It is often said that we don't want to live life having regrets or move forward after college or high school thinking we missed out, especially since you can't go back. I have only a few weeks left of my senior year of college, and I can't help but take a minute to write about things I have enjoyed in order for younger people to not miss out.
1. Don't skip out on big weekends.
There are always a few weekends that are major for your school, like Spring Weekend and Oktoberfest for Longwood students. Those special weekends are opportunities to see your school in a different light, hang out with friends (and even make new ones), and enjoy things like parties, bands, and free food. If you find yourself weighing the options of leaving for the weekend or staying to have fun, give it a chance and stay!
2. Get involved.
It's annoying, right? The idea of someone older than you, especially parents, telling you to get involved can pluck your nerves. I chose to get involved with Odyssey while many of my friends found their homes through on and off-campus sororities and fraternities. While I never affiliated, I have been fortunate enough to make a lot of friends over the last few years through those close to me and their new found homes.
3. Work hard.
Okay, this is another thing that we have all heard our entire lives, but trust me, you will look back (if you care) and think "wow I should've applied myself more." I slacked off in high school because I decided I wanted to do what I wanted and not what people told me.
Apply yourself, turn in your work on time, and put your best foot forward in every little thing you take on. I know you're probably thinking "Cs get degrees" and "no one looks at your GPA," but in all actuality, Cs don't always get you through, and high GPAs stand out for internships and jobs. Trust me when I tell you it will be rewarding in the big grand scheme of things.
4. Party, but don't get stupid.
I'm the first one to encourage beers, beer pong, Jell-O shots, and other things that I won't name here. Don't be afraid to have a good time while you're at college, but don't be that girl (or guy) that returns to their dorm at 6 am with sharpie all over your arms, someone else's clothes on, and no recollection of where you've been. It's a lot of fun to have a great time with friends, but it's not fun when people get arrested or need medical attention because of a night out. More importantly for girls, don't wander around alone when you're under the influence, don't ditch your friends, and always have an escape plan in case something goes wrong.
5. Lastly, have a good time!
Go out, have fun with your friends, and learn who you are. College is your chance to grow into yourself, leave home, learn about life, and make friends that you will have for the rest of your life. Don't spend every weekend going home (unless you have a sick family member then please spend time with them), take opportunities to go to other colleges and visit friends, and do things with your friends like a trip to the beach or a hike. Be a student first, and if need be an employee second, but have a good time!
My old soul must be coming through as the one month countdown officially begins. But, I encourage everyone to have fun, make new friends, and do things that are out of your comfort zone. College is your chance to really find yourself, so don't miss out!
