Watching some of the younger generations graduate this weekend really put into perspective just how fast time goes by. Remembering this exciting and new part of my life, there are a few things I wish I knew before I went off on my own.
1. Your hometown is not the villain you make it out to be.
If you're like me, you were dying to get out of your hometown and move on to bigger and better things. You've thought of your dream location and it's halfway across the country. Now that three years have passed, my small town is refreshing to visit. I still have pride for that place I called home for over a decade.
2. Family is family...forever.
You may leave home but they will always be with you. Appreciate the technology you have and make a call to mom and dad. They'll enjoy hearing your voice.
3. The friends you once had may not stay.
I thought certain people would stay in my life forever at one point in time and realistically, that's not true. People grow and shift as time goes by and that's okay.
4. It's okay to not have it all figured out.
Deciding your field of study at the age of 18 is crazy! Don't let a piece of paper decide your future. Confining yourself to anything can be unhealthy. Explore your interests.
5. Buying new books is not a good idea.
I spent more money on books than dorm room essentials my freshman year. High school-provided books was something I took for granted. Rent or borrow books from friends. Wait it out and see if the book is required or just recommended.
6. Develop a study technique before your first round of exams.
Before college, I don't remember studying all too often. Except the morning of a test while sitting on the hallway floor with my friends. This turned out to be one of the hardest obstacles to conquer my freshman year. Engineering is not something I could get away with cramming the night before. Start early so that you're prepared.
7. Travel.
If I could change one thing about my college experience, it'd be to study abroad. Traveling opens minds and hearts to new ideas, cultures, and experiences.
8. Sleep is important.
Being sleep deprived in college is all too common. Staying up late watching Netflix with your friends is great but you're going to feel it tomorrow at 8:00 a.m. chemistry lecture.
9. Never let anyone tell you that you can't do something.
When I told people what I wanted to go to school for, I got some confused looks. Women in STEM fields are still rare and when you're sitting in a classroom of 20 students and you're the only girl, you'll feel it. Don't let comments or numbers scare you. Do this for you.
10. Live life for you.
A good friend of mine taught me that being unapologetically me was the best thing I could do for myself. He reminded me that life is too short to let others get to me for my interests. Our life advice talks at work will always be remembered. Thank you, Mitch.
11. Find your home away from home.
Junior year of college was such an exciting time for me because I finally got involved with organizations on campus. I joined the best thing that's happened to me at college, Alpha Phi Omega. Joining something bigger than yourself is a fulfilling and rewarding experience. Be you and the rest will fall into place.
