Freshman year: Some of the most fun, yet most stressful memories of my life thus far. Even though I entered college thinking I knew everything about what it means to be an adult, my first year has definitely proven me wrong and taught me a few lessons. For your viewing pleasure, I've enlisted in the help of Cady, Regina and the rest of the Mean Girls to show you what I mean:
1. Know what's in your cup.
Sketchy frats are not just a myth; they are very real. So don't try to look cool by drinking whatever they hand you, because chances are, the effects of the jungle juice will make you look pretty uncool.
2. Watch your diet.
I always thought the Freshman 15 was one of those ideas people associated with college, but didn't actually exist. I'm here to tell you that this is also very real. Be conscious of what you're eating.
3. College professors are not like high school teachers.
College professors are not going to care whether or not you go to class or do your work. It may seem harsh at first, but you are not going to be babied. Make sure you keep up so that you don't feel like your teachers are out to get you.
4. Halloween doesn't change.
The professors may be different, but Halloween is still the same. It is "the one day a year when a girl can dress up like a total slut and no other girls can say anything else about it."
5. You will have mental breakdowns.
If the college stress is getting to you, it will most likely show. If you notice yourself getting very emotional, it is probably a result of the 10 papers you have to write overnight.
6. The gym is free.
These four years will be the only time in your life that you'll have access to a free gym. So if you find yourself wondering what to do next after gaining some weight because of campus food, take advantage of it.
7. Be open to meeting new people.
If you meet great friends right off the bat, good for you! But be open to meeting even more people. Leave the cliques in high school.
8. Treat yourself!
Because college can be so stressful, make sure to treat yourself once in a while. Going out every day is not the best idea, but having fun on the weekends is a good way to relieve stress.
9. Don't let boys distract you.
Chances are, most of the guys you meet early on in college are looking for a good time. Don't spend all of your time on a boy that doesn't want to be tied down. This is the time to focus on yourself.
10. Appreciate your parents.
Even though college seems like the perfect opportunity to get away from your parents, you're soon going to realize that you still need them. Sometimes we all get overwhelmed and just need to call our moms. Don't be embarrassed, it happens to all of us.
11. Take advantage of the summer!
When you finally make it to the end of your first year, you'll probably be exhausted. Use summer break to refuel and prepare yourself to do it all again next year.
