I graduated from high school in 2015, but I was not prepared for the realities of college. Honestly, it is difficult to prepare a high school graduate for college because it is a different world. High school teachers are more merciful than college professors and many students do not know how to adjust to the collegiate classroom. If you are a rising freshman in college, you shouldn't stress yourself out. If you read my fantastic list, you will be able to fly through your freshman year with ease!
1. Be aware of your surroundings.
I cannot stress enough how important it is to know your environment while in college. Do not attend a party if you do not know the exact location. I know this may seem like common sense, but during my freshman year at Claflin University, I've heard many stories about people who were stranded in unknown areas after a party. Also, it is never a great idea to party with strangers.
2. Never procrastinate on your assignments.
Do not wait until the last minute to complete an assignment because it will never be your best work. You should not strive for mediocrity in college so you should always put your best foot forward. If you start your work ahead of time, you will have a chance to check over your work and make sure it is perfect.
3. You cannot rush relationships.
While I was a freshman in college, I made the mistake of trying to rush friendships. Do not be so quick to call everybody your friend in college. College is the real world and people are so fickle with their feelings. If you want to have successful relationships in college, you need to give it some time. Remember, great relationships aren't built overnight.
4. You do not know everything.
Do not challenge your professor. If you do not agree with something, address the professor after class. Do not put on a show in front of the whole class. You want the professor as an ally, not an enemy.
5. You have to go to class.
This is common sense, but some people do not understand the dangers of missing class. What is the point of paying college tuition if you are going to stay in your dorm room all day? Remember, your classmates are not responsible for your notes, so do not expect them to bail you out every time. Also, you will fail the course if you do not to attend class regularly.
6. You have to study.
Yes, you have to study because college is not high school. I mean, you could skip studying, but you will come out with mediocre grades.
7. You have to balance work and play.
There is nothing wrong with having fun after you've worked hard. However, do not party if you have an exam the next morning. Your assignments are more important than a college party. Remember, college is too expensive to flunk out.
8. Fast food is evil.
The Freshman 15 is real and it is out to get you! Do not buy unnecessary food if you have a meal plan.
9. Rent books.
Do not purchase those expensive books from the bookstore. It will come back to haunt you! If you are allowed to rent a book, rent it because you probably will not use it after the semester is over. Buying books out the bookstore burns a hole in your pocket.
10. Stay true to who you are.
Many people lose themselves during their first year of college. You do not have to change for anyone. If you want to stay in your room and study, that is okay. You don't have to change yourself to fit in with the crowd. Honestly, people will respect you more if you remain genuine.
11. You have to believe in yourself.
You cannot be successful in college if you doubt yourself constantly. In the beginning of my freshman year, I wasn't sure I could survive college, but I learned how to believe in myself. Nobody can stop you if you are confident.
