Freshman year of high school didn’t mentally prepare us for our freshman year of college. As seniors, we were excited by the idea of new freedom devoid of parental dictatorship. Little did we know how lucky we were. College seniors, though they are definitely more mature, stare in remembrance of their freshman glory days as they watch clumsy and wide-eyed freshman stumble through campus like a lost child. But, I mean, we are children. The number 18 means adulthood and legality, yet we aren't necessarily prepared for the the amount of responsibilities coming our way.
There are, however, seven reasons why freshman year is better than any other:
1. We're allowed to make mistakes.
Not only is it assumed, but it is expected. The goal of freshman year should be to learn from the good, the bad, and of course, the ugly.
2. We don't need to know our majors.
We've got all the time in the world, or at least just all year to make that tough decision. The choice is easier for some than others, but sometimes the options are painfully overwhelming. It's a decision that determines your career for the rest of eternity. But hey, you don't need to seriously worry about that until sophomore year.
3. We can go 'fratting' without shame.
The introduction to 'frat life' can corrupt a human being in their first year at college. Some say that the desire to go out lessens as they get older, yet some never outgrow cramped spaces of sweaty, drunk, nearly naked bodies.
4. We're not completely broke yet.
We're not yet out of money from our graduation parties in the summer so there is no shame in shopping somewhere other than the dollar store every once in a while.
5. We have a new-found freedom.
Gone are the days of curfew and parental questioning about where you were last night. It's all so new. You can walk down to the Ave and get a churro at 4 a.m. if you so choose. No one is stopping you. You don't have to go to class if you don't want. It's both a blessing and a curse, but for the time being, it is most definitely a blessing.
6. We get new friends.
Making a new friend in class or at a party is almost as exciting as getting above average on a test. Everywhere you look there are new people that you've never seen before. It's those "late night, waiting in line for a stall in the bathroom deep talks" that can lead to life-long friendships.
7. We have endless time.
We don't need to worry about our majors. Classes are mostly introductory courses with few homework assignments. Not many of us have full-time work days or internships. We have time to lounge around and hangout with friends, watch Netflix all day, and drink like nobody's business.
Freshman year of college only happens once in a lifetime. It is important to enjoy each and every moment because the sophomore slump is right around the corner.
