Do: Try New Things
This is your chance at a fresh start, so say yes to new things! There are opportunities and potential friendships in anything in college. Try a new sport. Go to that party. Check out a club you might be interested in. The worst thing that happens? You don’t go back. The best? You find something new to be involved in, and some new friends!
Don’t: Only Hang Out with Your High School Friends
In a new environment, it is easy to gravitate towards people you are already comfortable around, such as your friends from high school. It is totally okay to stay close with these people, but be sure to branch out as well. Like I said, college is a fresh start, and you should be excited about all the fresh faces on campus!
Do: Take School Seriously
You are probably so nervous about moving away from home that you forgot the whole reason you are leaving in the first place: school. The craziness of Freshman year makes it easy to lose track of your studies. Sometimes you will want a break from the classroom, and that’s okay. However, just like in high school, you have to put in the effort to get the results you want. Do the readings. Go to office hours. You (and your GPA) will be glad you did.
Don’t: Make School Your Only Priority
School should always be a priority. However, it shouldn’t be the only thing on your mind. You are creating a new life for yourself in college, and that isn’t going to happen solely in the classroom. Be social and put yourself out there! Sometimes your readings can wait until tomorrow. Also be sure to hit the gym every once in a while (the Freshman 15 is a real thing, people)! Not only will you feel good, but you will look Spring Break-ready all year long.
Do: Explore Your New Home
Moving to a new city means new stores to shop at, food to try, and things to do. Be sure to branch out occasionally, and explore your new home! There are hidden gems everywhere. My personal favorite excuse to get off campus? Hunting for new coffee shops to study at in Austin.
Don’t: Forget to Call Your Parents
Freshman year is as new of an experience for your parents as it is for you (especially if you are the first or only child to leave home). No matter how hectic things get, be sure to give them a call every couple of days, at least. It will be comforting for you to hear a bit about home, and your parents are dying to know what you are up to. If you have a dog, FaceTime them. They miss you, too!
Do: Get Excited!
Get pumped! Freshman year will be the best year of your life (so far), and it only happens once. Not everything will be perfect. You will miss home, make mistakes, fail an assignment, and that’s okay. This will be a learning experience in every way possible, but it will be worth it. Enjoy each day. Cheer loud at the football games. Stay up too late. This is college, after all.
For more insight into my Freshman year at The University of Texas at Austin, click here!
