Dear Student,

If you are reading this, you probably could use some advice, or someone wants you to read this (your mom) because they know that it will soon be beneficial for you. I know when I was a freshman in college, I wished I had known some of the things listed below. At that age, you are going through such a big transition in an unknown place, so some tips and reminders could be very helpful. So, with that being said, enjoy!

1. Employee parking spots are available after 4:30 p.m.

This is self-explanatory...this means that with your parking pass, you can park in an employee space after this time...I'm sure this time differs between schools, but not by much. This will help ensure you don't get a ticket your first year, at least.

2. Buses actually take you more places than you think.

Try and find a bus route map and catch the bus. Your feet will thank you later. AND you pay for them in your tuition, so "free" transportation! Woohoo!

3. Even if you have a meal plan, you will want to have snacks.

You may want an on-the-go breakfast if you're in a rush. And water bottles, especially if you're from out of state and you're not used to the taste of local water. Also, you will want a granola bar or some popcorn from time to time. Trust me, dining hall food can get old.

4. For Game Days, in the South especially, make sure to take pictures early.

It will be so hot that your hair frizzes and your makeup sweats completely off, so taking pictures (if you want them) will be better earlier. Also, wear shoes that you are willing to walk around in and stand on all day...the investment is worth it.

5. Eat three meals a day.

Whether you're going out on the weekend, or even just because you need energy and brain food, you will need to eat three full meals a day. If you don't have a meal plan and you actually pay for your food, then look for sales or eat Ramen as a last resort.

6. Don't be afraid to introduce yourself to people you don't know.

Especially if you go to a school where there are thousands and thousands of people, getting to know more people can make the campus feel smaller. This will also be beneficial because you are networking and getting to meet people from all around the country in other majors.

7. It's OK to change your major once, or even a couple times.

As scary, or as wasteful as this may seem, you want to make sure you love what you do and will want to do it for the rest of your life. A lot of the classes you take freshman year are gen-eds (general education requirements that everyone has to take to graduate), and the classes in your major that you switch out of can apply as elective credits or even a minor. Talk to your advisor about the best option for you.

8. You actually have to buy your textbooks, and they aren't cheap.

However, some classes don't even require the textbook. Most teachers will tell you to get the textbook, but only test you on the material from their lectures and homework. This all depends on what you want to do, but I would highly recommend asking upperclassmen about the class and professor before dropping $300 on a book you won't need.

9. The library may just become one of your most frequent hangout spots.

As nerdy as this may sound, college is tough and requires a lot of studying. The library has nice, quiet areas for group work or individual work, and you can escape the disruptive noises from your hall/roommate. They also have computers to use, Internet and typically some type of place to eat. What more could you want?

10. GO TO OFFICE HOURS IF YOU ARE CONFUSED.

Seriously, this is the best advice I can give. The professors are beyond intelligent and know their stuff. They have studied for longer than we've been alive, so they can easily explain topics you're confused about. If you're totally against this, at least make friends so you can get notes, homework, etc. Especially in classes that are lectures, you can make a study group! Honestly this has helped me in every one of my classes.

11. *If you go to Clemson*, log on to DegreeWorks through iRoar.

This is something that allows you to see what classes you've taken/requirements are filled already with previous credits and what else you still need to take! I just found out about this, but it was such a lifesaver when I was prepping for registration.

Lastly, college really is all about finding yourself and trying to figure out what you love. Try and enjoy it. It's stressful and jam-packed with having to learn for your future, but the experiences you have and the people you meet are great. Coming from someone who studies a lot, tries to make all A's and never misses class, I sometimes wish that I had focused less on those things and more on relationships and experiences while in college. I definitely think college is a time when you need to focus on school, but sometimes stressing out for hours to get a little higher of a grade isn't going to make or break you when you decide to start interviewing. Use your own discretion, though ;). Push through, you can do this!

Sincerely,

Someone who understands and can relate to you.