The eight life lessons "Harry Potter" taught us that have helped to prepare us for college:
1. First impressions really do matter.
At King’s Cross, Harry meets Ron and his family, and minutes later he has his first encounter with Hermione. Both of Harry’s best friends made a memorable impression that led them to a lifelong friendship. On the contrary, when Harry first meets Draco in "The Sorcerers Stone," he immediately knows that he is up to no good. Throughout college, you will meet an abundance of people, all of whom will leave impressions on you. It is smart to know your Draco’s from your Ron’s.
2. People may surprise you.
Neville Longbottom may seem like a klutz in the beginning, however he surprises us and grows up to be one of the bravest characters of the series. Although it is important to use your judgment at school to avoid the muggle Malfoy’s of the world, it is also important to not ignore the Neville’s -- the geeky boy on your freshman floor may grow up to be a very handsome senior.
3. It is important to try new things.
Before I left home to enter my freshmen year, almost every adult told me to “join clubs!” I know that this is a cliché, but it’s true. Try something new, play an intramural sport, go out for Greek life, join Dumbledore's Army etc. Many characters from the Harry Potter series break out of their shell at some point throughout their Hogwarts career. A new hobby, sport, club, etc., can unexpectedly change a person’s life.
OK, so maybe we don’t have professors that are on “you-know-who’s” side. But when we are sitting through long, boring lectures, we feel like our professors are pure evil. Some professors will just be old-fashioned and teach directly from the book. Take advantage of Rate My Professor to see which professors are dull, but just know that everybody, at some point or another, will end up with a professor that they are not crazy about. Drink lots of coffee, read the book, and try your hardest to pay attention in class.
5. While others may be too "out of the box."
Whether it’s over-sharing their
opinion or assigning eccentric projects, some professors really will be crazy.
Some of these professors may touch your heart and change your outlook. On the contrary, some of these professors' craziness might rub you the wrong way, and that is OK!
6. Your school can become a second home.
It took me a really, really long time to feel comfortable at college. However, many students adjust quickly and their school becomes their home in no time. At the end of summer, many students are actually anxious to get back. For those who felt trapped at home during high school, college can offer you freedom and a whole new world! Hopefully nobody has to have as bad of a home life as Harry (or Tom Riddle), but if you do, remember that September is right around the corner!
Many students experience homesickness. Sometimes factors like finals and weather can impact a student’s happiness. If you’re feeling sad or homesick, it is important to reach out! Remember, even Harry went through a lonely time during his fifth year. Just because you are having a bad day, week, or even month, does not mean that you do not love your school.
8. The significance of love and friendship.
Throughout the "Harry Potter" series, we are taught the importance of love and friendship. Lilly Potter’s love protected Harry’s life and Harry would not have been able to achieve all he did if he did not have strong friendships and people who supported him. Although these are extremes, it is important to realize that any small task can become a great adventure if friends are included. Take advantage of living with your best friends at college, because the daily dining hall trips and weekend movie nights will become some of your most memorable moments.
