College, you sure do like to creep up on us, don’t you? Millions of rising college freshmen across the world are preparing to embark on this new adventure; excited, sad, nervous and stressed are just a few of the emotions that we all share. Whether you are going 20 minutes down the road or a thousand miles away, here are some tips that every college freshman should consider before they head off into the unknown.
1. Dorm Shopping
There is always a love/hate relationship with dorm shopping. The build up is usually the best part, where ideas are formed and you meet with your roommate to discuss bedspreads, colors and decorations. But when you realize it is July and you only have your sheets, no fear, because Etsy is here! Etsy is a online store which offers anything, whether it be pillows or shower caddies. Who knew pillow cases could be so expensive?
2. Thank You Cards
Now, I am not talking about writing thank you cards to everyone who gave you a graduation gift (although those are a must). I am talking about writing a thank you card to people who have influenced you prior to this next step. Thank your fifth grade teacher who believed in you when every teacher before them did not. Mrs. Cooper, yes, I am talking about you. Thank the friend who betrayed you in ninth grade; without them, you would not have become close with your real "BFFL." Most importantly, thank your parents and siblings. Without their support you would not be the person you are today, and remember, you will miss them more than you can imagine when you leave.
3. Rate My Professor
Future freshies, Rate My Professor is heaven sent. Look up any of your future professors through this website, and they are rated by students who have experienced their class, offering advice to all the newbies. You can discover how your professor prefers their coffee and the most important question... How much homework do they give?
4. Prepare for the first week of class.
Typically the few months leading up to college, students are not thinking about class. In preparation for class, one should look up the course curriculum for your future classes. Do not worry about purchasing textbooks until after you begin class, and renting textbooks is an awesome alternative to buying. Investing in an agenda, dorm calendar and organizer is essential to make sure you are keeping up with your assignments and social events as well.
5. Embrace your hometown.
Growing up, we often take our hometown for granted. We constantly say "there is nothing to do here," but in the final weeks before your departure, you should take in everything your hometown has to offer. Enjoy the local BBQ joint, go on the lake with your friends, go bowling, go to the movies... Maybe you could even go to the local library! OK, maybe not the library... Seriously though, your hometown has more to offer than you ever thought, enjoy the simple things.
6. Quality Time
Family. The most important thing life has to offer. Before you head off to college, take every chance you can to spend quality time with your siblings and parents. Put down the Netflix for a few hours and plan a girls' weekend with your Mom. Or, if you're feeling extra crazy, agree to see "Star Trek" with your Dad, like I unfortunately did. Negotiate with your little brother on why he absolutely cannot turn your bedroom into a video game haven. Negotiate with your older brother on how protective he needs to be the next four years. Embrace this time and remember that you going to college is a change for your loved ones too.
7. Communication With Friends
The hardest part about leaving your hometown is the friendships you seemingly leave behind. While family will always be there no matter what, friendships take extra effort, especially if your friends are going to different schools all over the country. Make sure to keep in touch through text, calls and Snapchat, but also make sure to plan those regular FaceTime dates. Sooner than you know, it will be Thanksgiving and you all will be catching up about your new friends and changes that have already occurred in the short few months.
Leaving for college is daunting, but taking it day by day and step by step makes it easier. Understand that this is a part of life and get pumped for what are called "the four best years of your life."
