As I near my very last semester of college, I’ve recently been reflecting on these past four years. Thinking back, there are definitely some things I know now that I wish I knew going in. If I could send a letter back to myself to shed light on a few things, this is what I would say…
Dear Freshman Me,
The rumors are true: college is the craziest and most fun four years of your life, and as scary and overwhelming as it may seem, I want you to know that you’re going to be okay.
Make an effort to be friends with the girls in your dorm. They are just as scared and overwhelmed with this whole thing as you are, and they’re going to become some of your best friends.
I know that a free buffet three times a day seems awesome now, but Freshman 15 is real. And four years from now, you will regret grabbing 4 slices of pizza and an ice cream sundae for breakfast, lunch, AND dinner.
Make friends with people in your classes and people who share your same major. I cannot stress enough how comforting it is to have someone that can help you when you get stuck on assignments.
Call mom and dad at least once a week. Ask how your sister’s doing. As much as they don’t want to tell you, they miss you more than words can explain.
Go to football games! I know sports aren’t your thing and it’s oh so hot under that AZ sun, but go to every single one. They’re free and there’s nothing like being in the student section cheering on your team.
Take advantage of your student discount. This one’s important. The phrase “broke college student” is ever so real and there are so many discounts you can take advantage of. Find them and use them all.
Stay on top of your grades. Yes, college is supposed to be fun, but don’t forget the reason why you are here.
On the other hand, don’t be lame. Hang out with your friends every chance you get. One day you’ll be an old senior like me and won’t be able to handle going out every single night of the week.
Don’t brush off that weird kid in your class who’s not in a fraternity. He has a heart of gold and will become someone you love dearly.
There will be this senior in your favorite fraternity that comes along…please don’t fall in love with him. As much as he tells you he feels the same way, he doesn’t.
Listen to your friends. They care for you and have your very best interest in mind.
Choose your friends and sorority sisters over boys. Every time. No questions. I know he’s cute, but trust me.
And most importantly, don’t waste an ounce of time while you’re here.
Take up every opportunity that gets presented to you. Go to every event that is on your calendar. Don’t spend half your week lying in bed, gorging yourself with snacks, and watching Netflix (Don’t worry, we only do this sometimes).
It is true what they say. Your four years in college will fly by. And time moves faster with each passing year. Embrace every single moment and to quote our friends from "We’re The Millers," live these next four years with NO RAGRETS.
Get ready little one. You’re in for a wild ride.
