The first semester of college has come to an end. One of the most stressful, but exciting times in any college student's life. During this time we are exposed to new opportunities both good and bad, new friendships and harder courses. We no longer have our parents to cook meals for us and make sure we turn in work on time. Naturally we are forced to become more independent, causing us to make choices and handle situations that we may not have prior to college.
My first semester as a college student was full of laughs, tears, homework, stress, smiles, sleepless nights and a whole lot more. Although there were many rough moments, there were always enjoyable times to follow. Lessons were learned and great friendships were made.
Here’s a few lessons I learned during my first semester of college.
1. Find friends you can count on
Creating new friendships isn’t always easy. What may seem like a great match may turn out to be absolutely horrible. Developing genuine friendships takes time, but is important. While away at school our family and friends back home aren’t physically there to support us. They may only be a phone call away, but when having a rough day it’s nice to have a friend at school to speak with and vent to. Someone who genuinely cares about your feelings and wants what's best for you.
2. It is OK to be homesick
Being away from home for a long period of time for the first time can be challenging for many. A college dorm bed doesn't feel as cozy and comfy as your bed back home. A roommate can’t replace the bond you have with siblings that you miss so dearly. Not having a dog cuddling up next to you are night just doesn't feel right. Your parents that you once couldn't wait to get away from you now wish were there yelling at you to clean your room. Being homesick is normal and is something that happens to majority college students at one point or another.
3. One bad test score doesn’t make or break who you are
Coming from someone who received a C- on their first college biology exam, I know what it feels like wanting to give up. When the going gets tough you can’t give up though. That C- quickly got me realizing I had to do something different. I made study sheets and note cards before each exam and by surprise never again did I receive a grade lower than an A. One exam grade does not make or break who you are and where you’re striving to get to.
4. Always be true to yourself
For many college is a fresh start away from the people they spent years going to school with. The rumors that were once whispered about you in high school hallways are now irrelevant. Although this is a great time to start over and change things about yourself that you may not like, it’s important to be true to who you really are. Everything that you have done up until this point has shaped you into who you truly are. If people are pressuring you to party every night of the week, but you don’t want to, you don't have to. If you aren’t ready to dive into a relationship with the cute boy in your history class, then don’t. Don’t let new friendships or a cute boy change the choices you make and values you have.