If you are an incoming freshman in college, you probably know about the incessant fear and adrenaline that comes with starting again, most likely in a bigger environment and more challenging than you have ever experienced. I know, it sounds scary but don't worry, hopefully, these tips will help you view it from a different perspective.
1. Everyone Is In The Same Boat!
It is normal to feel like you are alone in this experience as if everyone already knew their way around campus and how to manage their social life with their classes. The truth is: most people don't! No matter whether they are freshmen or juniors, there will be people who are still in the same place as you.
It is easy to feel intimidated by the number of new people you will meet during these years, but don't be afraid of speaking to those around you. Try to make friends in each class, whether you become best friends in the future or simply acquaintances who help each other through the semester, it helps to meet new people. Just do it. At some point, everyone started from zero. Yes, you might have known a couple of friends from high school that are going to your same college, but truly, everyone ends up meeting new people.
Another big fear of mine was asking questions whether it was to professors or in class when I didn't understand something. At all times, you need to keep in mind that everyone is or was (at some point) in the same boat. If you have a question about an assignment, ask. If you aren't sure of how to get to the teacher's office hours, ask. If you don't understand something, ask. At the end of the day, what's the worst that could happen? You not having your question answered, and back to the beginning.
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2. Organizing Is Key!
During your first year of college, you will be overwhelmed by classes, school events, and your social life. You might want to do everything and end up having time for only half those things. I believe that keeping an agenda is the key to a good, healthy lifestyle when it comes to organizing your days. Whether you rather study at night or in the mornings, take that into consideration and leave that time of the day free for you to focus on school work.
Make plans with your friends and write them down in your agenda so you know when to do homework later. Also, if there is a school event such as a football game, make sure you keep that day free!
Most people are also scared about the eating habits during the first years in college. It is easy to end up in the drive-thru or eating out every day, why? Because you most likely won't feel like cooking after going out with your friends or after a long day of classes. So, my advice is to meal prep in advance.
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3. Get Involved!
I cannot emphasize this enough but at times we get overwhelmed by the amount of opportunities and activities that universities have to offer. Even then, do not be scared to get involved!
On the one hand, there will be plenty of football games, or traditional events that you won't want to miss. It is a great chance for you to socialize, have fun, and show some of your school spirit. On the other hand, there are plenty of clubs for you to try out. Clubs can be a way for you to meet more people with your same interests, network, and try out different areas of study that you wouldn't otherwise.
While it is important to make time to relax and have fun, you can also get more involved academically. I would recommend that you try to build a strong relationship with your professors and advisors. They will be able to guide you with your classes, help you with recommendation letters, and help you understand which path to follow.
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4. Find Classes That Interest You!
A lot of people are unsure of their major going into college and that's completely normal! Unlike high school, in college you have a wider variety of classes and the freedom to choose whatever interests you. Try out different classes that might be of interest to pursue as your major to help you decide. Even if you are sure of your major and you still want to try different areas of study based on pure interest, do it! I personally realized that taking random classes unrelated to my major (Creative Writing) such as astronomy and philosophy, truly helped me expand my knowledge and find plenty of other things I was interested in!
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