It seems like it was just yesterday, I was opening college acceptance letters and stashing them in the cardboard box labeled “My Future”. As a rising junior, it’s quite hard for me to grasp that I’m almost halfway finished with my undergraduate years. Within the past two years of college, I have had to overcome obstacles that have molded me into the man I am today. As I sit here and reflect on the many ups and downs of these two years, I wish I could go back to freshman year to undo many of the mistakes I made along the way. Freshmen year of college comes along with intensive academic coursework, straining social pressures, and unprecedented adulthood freedoms. Although I received a great amount of advice about the unforgiving college setting, I have realized that there were some lessons I had to learn on my own. If I could write a letter to my “Freshman Self” it would go a little something like this:
Dear Freshman Self,
Keep God first in all that you do. If pleasing God is your top priority, everything else will surely fall into place. Be unapologetic about your faith. Although it may not seem like it, there are other freshmen who have a passion to serve God as much as you do. Find them, and connect with them. You’ll need accountability partners when things get tough. If you ever feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders, read Jeremiah 29:11. God will forever have his hand on you, so trust him.
Don’t forget the most important aspect of college: academic excellence. Your GPA will determine your acceptance into student organizations, summer internship programs, and graduate schools. Student organizations and clubs come second to academics. Don’t forget to prioritize. If you find a course challenging, find a tutor and/or go to office hours. Professors don’t give handouts in college. STUDY! STUDY! STUDY!
Stay in good graces with your family. They’re your support system. Call them, and keep them updated on your college experiences. But, if you aren’t performing well academically, do your best to avoid that awkward conversation.
Go eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I know the meals in the cafeteria are not appetizing at times, but you already paid for them. With that being said, don’t eat out so much because you’ll need that money for something else. Oh, your grandma was right about the importance of vegetables. Eat them, bud. You’ll need that energy.
The freshman roommate situation takes time getting use to. Learn how to share your space. Understand that you need personal space and your roommate needs his space. Respect each other wishes. Lastly, your roommate will be one of the people on campus who know you the best. Create a steady line of communication in case you need to vent about a bad day. You’ll definitely grow from this aspect of the college experience. Just remember, communication is KEY.
Take time out to socialize. Don’t remain cooped up in you room watching Netflix and Hulu. You’re surrounded by the potential groomsmen of your wedding. So get out there, and make friends. Just don’t succumb to the social pressures of the AUC. It can be overwhelming. I know. Just do you, bro.
Stay true to yourself. Trust, everyone else is looking for their purpose in life just like you. Take risks, but don’t lose yourself along the way.
You don’t know everything. Learn to listen.
Lastly, if you read this quote to yourself every day, you’ll be able to conquer any obstacle in your path:
“Your life is now, seize it and make it amazing. Find your voice. Discover your passion and pursue it. Be honest, generous, and kind. Surround yourself with love, laughter, and truth. Let your heart be your guide. Make a difference. Be brave, and wild at heart. Take chances, and ask questions. Be fearless, and make a difference. This your time.”
Hope this helps,
A Wiser You
