So rooming assignments have just been sent out and it seems to have sent the whole Radford University class of 2021 into a frenzy. People are suddenly realizing the time for college is now and it's not something we can put off any longer. It's time to get those essential items for the dorm room and start thinking about classes. Here are ten things myself and other freshman are jittery about this upcoming year.
1. Triple rooms
This is something I've noticed has happened to a lot of people and while it sounds bad, think of it in a positive way. You'll have two new friends to start your college experience with and if anything, it's temporary. Your dorm is a shared space and I understand having to share it with one more person than you originally planned is more than you bargained for. Just make the best of the situation and try to make it work.
2. Laundry
Some of us are still used to our clothes magically appear clean and folded in our bedrooms and that's okay. However, now might be the time to get that laundry fairy to share her magical powers with you so you aren't completely clueless when it's time to do that first load of laundry. Trust me, the sniff test is not going to work forever. You will eventually have to clean your favorite t-shirt you've worn twice, maybe three times already.
3. The Freshman 15
Okay, so when food is readily available to you I can see how gaining a little weight is a possibility, but as long as you are making healthy choices and utilizing resources like the Wellness Center you will not go home significantly bigger than when your parents dropped you off. For starters, you are almost certainly walking to all of your classes and it's not a short walk for some. Then if you really want to be healthy and avoid gaining a little extra weight, just take the stairs instead of the elevator because I know that's what I'll be doing. For every unhealthy decision, there is a healthier option.
4. Homesickness
Yes, it will happen and yes, it's normal. You'll probably just be sitting around minding your own business and it's going to hit you like a ton of bricks that you miss your family and your friends back home. Just remember you can always call or FaceTime your family and friends and that we have a break almost every other month.
5. Classes
For those of us used to more than thirty kids in a class due to overcrowding in public schools, Congratulations! Lecture classes will be a breeze. Don't get too confident though. Always contact your professor during their scheduled office hours if you need help and don't be afraid to form study groups because after all, a little help could be the difference between a 'C' and a 'B' in that class you are struggling in. Use every resource available to you and make time to study. Don't be that student that thinks they never have to study for a class.
6. Making Friends
Be outgoing and introduce yourself. Remember, you are not alone your freshman year. Everyone is just as confused as you are about 'adulting' and being independent. I am a naturally shy and reserved person until I get to know people, but I know when that first day comes and I seeing friend groups forming that I want to be in on the action. Do not be afraid to take a chance and talk to people. You never know who you will meet.
7. Budgeting
Save, Save, Save! Take advantage of free events on-campus and student discounts.There are things like bowling and movies that don't cost money if you have that student ID. I know a couple of bucks here and there doesn't seem like much but it could mean the difference between buying that new laptop you want or dealing with the older, slower one and you do not want that older, slower one when you are trying to get a paper finished before midnight and you have to wait for everything to load.
8. Finding a Job
Look for opportunities right on campus. Those jobs are going to be the ones with superiors who understand your education comes first. Don't stress if you can't find anything right away. We are in college to further our education, not make a minimum wage job our priority. The job helps with spending money but it's not a permanent thing.
9. Scheduling
I can not stress enough to not spread yourself too thin. I know all of the clubs and events look fun but remember what you are there for. Those classes and schoolwork come first. Keep a planner or calendar somewhere with everything written down. You have homework for that English class, write it down and pick a time to sit down and do it. The more structured your schedule is, the more you will notice that you have some free time.
10. Having Fun
"Is college going to be fun?" I know this is the last thing we should all be worried about but I mean come on, we didn't come this far for it not to be a little fun. The answer is yes, college will be fun but don't lose sight of what's important. We all chose our universities for multiple reasons but our degrees are endgame, not the party happening the night before a big test.