I just finished up my freshman year of college, and, in just one short year, I learned so much. These are the most important to make note of when starting your first year of college.
1. Set aside time for yourself.
I was constantly so stressed out about an upcoming research paper or an exam that I would spend hours and hours in the library. Yes, you are there to get an education, but don’t work yourself too hard. Set aside time for yourself each week whether you just lay in bed listening to music for an hour or go on a bike ride. Your body and mind will thank you.
2. You will not always get the grade you want.
It happens. Life goes on. Everybody gets a bad grade on a paper or exam, so don’t let it consume your mind, instead go to the professor during office hours and ask for help. They are willing to help you in any way they can. You will learn from the mistakes you made and can correct them in time for the next research paper or test. Remember, "It's going to be okay."
3. You will miss home.
Like every other incoming college student, I was beyond ready to get out of my parents’ house and be hours away living in a dorm on campus. I told myself that I wasn’t going to miss home at all. Boy was I wrong. After that first full week on my own, I realized just how much I missed my mom’s cooking and all of my dad’s corny jokes. So, every Sunday I would make a phone call home and talk to my parents about events that happened that past week, what I expected from the upcoming week and everything in between.
4. Get involved!
There are hundreds of organizations available on campus. Get involved! You will learn all about the different organizations ranging from poetry to Quidditch. Go to a couple of meetings to find out what they are all about and make some new friends as well. College is not just about getting an education (it is the major thing though, don't forget), it is also about new experiences and discovering who you truly are. Take advantage of this.
5. Time goes by fast.
This is the major thing to keep in mind, because it really does. In the blink of an eye you've finished up your first semester, and you are going home for winter break. Then, in another blink of an eye, you are packing up your room and moving back home for the summer. Do not dwell on things in the past because they do not matter anymore, focus on the present and future because you don’t have the time to worry about what cannot be changed.
Enjoy your experiences, keep up with your work and you’ll have nothing to worry about.
