You survived your very first week of college. If this is your first year, like me, then surviving the first week is kind of a big deal. You are getting used to the campus, college life, living on your own and so much more. No matter who you are or where you come from, everyone's first week has some similarities. Here are 9 memes that perfectly describe the first week of school.
1. Getting lost is normal.
You probably got lost every now and then. Wondering where are your classes, how do get there and why did you even bother looking for your classes prior to the start of school when you are still lost?
2. Do not let the stairs frighten you.
Why have leg day at the gym when you have to climb so many stairs to reach your destination? I have 10 minutes to get from Harris Hall to Hibbs Hall and about 4 flights of stairs to face once I reach Hibbs Hall. Sometimes I wonder if I am the only one who is completely out of breath once I reach my classroom at Hibbs Hall. But hey, maybe I will be super fit before the semester is over.
3. It's super causal to Jay Walk.
Jay-Walking is a serious thing downtown. Even when the walk sign is not present, some people just walk in the street. Naturally, what do you do, follow the large crowd in hopes of a car not coming that way.
5. Walking is the most common mode of transportation.
A lot of people walk to reach their destinations. Being a first year, it is not very practical to have a car on campus so there is a lot of walking involved. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and not shoes that will hurt the minute you step out of your dorm room. I’ve made that mistake a couple of times this week.
4. Bikes are something to consider.
Riding a bicycle is a very prominent mode of transportation, especially downtown. You may finding yourself often debating on whether you should get a bike or not and if you will reach your destination in half of the time.
5. Family is forever and irreplaceable.
I am such a home-body to begin with. I miss home and my family when I go to a sleepover for the night. Literally, nothing is like home. I think not being around my family 24/7 was probably the biggest adjustment for me. I would often find myself face-timing, calling, texting and occasionally making short visits back to my house (yay for living in Richmond and going to college nearby). No one will ever replace your family and especially if you are a "Mama's Girl"--you will forever hold that title.
6. FOOD?!
Finding good restaurants is a must. Luckily, downtown has so many places to eat. The choices are endless. Also, it is a must to find out which restaurants take swipes and when. Getting more for your money is always a plus.
7. Nothing better than waking up to 1AM fire drills.
Virginia Commonwealth University is a very urban campus. Getting adjusted to the “city life” can be a challenging thing to overcome if you are used to it being quiet. However, the city is beautiful and it is getting easier to get accustomed to cars honking constantly on the road. Also, random fire drills really does happen. If you have had an experience like me, then a fire drill practically happens every night at 1AM and you have a 9AM class that day. But it is for your safety and well-being.
8. "Freshman Starter Park"
Nobody wants to look like that "typical freshman." But hey, embrace it. It is your first year so go out there and enjoy it. Do not be afraid to look like a freshman because people will accept you for you.
9. The opportunity to meet some new people!
Meeting new people can always be a very overwhelming and scary experience. I cannot stress enough how important it is to find a least one or two people to connect with. Luckily for me, my best friend was attending the same university as me. I have met some pretty great people here at VCU. So go out there and introduce yourself!
Surviving the very first week of school is something to be proud of. While I am sure you were presented with some challenges, there will be more throughout the year and the course of your life. This is what life is all about. It is how you overcome those challenges that defines your character and way of living. Have a great first year and make it count!
