To my friends that will begin college this Fall,
Take a moment and stop what you're doing. Take a break from looking at pictures of the campus, the recreation center and the sorority or fraternity houses on greek row. Now, take a moment to realize that you will soon become the next freshmen class. Take a breath and stop stressing out about the little things such as the design of your dorm or how many shoes to bring to school. You're not in high school anymore, no one will care what you wear to class. I'm sorry to say, but now you have to start "adulting" (or attempting to). You're most likely feeling a bit on edge. Considering how much you have to prepare for in the next few weeks or months you're probably scared, stressed and sad about leaving. Let me tell you now: it's not going to be easy, but you're not dying. You will be OK and you will grow as a person once you find your place.
Here are a few things to remember that I wish I was told a year ago: don't stress about the tiny things. Although it is easier said than done, don't waste times on things that won't matter for more than an hour. I spent the majority of my first couple months doing exactly that. Although this is your first year at college, it can also be the perfect time to challenge yourself in all aspects of your life.
Through my eyes, I was the same person I was walking through the campus my first day of high school. I felt as if I had to stay under the radar, I knew I had very little say in anything so I thought maybe it was best to just stay quiet and let my year be determined by the people I was surrounded by. I was wrong. You will be wrong if you do the same. Luckily for myself, I expanded my circles after a few months of letting my nerves get the best of me. I hope you do the same as well because there is no better time to start than the first day. No one really knows who you are. You could completely transform yourself and no one would know. It's a blank page and what you put on it is entirely up to you.
Lastly, and most importantly, I want you guys to always remember you should never settle. Don't settle for the B in the class, the boy that doesn't treat you right, or the way something is going in college. You're there to make the most of your four years and it doesn't include settling for less than you are. This is the time to try new things and go out of your comfort zone, and the first year of college is the ideal time to do so.
With this all said, I hope you guys know the world is your oyster. There is so much out there at your new school you haven't even seen yet. Your first year will be a time to struggle, but along with that comes the ability to grow and develop as an individual. You are no longer connected to the high school scene, you have only yourself to fall back on so keep in mind not everything will come as easy.
It's as cheesy as it sounds, but everything happens for a reason: you didn't get the job you applied for? Apply for a different one. Some boy ruined your night? You'll have 100 better nights. You thought you would do better on a test? Study harder next time. I made more than enough excuses for my mistakes, and although there is no way to avoid mistakes, I hope that this piece of advice will give you more confidence and inspiration to be the best version of yourself this year. You guys are beautiful and strong individuals who are capable of more than you know. I can't wait to hear about all of your experiences!
