I had always dreamed about playing a sport for a D1 school or the tremendous experiences I would have at a sizeable college/university. I remember looking at the college scene and knowing that I wanted to, in some capacity, lead a life like the characters on television. I didn't however, fully understand how complex college would be until my first day. After surviving many "all-nighters", exams, fits of rage, and the feeling of euphoria; I feel that it is only right that I share my experiences with those that are anxious about what freshman year will hold for them.
1. Study! Study! Study!
Yes, we've all been told countless stories about long nights in the library and cramming until the last minute. I'm here to tell you that both of those stories are true and no, you can't always avoid either one. In my experience, the transition from high school to college meant learning how to study all over again. Say farewell to the days of not studying for an exam and being able to get a great score. College is a place where you could study for weeks on end and still not get the grade you thought you deserved. This can leave you feeling dejected but don't stay in a stupor too long! Use the first exam to rework your study techniques (yes, study your study habits) and make one change at a time.
Pro-Tip: If your studying just isn't cutting it, try visiting the professors during office hours and look at the resources your school offers. There are guaranteed to be some form of study tips/skills and time management coordinators that can help you get the most out of your studying.
2. Free Food Is the BEST Food!
The fall is jam-packed with extraordinary events designed to attract new faces to clubs and organizations on campus and within the area. To all college students, the fall is a time to save your meal points by attending as many events as possible. Groups often entice students by promoting the free food they will be serving as gratitude for coming and listening to what they have to say. If you play your cards right, you could potentially get free lunch and/or dinner for weeks (if you're lucky, they might also give you free spirit wear). Nothing says college goals more than free food and saving money!
3. Finding YOUR Passion Isn't Always Easy
Don't let your major be a major stressor during your first semester! It's perfectly okay to have a plan or to be undecided. There is no test that will force you to choose on the first day, so don't feel pressured or bad about not knowing what you want to major in. Your major is simply your major interest and finding your interests take time. You'll know your passion when you find it.
Pro-Tip: Use the first couple weeks of school to sit in on different classes or take a broad range of classes. Also, know that the professors truly make or break the course. It could be a fascinating topic but if the teacher's monotone voice constantly puts you to sleep, you won’t ascertain as much as you could. Take a class that makes you excited. That'll make doing the homework more enjoyable in the long run.
4. Be True To Yourself
I know this sounds cliché but independence is scary. You go from living in a place that is at least somewhat familiar, to being thrown in a place with strangers that want to know you by name and story. College is a time to find your passions and submerge yourself into those delights. Don't join clubs that you don't have an interest in just because it'll look great on a resume. Find organizations and relationships that allow you to become the person you want to be. Just remember that you're amazing the way you are!
