It's October. As a freshman, I've officially survived my first month of college. That doesn't seem too long to the average human, but it has sure felt that way to me. I have learned so much about myself and so much has changed throughout this first month in my new life. Some for the worst, but most for the better. I have officially been exposed to the adult lifestyle, and I have to say, it has been an interesting ride thus far. Here are just a few of the things I've learned from my first month on campus:
Friendships
Those first-weekend friendships, yeah, those weren't meant to last. In the hubbub of move-in weekend, most people are desperate to find that hardcore friend group that will stick with them throughout the entire year. Uh-Uh honey, that's not at all how it works. Most of the people you meet on your first weekend on campus will barely stick with you long enough to learn your last name. Granted, there are those special situations where certain people may just "click", but this is very rare. But don't get too down-and-out on yourself. The biggest mistake I made my first couple weeks was thinking that I was never going to make a friend that would stick. Give it some time and you'll find that special someone(s) who make you feel right at home.
Handling Academic Life
The biggest misconception about college classes are that they are just like high school classes. This is NOT at all the case. You may not have as many of them per day as in high school, but typically, one college class requires the work and effort of two high school classes. Studying will likely take over the majority of your life, at least at the beginning. But that's perfectly okay! Another misconception about college is that there isn't much difference between professors and high school teachers. Again, not exactly. Unlike high school teachers, college professors will not accept excuses or late work of any kind. It is true that in college, you may choose to skip class if you wish to. But if you do and miss something important, in most cases, too bad so sad.
Dorm Life
One of the most challenging aspects of college is adjusting to living in a dorm. Doing your own laundry, becoming independent, and most importantly, sharing a living space with a complete stranger. It takes time to get used to, but it is likely that you and your roommate will get along just fine. Every so often, roommate combinations do not work as smoothly as expected. Personally, my roommate and I are not exactly a match made in heaven. One of the most important things you can do is develop some sort of relationship with your roommate during the first week on campus. That is something I would have done, if I had the opportunity to go back. Meeting your neighbors is very important as well. Your best friend may be living right down the hall from you, i know mine is. Having people nearby to go to when you need a mac and cheese cup or a roll of toilet paper is more important then you would think.
Get Involved!
Becoming involved in a group or organization is so important for developing new friendships that will stick. It was difficult at first for me to find something that interested me. But after visiting the organization fair and contacting some org reps, it was pretty easy to find my place. You will likely start at least one org and realize it is not at all for you, but that's perfectly fine. College is all about trying new things and deciding what it is you are most passionate about. My third week on campus I tried out for the Hip Hop Club, just because it sounded interesting. I quickly realized it had been too long since I'd "broke it down" and that was not the right place for me. But then I found Odyssey, and I have to say it feels like home because I'm doing what I love, writing. Which is ultimately
the most important.After a month, I am by no means an expert on college life. But this new lifestyle has taught me a number of things and how to act like an adult. I hope to have many more interesting experiences as the year continues and who knows, maybe they'll be a part 2 to this article? Advice after completing my first year? Guess you'll have to stick around and find out!
