The time has come, and now you are a college freshman. As you move into your dorm, you're either an emotional wreck like I was, or you can't stop thinking about the party that's happening on Friday night. Either way, it's still a pretty big deal, and, though you may be going through some fear, just know that everyone else is just as scared as you are.
I've only experienced two weeks of college, but, in my time on campus, I've noticed a few things. I've noticed that it can be hard to take proper care of yourself. I've also noticed that everyone seems to be scared of something: classes, the dreaded freshman 15, or talking to the cute football player in your physics class. And, ultimately, I've noticed that college is already one of the greatest experiences of my life so far. Though you may be caught up in all of the excitement, it's important to take a moment to recognize what I like to call the Dos and Don'ts of freshman year.
Do - Call your parents
Yes, you may be a college student now. But no, that doesn't mean that you're too cool to call your parents. They're still an insanely important part of your life, and they deserve a call or text from you every now and then.
Don't - Go to every party you hear about
You're excited, and you should be! College will allow you to grow into the person you're supposed to be, but don't rush it. Don't feel the need to party every night. Though you should have fun, college isn't just about partying. You're going to college to further your education--you should be, at least.
Do - Remember proper hygiene
Sometimes getting up in the morning is going to be very difficult, especially if you're out drinking every night. But that doesn't mean you should skip showering or brushing your teeth. It can become very easy to forget about brushing your teeth or washing your face. We've all been there before, right? But now is the time when you really need to step up your game when it comes to taking care of yourself.
Don't - Worry about dating
Hormones are racing and hearts are dropping into stomachs because of the amount of cute boys and/or hot girls, yes. But don't get ahead of yourself. You're starting out as a freshman, and you still have so many people to meet. Don't rush into anything quite so fast. Sure, look at those cute boys; I encourage a little staring and some awkward eye contact. But don't submit yourself to a "thing" or relationship quite yet, because you have plenty of time to do that in the future.
Do - Build relationships with your RA, professors, and advisors
These people really do matter, and they can have a very large impact on your future and college career. RAs aren't bad like they're put out to be, and though it may be scary to talk to your professor or advisor, it is literally their job to help/educate you. Don't take that for granted.
Don't - Eat everything you see in the food court
After a long day of classes or a disgusting morning filled with a hangover, I can guarantee that those nachos look like the best thing you could ever eat. But, be careful. Eating the most unhealthy things in the food court can really add up, and, like I said, in college it becomes a little more difficult to take care of yourself. If you aren't a college athlete, your metabolism is probably starting to slow down, and you may be a little less active than you used to be, so choose wisely.
Do - Become familiar with your classes and study
This isn't high school, people; classes are going to be harder and contain more work than ever before. I cannot stress this enough: read your syllabus! Don't just skim it, read it! It will most likely contain all of the information you'll need for the class--whether it be the professors policy on attendance, the homework/quiz/test schedule, or even grading. Take the time to study the material you're given and to work hard towards reaching your goals.
Don't - Procrastinate or skip classes
It's easy to do, oh so easy. But, trust me, getting behind in your studies is one of the worst things that could happen. You should be going to class, because, in all reality, that's why you're going to college. You're paying for that class, so by not going or by not doing the work, you're basically throwing your money away.
Do - Get involved
Join clubs, talk to classmates, play mud volleyball, sit by someone new in the food court. Meeting people is one of the best parts of college! Chances are that you'll meet some people who have the same interests and the same morals as you. I know that it can be scary, but, in reality, everyone is going to be nervous. So just be yourself, and you'll find the right people.