Dear high school seniors, there are some things you need to know.
1. Boys/girls
Yeah, you read that right. Don't follow your boyfriend/girlfriend to college. If you do, it could be because you really enjoy that school and the education system is phenomenal and is absolutely meant for the both of you. But, if you are someone like me who was an idiot and decided to "follow their heart," don't.
Your the love that is all good and pure, DON'T DO IT.
I'm not saying the relationship won't last, maybe you're great at long distance. I'm saying this to allow you to think about what is best for you and your education, don't ruin it and go to some college you have never heard of because a boy/girl told you to.
Granted, I personally ruined my education by skipping class, but that's another point we will get to later. The school wasn't bad at all, it just wasn't my first choice. I did have some great times there, but I was never entirely happy with myself or my choice. So, please consider yourself before another person on this. Your boyfriend/girlfriend isn't going to get your degree for you.
2. Parties
Some of you are thinking, yeah right I will never go to a party. Don't lie. I said that to and I went. I was completely against it, I hated the thought of getting drunk for entertainment and dancing and taking shots. I found it disgusting and repulsive, yet I still did it. Someone you probably never will, congrats to you.
For those of you who will or already do for that matter, don't let it ruin your education and don't go to college just to party, you will literally be in debt by thousands and want to punch yourself in the face later, I know because I have many friends that have experienced that on a personal level.
3. Sorority/fraternity
Since we are talking about parties, allow me to introduce to you Greek life. For those of you who are going to rush because you think it's cool and will make you popular, you're absolutely right it will. But, for what you think it is, it's much more. Greek life doesn't sit idly by and throw their drinks in the air and have parties 24/7.
Parties are a thing, but Greek life is so much more than just a party. It's a commitment. Philanthropy, fundraisers, dues, initiation, etc.. It's beyond what you could imagine and once you understand the meaning of everything, it means that much more to you. It's an honor to be a Greek. We wear our letters with pride and don't bat an eye to those who despise us because we know what it means to wear our letters.
4. 4.0
Many of you will probably want to punch me after I say this. But, getting a 4.0 in college. Good luck. For those of you who have a 4.0 right now in high school, congratulations. All of those AP classes and extracurricular activities paid off.
Now multiply that by 50 and you have college. Want to graduate Summa Cum Laude? Work your ass off. Don't join Greek Life in your first year, especially the first semester, it only makes it THAT much harder.
5. Major/minor
Don't pick something just because it sounds cool or you were good at it in high school. You may not have something you are completely passionate about. That can be a good thing.
Get your basics out of the way, take a class or two each semester from different majors/minors and allow yourself to experience before going into something that you could regret later.
6. On-campus activities/concerts
Go to them. You will get bored and you will want to have something to do. I understand you are shy, but they have activities that allow you to become more open and express yourself. Go, make friends, have a great time, enjoy yourself.
Don't sit in your room on your bed watching Netflix 24/7 and then regret not going to the water balloon fight the next day. They do these activities for all students, all they ask is you bring your student ID. It's a complete blast and a great way to make some fun college memories without partying.
7. Loans
Steer away from them as much as possible. That's really the only thing I have to say about it.
8. Work
Get a job. There will be expenses at school that you wouldn't have ever thought of. Trust me when I say take advantage of work-study positions and places that are hiring close to campus.
