Dear College Freshmen,

Congratulations, you have made it through the first three months of college! I hope it was exciting, challenging, and an enjoyable experience. But, for those of you have been struggling, do not worry, I promise that you are not alone.

Personally, I believe college is a huge adjustment that is underestimated. We live at home with our families for eighteen years, and then all of the sudden, our parents drop us off at school and say goodbye. We have to quickly adapt to a new environment, make new friends, and manage a whole new workload.

I remember that before I left for school freshman year, I was an emotional wreck. I could not stop crying, but I made sure that no one knew how upset I was. I was sad about leaving my friends and family; I was scared to start a new chapter in my life. Of course, these were all normal things to be upset about, but I thought I was the only person in the world who had ever felt this way. Little did I know I was very wrong.

Looking back now, I feel a lot wiser, but at the same time, I also feel naive. When Thanksgiving break rolled around last year, I was nervous to go home and reunite with my high school friends. I was so sure that everyone was loving their college experiences and I was embarrassed that I was hating mine. When people posted pictures on social media, it looked as if they were having a great time. Little did I know that behind some of those smiles, some of my friends at home and at school were also having a hard time adjusting.

When I started college I was swarmed with advice, but then as the years went on, it stopped. I did not realize I was going to have a really hard time adjusting to this new way of life. I had always been the kid who did not mind being away from home. When I was little, I loved having sleepovers with my cousins and friends. In high school, I jumped at any chance to hang out with my friends. That is why, when the time came to move into school, I started freaking out on the inside. I did not understand why I was nervous; after all, I was always the girl who loved being social and did not mind change.

So, for you college freshmen who are struggling, I want to reiterate advice that you received in the beginning of the year. Remember that although it may not be okay right now, it will be soon.

1. Go to the gym.

Going to the gym was quite the challenge for me. There were days when I “just didn’t feel like it” and days when “I was too busy.” That is no excuse. If you want to feel good about yourself, exercise and eating well are crucial. Fitness is important for your mind, body, and soul. It is a great stress reliever. Even if you just go to walk on the treadmill for ten minutes, at least you are doing something. In college, you are constantly surrounded by your peers, so it is very important to take time for yourself, and exercising is a great way to do that.

2. Ask for help if you need it.

During freshman year, I was kind of scared of everyone and everything. It was intimidating being a little fish in a big pond. I was nervous to ask my professors, classmates, and friends for help. This was easily one of my biggest mistakes. I was struggling emotionally and in school; I really thought I could keep it all to myself. Eventually it all came undone at the same time. If you are having a hard time, do not be afraid to ask for help.

3. Leave your past relationships in the past.

Part of the reason why I had a hard time freshmen year was because I kept letting my past get the best of me. I kept thinking about the boy from home that did not want anything to do with me anymore. I had such a hard time accepting this. So, if you are still letting some girl or boy from home ruin your college experience, stop thinking about them. There is so much to look forward to in your future. Do not waste time on someone who does not realize what they are missing out on. Forgive whomever they are for being too young to realize what they had.

4. Love Yourself.

This is something I wish someone would have told me this time last year. I was too hard on myself. I never took a step back to talk myself out of being sad or realize all the blessings I had. Treat yourself once a week, whether it be with food or binge watching your favorite Netflix show. Do little things that make you happy.

At 18, I thought I had everything figured out. I thought I was an actual adult who could make real life decisions. As my 20th birthday is quickly approaching, it is clear that I have hardly had any life experience and I am still learning. My freshmen year was a big challenge, to say the least. But because of the challenges I faced, I have become me a stronger person. Always remember that you are not alone. Keep your head up. Everything happens for a reason.

With love,

Meg.