Over the summer, I really had no idea what was headed my way. What was I getting myself into?
College.
Freshman year.
New people, new place, new experiences—I had to admit, I was anxious. I was definitely more excited than nervous, but I really did not know if I would be able to handle the life changes I was going to face.
It’s been quite an interesting month here for me, already. Little did I know it was only going to take me three weeks to figure out my classes, read the personality of my professors, and learn the names and some brief backgrounds of other students my age, who were going through the exact same transition I was.
I cannot speak as an expert in knowing everything college related. There are people on this campus who have been here since 2011, and it's 2015. A lot has changed since then. All I can say is that as far as I know, being here for a month has taught me some things already.
The few things I have learned since the beginning of September have already set the tone of how I believe this year is going to roll out for me. Not only have I already learned a lot of academic material, but socially, I have been testing the waters with the people I have met.
One of the most important lessons I have learned is that not everyone you become friends with right away is going to stick by your side. The first person you meet on campus may not always be your best friend, and that's OK. There are so many chances and opportunities you are going to face in the future, and you should never say “no” to new people trying to get to know you. Who is to say this person won’t have some type of significant impact on your life?
Another thing I have learned is that academics come first. They need to come first. Of course, having a healthy social life is an important aspect of the full college experience, but studying and going to class are essential for staying on track. I will admit, I have skipped a day of classes because I was sick, and no, it wasn't easy. Catching up on missed material is only going to add to the massive, demanding course work we all have.
Studying in college is more important than studying in high school. In high school, I was able to pass a test just by reviewing my notes a few periods before the class I had an exam in. Now, I have to sit down for a few hours just to study for one class. It is a lot of work, but you have to remember that the hard work you put into your studying will only benefit you in the long run!
One last lesson I have learned this month is that you really only have yourself here. It can be hard when you face emotional episodes and feel alone. You may feel like packing up, calling it quits and wanting to go home. However, you are here in college, not to only study and socialize, but to also grow as a person. Becoming independent is going to help you in life. You will be able to find yourself, and college is only a stepping-stone to help you through your journey.
