Looking back on my college years has given me time to reflect on the impact your freshman year can have. All too soon that time is gone, and you’re like me, looking at your senior year wondering how you packed so many memories in such a short time. To make sure you make the most of your freshmen year, here’s my advice:
1. Dress nice for your first day of classes.
Your teachers will notice the effort, and while being a teachers pet may not be popular, teachers who respect you and take you seriously will be more willing to help you later in the semester.
2. Let go of high school.
It is important to remember that college is an entirely new world.
3. Make an A on your first assignment.
I know you’ve heard it said “Cs get degrees,” but do you know what As get you? Everything. Almost every leadership position and scholarship requires a certain GPA. You don’t want to miss out on amazing opportunities because you didn’t want to spend an extra five minutes studying. It’s much easier to maintain a high GPA than trying to pull one up your junior year.
4. Make a new friend in each class.
Having someone you can do homework and study with is such a relief. You never know when you’ll need a partner for a project or miss a class and need notes.
5. Join a club.
Don’t just settle for sitting in your room doing homework and watching Netflix. Make friends! Find people who share your passions.
6. Try something new.
You’re only young once. Go zip lining. Take your friends to the beach and camp out. Go to an international festival just to try the food.
7. Stay out too late.
It’s a sad fact of life that you have less energy the older you get. So use it while you have it! Go out! Grab your roommate, put on heels, and find out where everyone hangs out. You can catch up on sleep this weekend.
8. Eat pizza rolls.
Seriously. You’re metabolism has never been better. Eat that greasy food you’re craving for us who now have to think twice. We envy you. Take care of your body, drink water, get some sleep, and find out where that gym everyone keeps talking about is, but also live a little. Your body is going to grow and change, and that’s amazing! You need a grown up body that can handle grown up life, and if that means enjoying Cook Out at 10pm, you do you boo.
9. Learn new study habits.
Read your syllabus. It is the bible of college classes. Write those deadlines in a planner, so you know what to expect. Find a quiet place to study and don’t be afraid to email your teachers.
10. Make college your home.
It can be scary to leave home, but when you truly engage, you’ll find home is wherever you feel welcomed. Go out there and make college what you want it to be and find your family.
