It doesn’t seem real, but my first year of college has finally come to an end. As I pack up my small dorm room, I think back on this past year and what it has consisted of. Sometimes, I feel like I’m the same person I’ve always been. However, when I put things into perspective, I realized how much I’ve learned and changed since I walked onto campus as a freshman in August.
1. It’s not that scary. Well, not really.
As excited as I was to start college, the thought of going to a new place where I didn’t know a single person was absolutely terrifying. However, after the first few days, things start to feel normal, and you start getting to know people. They may not be your best friend, but it’s a start. Classes aren’t as bad as you imagined. Most professors are also approachable and want to see you do well. I promise that you aren't the only one who is afraid you won't make friends or that you will fail a class. Trust me, we're all in this together.
2. Studying is important.
Going into freshmen year, I had no study habits. I kind of got through high school with just reviewing for tests. I quickly learned college does not work that way at all. I’m still learning which study habits work best for me, but what is important is that you actually study any material given to you.
3. Procrastination is never a good idea.
I know I’m preaching to the choir, but procrastination is awful for real. Sometimes I find myself drowning in multiple assignments that are due in a few days. Of course there will be times other things are put before (not encouraging it, but it happens), but it is important to find ways to manage homework and studying without overwhelming yourself.
4. You won’t be friends with everyone.
During orientation, you will meet tons of different people. You’ll find people that are in your major and who are planning on joining the same clubs as you, and you’ll probably start talking. Sometimes, people don’t always stick around. You think that you will be great friends after meeting for the first time, but then a few months have gone by. You realize that you aren’t friends and haven’t even spoken to each other since that one event. Sometimes people just become distant and that’s OK. Friends come and go, but the ones worth keeping will stay by your side from the very beginning.
5. Get involved on campus!
Joining clubs, sports teams, or even just attending different events on campus is a great way to meet new people. Don’t overwhelm yourself by joining too many things, but it's great to have something to do that you enjoy. I have made so many friends this past year through campus involvement that otherwise I may have never met.
6. It’s OK to make midnight Taco Bell runs.
The freshman 15 is real, but it is important to stay on top of your health. There will be many long nights of studying for an exam or starting a paper that is due the next morning. Late night food runs or even a snack can be a great way to destress while working. It might just be what gets you that A.
7. You’ll learn how to be independent.
This is probably the most obvious, but college is a chance to find yourself. For the first time, you’re thrown out into a world where you don’t get to see your mom every day, and you have more responsibility than ever before. You aren't going to have someone telling you to clean your room or do your work, and it is up to you to decide when those things should be done. With independence comes freedom and a chance to try new things and express yourself how you want. Balancing school, friends, work, sports, clubs and everything else can be difficult, but it’s 100 percent worth it in the end.
Cheers to freshman year for everything I've learned so far; I can't wait to see what's coming next year.
