College is an exciting time, especially for a Freshman. The first year of college is a time for freedom and late-night food runs. It is also a time to figure out who you are and what you want in the world. Take this first year to experiment and explore; you never know what you might figure out about yourself. Also, use this year to grow and mature as a person. Warning – it will happen, even if you don't try.
1. Don't be afraid to take chances. Try something new!
Your freshman year is the first time that you are free from the overbearing reign of your parents. At college you will have the opportunity to figure out who you are and what you truly want in life. You might end up changing your major once (or fifteen times), and that's okay!
2. Stay true to yourself.
Don't change who you are. People are going to be interested in different things. For example, if everyone is wearing a t-shirt and converse to class everyday, you do not need to feel obligated to do the same! Wear what makes you comfortable! Also, don't change your personal beliefs due to peer pressure. Freshman year is going to push your morals. If you don't like to drink, don't feel like you have to drink!
3. Always go to class.
It is easy to get into the habit of sleeping through class, especially if you had a long night beforehand. But the key to success during college is actually attending class. Who would have thought? Even if your professor does not take attendance, going to class can be the difference in an entire grade letter.
4. Do not go out if you have an 8 am or test the next day.
There will be parties every night. Going to class and passing tests are what your parents are paying good money for. Stay in and get some rest. Your friends won't get mad at you for staying in one or two nights a week, I promise.
5. Enjoy dorm life! You'll miss it when it's gone.
For the time being, community bathrooms and sharing a room sucks. But once you move off campus, the beauty of dorm life starts to shine. Food is just a few feet away, and with the simple swipe of a prepaid card it appears in your hand. People are constantly around you, meaning somebody in your hall attended class that day. Therefore, you always have access to studying and notes. Also, a roomie means that you always have a best friend to talk to, even in the middle of the night.
6. Get involved.
Freshman year will literally consist of Ramen and Netflix if you don't get involved. There are so many things to do on campus, ranging from going Greek to robotics club. Groups and activities will give you a leg up on a resumé, and it will also help you meet friends.
7. Don't forget to do normal people things.
Parties are fun, but there are other fun things in the world. These fun outings tend to be forgotten. Go see a movie, have a game night, go bowling. Actually leaving a nasty frat house and going out in the real world can be fun! Outings like these are a good way to actually get to know the people you hang out with, and it's a good idea to take a night off sometimes.
8. Don't walk on the grass.
Every school has a designated spot where it is forbidden to set foot on the grass. When you step on this certain area of grass, people know you are a freshman. Don't walk on the grass. Just don't do it.
9. Study! Study! Study!
Do your work. Go to class. And study. Studying is the key to success. Throughout high school we are taught that "C's get degrees," and though this might be true, C's will not land you your dream job. Taking the time to learn and study in college is important, especially if you want to land a very competitive internship or job.
10. Beware the Freshman 15... It is real!
By the end of Freshman year, many people look back and realize that the constant parties and late night food runs have caught up to them. The high school figure they once loved has now disappeared. Be aware that the freshman 15 is possible, and it actually happens to a ton of people. Maybe skip those Whataburger runs at three o'clock in the morning... or don't. I never did!
