Before going to college, I was very nervous about what might happen with my friendships back home, how much homework I will have, if I will make the right group of friends, etc. I am not going to lie, it did take me a while to adjust to living on my own yet I can officially say I am getting the hang of it.
1. Learn How To Be Good At Time Management
One thing I struggled with during the first few weeks of college was learning how to balance my school work with my social life. Each course load is pretty intense and require hours of homework each week. On top of that, you need to balance out your social life so you can make sure you are still having fun while working toward getting a degree. By learning how to be good at time management, it becomes almost effortless to balance everything out.
2. Join Anything and Everything You Want To Do
When coming to college, I was overwhelmed by the number of opportunities handed to me. The clubs, Greek life, internships, and jobs, there are so many opportunities that you can take advantage of. One thing that I focused on was joining clubs that not only sparked my interest but also clubs that went along with my major. This helped me immensely because I can now start to build up my resume, starting as soon as freshman year.
3. It Is Okay To Feel Overwhelmed
If I tried, I don't think I could count the number of mental breakdowns I've had within just one semester. Whether it be friendships, schoolwork, relationships, it seemed never-ending at times. When running into an issue, all you can do is breathe and try to figure out a solution as quickly as possible. College is stressful in so many aspects and everyone is going through the same thing you are so it is completely okay to feel like it is too much at times. Just remember that whatever the situation may be, it won't last forever.
4. It's Time To Become An Adult
Get ready to clean your own bathroom, set your own alarms, do your own laundry, and make your own food. The world is in your hands now and you control everything. I cherish the times before college when I would wake up to breakfast made by my parents but now I am relying on dining hall food or whatever I can find in my fridge to keep my stomach from growling. This is something that I struggled with at first but now I love being able to do everything on my own. You will find yourself at times wearing the same clothes multiple days in a row because you are too lazy to do your laundry but after all, it's a learning experience.
5. Greek Life Is Amazing
Before coming into college, I was a little hesitant on what I wanted to join when I got here, especially Greek life. I can confidently say that I will never regret joining a sorority. Through all of the friendships I have made, the events, the social life, it is all amazing. Greek life definitely isn't for everyone but if you have an interest in joining, I say you do so.
6. Take Control Of Your Free Time
College is jam-packed with many things on your to-do list. Once you get the time to relax, do it. You do not want to be running yourself out by going out every night or going to every sporting event because trust me, this will start to take a toll on your body. Personally, I love being a busy bee but just being able to sit and relax every once in a while is the best feeling.
7. Deadlines Are Important
In high school, many of us could get away with late assignments due to many excuses but once college hits, it is due when it is due. Getting your assignments in on time could make it or break it for your grade. If you forget to turn in an assignment, chances are you will get a zero and that could damage your grade more than you could imagine. Focus on when things are due and get rid of the habit of procrastinating because it will only help you in the long run.
8. Reach Out To Your Professors
Your professors are there to help you. If you have a question, email them or schedule an appointment during their office hours if you are struggling in a course. Most professors will be happy to help and only want you to succeed. It may be intimidating at first to ask for help but you are here for an education and they know that.
9. Making Friends Is Easy
When you first come to college, everyone is trying to make new friends. Trust me, everyone is in the same boat. Being a social person, this was fairly easy because I love getting to know others. If you struggle with this, join a club, walk around campus, talk to your classmates, or reach out to people in your dorm. Almost everyone is super friendly and you will truly see that it is easy to make friends.
10. Have Fun
College shouldn't be all work and no play. After all, you are here for 4 years and you are in a new environment, so take advantage of that. Have fun but not too much fun because you still want your focus to be school. College goes by a lot faster than you think it does so why not take advantage of all of the good times you are having.
Overall, college is amazing. Having the freedom to do your own thing is by far one of my favorite things. There is so much more advice I could give to students starting their first year in college but for now, the 10 things listed are what I wish I would've known before coming to college.
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