It’s that time of year again! Fall semester is rolling in – if it hasn’t for some already – and classes are getting ready to be in full swing. It’s exciting, isn’t it? It’s time for a fresh start. Some of you may be moving from your small hometown to a big city school; you’ll be amazed by the sights and sounds of your new home for the next few years.
Some of you will be moving from a large city to a more affordable, economical school in smaller parts of the U.S. You’ll swoon at your first sight of snow, dread waking up for your 8am class, and revel in the Starbucks Coffee that sits just a block away – or, if you’re lucky, closer – from campus.
The sweltering summer heat will simmer to warmth, subsequently marking the change in season.
The point is things are changing.
Below, I’m going to tell you ten things that very well could change for you on your journey through undergrad.
Disclaimer: Sure, not all of these things will happen to all of you, but never say never.
#1: Adjustment
Adjusting to a new environment can be hard. You may go home every weekend. That will pass; soon, you’ll make friends and finds new things to discover that will keep you nearer and dearer to your campus.
#2: What is your major?
You will hear this time and time again, not only through your freshman year, but in all of your years in college. Sure, it may get annoying, but don’t say I didn’t warn you!
#3: Navigation
Chances are if you’re like me, you’ll find that you’re going to have to learn all new routes. Don’t worry: you will ultimately know the city or town by the back of your hand – until then, just use your Maps app!
#4: Food
Buy food. Meal plans suck. End of story.
#5: $=Good
Get a job. Part time will do. It’s nice to have emergency money when living in a dorm, and nice to have a little extra to save or spend too.
#6: Discounts
You’d be so surprised – or, at least I was – just how many places offer discounts to students for things. All it takes is your student ID, and you can get ALL the discounted Taco Bell.
#7: Diet
Then again, maybe getting all the discounted Taco Bell isn’t such a good idea; most students gain weight pretty easily once they move away to college. It can be tempting to eat Taco Bell every night of the week, but take it from me: your body will thank you for not doing it.
#8: Homework
Do your homework. Sure, the professor may give you an assignment every week for only five points, but those points add up so quickly. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
#9: Reminder
Remember, you are at school to learn. If you happen to be one of the kids whose parents sent them away to throw money down the drain for you to party every night, get drunk, and skip class, that’s great and all, but the point of college is to get a higher education.
#10: Have Fun
It kind of speaks for itself. Stay up late with friends. Hang out with your coworkers. Try new things that maybe weren’t available to you before. College is truly what you make of it.
