dryer all in one.
10. If you plan on drinking, know your limit.
College does not mean you have to drink, but most people do. If you're inexperienced it is important to be safe while drinking. Always have someone with you you can truly trust and never try to "keep up with the guys" (more like girls). It can be so much fun, but it also can be very dangerous, so always be safe and learn your limit.
Part 2 coming next week. Hotty Toddy!
