1. Work hard, play hard.
It is all about balance! Study A LOT. But leave time to grab brunch with your classmate or take a night out with your roomies. We are obviously here to learn, but college offers much more than listening to lectures and reading your 200 dollar textbook.
2. It’s okay to be undecided on a major or career.
Let's face it- they want us to decide exactly what we want to do with the rest of our lives at the same age that we fight over who has to call and order the pizza. I began my first year as an undecided major and had the opportunity to explore several different fields of study. I feel more confident in my choice of major and I am not behind at all. To my fellow indecisive people who take 20 minutes to decide what ice cream flavor they want- don’t stress! I promise, you have time to figure everything out.
3. Be outgoing and make friends in the first couple weeks.
If you were like me, you have had the same friends since 1st grade, and you don't even remember how you tricked them into hanging out with you. Well, take a deep breath. Everyone is in the same boat as you! All of the incoming first years are nervous about being at a place where they do not know anyone, so be friendly and make connections while everyone is desperate for them! My favorite tip is to keep your dorm room door open so that you can mingle with the people on your floor, they may just become your best friends. Remember- no one has their high school reputation anymore.
4. Study outside or at the library - don't become glued to your dorm room.
Trust me, you will get sick of your dorm eventually. Especially in the winter when the crispy cold air keeps you from ever leaving it. Get some fresh air and vitamin D while studying, or grab a coffee and find a spot at the library. It is important to separate your relaxation area from your study area!
5. Take advantage of ALL of the opportunities.
Join a student organization! There are so many to choose from- from Chipotle burrito club to board games club and everything in between. Also, make sure to take time to explore your city or college town. It's important to get off campus so you don't get stuck in a routine (plus there is much better food out there).
6. Don’t be overwhelmed by large lecture halls.
If you came from a small high school like I did, it may seem a bit overwhelming when you walk into a lecture with 599 of your closest friends. But it is not as bad of an adjustment as you may think- just make sure to stay awake in class. My best advice is at the end of your classes, go introduce yourself to your professor! They love to talk with students, that is why they chose the job. Plus, it will give you a leg up on the other students if your professors know you.
7. Make your planner your new best friend.
Okay. We all got those free agendas in high school that we rarely ever opened unless we wanted to double check the student dress code. However, in college, your planner will be your life savor. Write out your entire syllabus in your planner at the beginning of the semester. It is so easy to forget about assignments when you are juggling five classes and do not have a teacher or parent reminding you of exams and essays. Invest in a planner and you will thank me later!
8. Drink a lot of water. and Coffee.
You are in a confined area with 60,000 other college students. You will get sick! However, water will help keep you physically and mentally healthy! If the water fountains in your dorm are sketchy, by a filter pitcher from Amazon or Target. Also, never forget that a cup of coffee a day keeps the F's away.
9. Buy a plant or a fish for your dorm room.
You will be spending a lot of your time in your room, and most dorms can be kinda small and gloomy. So Pinterest the crap out of your space! I found that getting a little bamboo plant or fish brings a bit of life to the room. (RIP Berry the Betta.)
10. Your hometown squad will still be squad.
I was so worried that when my friends and I all left for our different colleges that my group would grow apart. But I was so wrong! College makes winter and summer breaks at home with your friends even better. Trust me, you will be texting your group message on the daily complaining about your roomie, asking for Instagram caption help, or telling them about the cute boy you're sitting by in your psych class.
