If I had a dollar for every time someone has told me that "time flies" while you're in college, I'd be rich. If I had a dollar for every time I believed that statement, I'd be penniless. As much as you try to deny it, time really does fly while you are away at school. I can't believe that my first semester of college is practically finished. Even though it has only been about three months, I know that I am not the same person before coming to school. I've learned so much about myself, my strengths, my weaknesses, and my talents. There are also so many skills and traits that I have picked up from living in the city, the old suburban-me would be proud. Here is a quick list of what I have learned after surviving my first semester of college!
1. Time management? Under control.
After countless nights of cramming before a test or submitting that paper right before 11:59 PM, I realized that something needed to change. In college, there is this beautiful thing called a syllabus, which everyone receives on the first day. There, it lists every single assignment, quiz, test and when it's due. If you want to survive your first semester, I suggest using it! I learned to manage my time effectively by starting assignments way in advance and handing things in before the due date. This way, you have plenty of time for leisure… and sleep!
2. Queen of the Maps
This may only apply if you attend a city-school, however, it is still an important skill to have. In college, I have become so much more map-savvy. From getting around on campus to trying to find my way around the city, knowing how to use a map can save your life, literally. Using a map will eventually help you become more aware of your surroundings, and can make you a resource to help others. Before coming to college, I knew nothing about the surrounding area. Take advantage of your smartphone! Now, I know my way around so much better.
3. Being Food-Savvy
I'm not here to discuss the freshman 15 (Yes, it is a real thing if you let it become a real thing), but instead about being food-savvy. What I mean is, my first semester taught me that beggars can't be choosers. Dining halls are going to become your best friend, and whatever is there that's it. Sometimes you might opt for having breakfast for dinner, and that's okay. Or having Chick-Fil-A twice in one week, totally acceptable.
4. Money Management
I'm sure that if you ask any college student to describe themselves, one word that is certain to come up is broke. Yes, college is expensive, it seems as if the fees never stop. You have to pay for tuition, food, housing, and so many other expenses. After this semester, I can definitely say I am smarter with how I spend my money. In high school, I can admit that I made some frivolous purchases. Now, I still allow myself to spend money on things I want, but I am much more careful. What helped me is giving yourself a monthly budget, that way you don't just blow through all of your money in the first month of college. It's not easy, but you can do it!
College is unlike high school in many ways. There is a lot more freedom, which leads to more responsibility. As my first semester is coming to an end, I've realized how much I've changed since I graduated in June. I am wiser, more responsible, and aware. The first semester of college is an amazing experience, and you learn a lot about yourself. For anyone who is entering college, hopefully, this can show you what to expect.
