As this year comes to a close I find myself wondering how such a monumental year could fly by so quickly. My freshman year of college, my first year away from home, away from my parents and friends, away from the familiar faces and places I had grown up with- how could such a year be… over? Well folks, as they like to say, time flies when you’re having fun. And I did have fun, sometimes maybe too much. But I’m not going to lie, this past year hasn’t been easy in any sense of the word. There have been late night phone calls home and lots of time spent studying for tests that I really shouldn’t have to study for, but there have also been crazy, amazing nights out, and hours of playing frisbee with friends. So with that said, here is a list of observations, notes, recommendations, and insights into what will be one of the most influential years of your life.
1. Change is good.
Yeah, it can be scary as hell. That first night in your dorm room, sleeping next to a stranger is humbling, to say the least, but it will force you to grow like never before. You will learn what you like and dislike, and along the way you will pick up interests and appetites that will shape you into a person you are proud to be.
2. Try new things.
At the beginning of the year I signed up for twelve, yes twelve, clubs. I went to maybe two (belly dancing and potluck club, I believe) but neither grabbed me so I never went back. My biggest regret is not getting involved in more clubs sooner. I was only taking three classes first semester and not working, so I spent way too much time in my bed watching Netflix and eating cereal out of the box. This semester is way better because I am much busier and finally starting to get involved in clubs. I am having so much fun and am meeting so many cool people who enjoy the same sorts of things I do, I wonder why I didn’t start sooner.
3. Get a job.
Even if you don’t need a job (let’s be real, we all need extra cash) get one. I decided to apply for a job second semester because I wanted some extra spending money and needed some work experiences and I ended up landing a great position that I plan to keep for the next three years. With a job you can make great connections, meet new friends, gain work experience, and make some dough -- what’s not to love?
4. Being lonely is okay.
At least at first, you will probably be spending a lot of time on your own and you will most likely be experiencing some form of homesickness. Don’t worry, everyone else is experiencing these same emotions and will probably be super understanding and sweet if you want to talk. Also, you will learn a lot about yourself if you just spend some time on your own. Oh and call home- a lot. The first couple weeks of school I would be on the phone at least an hour a day with either my mom, my dad, or my sister. Trust me, they will be missing you as much if not more than you are missing them, so pick up the phone and give them a call, it will help so much.
5. Go out.
Go to at least a couple parties. I understand if that isn’t your scene, but you’re sure to meet a couple people you like, and it is so much better than sitting in your dorm room on a Friday night, wondering what everyone else is up to.
6. Don’t worry if you don’t find your group right away.
Chances are, there are a lot of people out there who haven’t met their groups either and are just waiting to stumble upon you. The friends you make at the beginning of the year may be temporary until you meet your real group later, or they may be your best friends and your soul mates. I was lucky enough to find some people right away who fit into the latter category, but I have also met some of the best people yet in this last month of school. Keep your heart open and your circle will keep growing!
Best of luck!
