Congratulations, class of 2019! You're done with high school and about to start the most transformative year of your life so far. If you're like most of my friends, you're probably excited, but you are also more than a little anxious and unsure of what to expect of this new, independent life. Looking back now, I can honestly say I learned more my freshman year than any other time.
Here are a few things I figured out over the course of this roller coaster of a year:
1. Everyone is a little homesick.
Contrary to what Instagram pictures may show, most people get homesick every now and then. Don't worry, you're not the only one missing home-cooked meals, your own bed or your hometown.
2. Getting involved is important.
Go to your school's club fair and sign up for things that interest you. It's the very best way to find those "forever friends" people talk about. From intramural sports to a capella groups, from Greek life to community service organizations, there's got to be something you want to do.
3. But not too involved.
Club fairs are overwhelming. If you're like I am, you probably signed up for way more clubs' e-mail lists than is even possible to keep track of. Don't spread yourself too thin—pick a few groups that you find really interesting and stick to those!
4. Rush will work out.
As much as you want to be in the same sorority as your first semester friends and as much as you think you know which you belong in, you just have to "trust the process." I promise you'll end up exactly where you're supposed to be.
5. Do your homework, and do it on time.
You'll thank me later when you're not pulling an all-nighter before you first exam after not keeping up with any of the class readings or "optional" homework.
6. Being self-motivated is key.
You don't have your parents telling you to get your homework done or your track coach leading practices after school. It's up to you to plan your day and make time for school work, exercise and friends.
7. Some days are just plain boring.
There will be days when all you do is go to class then hang out around your dorm watching "Friday Night Lights" and "High School Musical" sing-a-longs on Netflix until bedtime. Don't feel bad or give in to FOMO. Everybody has those days.
8. On the other hand, there will be some days you'll wish would never end.
There's something about those first sunny spring days after the snow melts and the parkas are packed away that make you realize why they say college is the best time of your life.
9. You can still have your high school friends when you go back home.
Your high school best friends were with you for your awkward stage, your first boyfriend and all the firsts in between. Even though you're all making new friends in college, nobody can replace those friends. Remember the Girl Scout theme song!
10. Be in the moment because it'll be over before you know it.
Time flies when you're having fun in your new school, but it also flies when you're distracted, uninvolved and procrastinating. Try to make the most out of all the time you have, because in the blink of an eye, you'll be home for the summer and missing your days in the dorm.
