Whether you're the first kid to go through college or the last, it can be an intimidating experience. What I've determined from my experience is, ultimately, college is what you make it. Here is some of my advice for those of you headed to college or struggling with the college you're at.
1. Stay positive and find happiness in the little things.
Appreciate the little victories. You did well on a test you weren't expecting to pass, someone holds the door open for you, you finish your homework early, so you have some time to relax. When you appreciate the smaller things, you make way for bigger successes.
2. Making others happy will do the same for you.
Helping others makes you feel good about yourself. If you're a first year, find other students who might be just as lost as you and help each other. Even if you're not a first year, I always feel better when I give someone a compliment, hold the door open for someone or pick up something they've dropped. Offer to help a classmate study. Who knows, you might just become friends.
3. Do your homework, seriously.
This seems a little obvious, but the quicker you're done your homework and the earlier those assignments are turned in, not only will you feel better about the quality of your work because it wasn't rushed last-minute, but you'll have more time in the week to do the things you really want.
4. Reach out to people.
There is nothing that will make it or break it for you more than having people to lean on. Branch out to a new group of people through a class or club you're in. Find people you relate to, and grow from there. One of the great things about college: It doesn't matter if you have friends from all different walks of life! If they're your friend, that's that, no questions asked. Don't worry about not fitting in or not having all of your friends like each other. You're allowed to have friends of all types!
5. Cut off the people who are emotionally draining.
In college, you can find your best friends. Unfortunately, you will still be able to find people who bring bad qualities into your life. Don't waste your time on these people! Your happiness is what's most important; if people put that at risk, don't feel guilty about making changes in your friendships.
6. Be yourself.
Perhaps this one is a tad cliche, but people come to college under the impression it will be an unfortunate repeat of their high school experience. I'm here to tell you that being yourself in college is the best way to earn other's respect! Why continue to pretend to be someone you're not? Be yourself, and you'll see that nearly everyone around you is in the exact same situation, and will be able to appreciate you for you.
7. Feeling stuck? Adventure out of campus.
Go for a hike. Go on a nature walk. Go to a movie. Take your friend's dog for a walk; visit the animal shelter or volunteer locally. Find out more about the culture that surrounds your college campus than just what is within it!
8. Become a leader.
(And I'm nottalking about this purely for the resume building.) Being a leader or officer in a club or group on campus can provide you with a great sense of responsibility and appreciation. When people look up to you, you begin to look up to yourself, as well.
9. Speaking of leadership, join a club!
Join a group that incorporates something you're passionate about! This is a great way to step out of your comfort zone, meet new people and feel connected. No clubs that you like? Guess what? Colleges let you make clubs. Make a club about something you're passionate about!
10. Embrace your school spirit!
Hockey, football, baseball – you name it, and your college likely has it. Dress up in your school colors and head to a sports event with a group of your friends.
11. Be spontaneous.
Don't be afraid to make spontaneous decisions! Being in college means freedom. Take advantage of these four years of freedom – just don't go too crazy.
12. Find a gym buddy.
Going to the gym makes you feel great, inside and out. Find a gym buddy, or even join a fitness class like Zumba or yoga!
13. Take advantage of the opportunities your school offers!
You'd be amazed how many opportunities are paid for by your college to allow students to be able to go. Go see that play at the local theater where you get free tickets. Go see the ballet or an art show!
14. Don't be afraid to just relax and have some alone time.
College isn't all partying and going out. Don't feel intimidated by the "party scene." Plenty of people would rather hang out, make some popcorn and pop a movie in. There's nothing wrong with staying in on Friday nights and binge watching "Law & Order: SVU."
