August is upon us, which means the first day of school is right around the corner. Many incoming freshmen across the nation (and world) are getting ready to embark on a journey that is going to be new, exciting, a little scary, quite crazy, but overall rewarding. I wish I would've had someone in my life to give me a manual on college life. Maybe some tips and tricks on how to study, how to handle different situations, and how to balance school and social life. I didn't, and I think I turned out alright, but I want to give that to a new student, no matter who they may be.
Dear College Freshman,
YOU MADE IT! No matter where you applied! Community college, Junior college, or even a big name University, you made it! If you've never heard it before, I'm here to tell you that I'm proud of you. Now, this journey won't be easy. It's full of ups and downs, late nights and very early mornings. Heartaches and heartbreaks, as well as good vibes and big smiles. College is LIFE CHANGING.
High school is nothing like college. It's time to buckle down. Study more than you ever have. Focus more than you thought you would. Do more than you ever wanted to do, far as your studies go. Talk to your professors, because they don't bite (if they do, tell someone), and make sure they know your name because it will come in handy. If you need help with school work, please make sure to ask. No one is going to know you aren't passing college algebra, or know you're struggling with anatomy and physiology if you don't say anything! Always remember: "Closed mouths don't get fed." It definitely applies to this situation.
Make sure you're getting involved and meeting people! In my college experience I've seen many friends come, but I've seen plenty of them go, because they didn't go the extra mile, or the extra steps down their residence hall, to meet new people. You may come into your college campus knowing 25 people, or maybe knowing two, but either way it's time to branch out and make new friends. Get involved in organizations! Whether it's greek life, an intramural sports team, an on campus job or even starting your own club! Get involved and make friends. Take it from me, it will definitely make a huge impact on your college experience.
Now, if I sat here and told you every single thing to know, or do, in your college life, it wouldn't be yours. College is your time to find yourself. Become the person you want and can grow to be. Find things that interest you. Find the people you want to be standing beside you at your wedding. Make memories that will last a lifetime. I can say that my time at Stephen F. Austin has been one for the books, and although it isn't over, I'm sadly counting down the days. Make the most of your time in college, because once the days are gone you can't get your undergrad days back.
Be safe, study, make friends, but overall: ENJOY it. You'll never have more fun in 4 (5, maybe 6) years in your life.
Sincerely,
A College Senior
