The last week of August is always one of the most stressful of the year for anyone between the ages of 18 and 22. Everyone knows this time of the year entails frantic back to school shopping, packing, organizing, and all around excitement. This holds to be especially true when it is one's first time entering into the college world. As I enter my senior year of college, I realize there are certain things I wish I had been aware of three years ago. Though you can't always be fully prepared when leaving home for the first time, there are still a few things I wish I had known entering into my freshman year of college.
1. Don't buy all your books before getting to school. Books are expensive but necessary, that's a given. However based off of my own personal experiences and the experiences of many of my peers, there will be many times when the professor ends up not using the book listed on their syllabus. My advice is to at least wait until after the first day of class to make your final purchases and maybe double check with the professor to clarify if you will actually need every single one of the required reading materials. This could potentially save you a hundred dollars or so in the long run.
2. Sign up for anything that looks interesting to you. I know everyone makes fun of the stereotypical overeager freshmen, however trust me if you see an on-campus group or organization that peaks your curiosity, join. The best way to meet people you'll mesh well with is to do so in an environment where you all have a shared interest. It is overwhelming entering into a place with thousands of people your age and trying to find friends. If I have learned anything it is that the best friends you make in college are the ones who share your passions. In the beginning you may feel skeptical about joining the environmental awareness club or something of that sort, but if you are on board with what the club stands for, chances are you will meet a lot of great people who hold the same sentiments as you.
3. Find a healthy balance between school work and being social. This is probably the most important piece of advice I can emphasize. I wholeheartedly encourage going out and making an active effort to meet new people and begin great friendships. But at the same time make sure you work out a routine that works for you regarding your school work. It is a completely different experience going from high school level coursework to college level work and it is imperative to keep up with the required readings, practice quizzes, etc. Make sure you communicate with your professors too and not just your peers! College professors are one of the most insightful groups of people out there and I say use their office hours to your advantage. The first semester of freshmen year is definitely one of the hardest ones you will go through during your college career. When it comes down to making a decision between going out with a group of friends or completing the 15 page research paper you have due in eight hours, make sure you prioritize school work over anything else.
Obviously everyone experiences college in a different way, but remember that it's always important to do what's best for you! You are the one who worked hard enough to be here, so enjoy it!
