First semester was both everything/ nothing how I imagined. To be honest, I’m not quite sure what I thought college would be like. Amidst it all, here are a few things I've learned beyond the classroom:

1. Set goals for yourself, but be realistic. Seriously.

This one has always been the toughest life lesson for me to learn. I’m the type of person to set extremely high standards for myself, only to be disappointed when I don’t meet them. College has (slowly) made me realize that there is a difference between wanting to succeed and setting ridiculous, unobtainable goals for yourself. It’s okay to dream, but just know yourself and your limits. Everyone hates feeling disappointed with themselves.

2. Learn to say no.

You don’t want to do something? Just say no! Especially when it comes to organizations, don’t overwhelm yourself. You’re still human, and you can’t join every single organization you want to. Definitely take some time to find your fit, but don’t join twelve different organizations/sports teams. It’s really hard just to balance two or three. Work smarter, not harder.

3. ALWAYS wash your hands, because being sick 24/7 is real.

Have I fully recovered from that cold I got in November? Probably not. Once one person gets sick, it’s safe to say that you’ll be next.

4. Don’t forget who you are.

It sounds so cheesy, but it’s extremely easy to become influenced by the pressures of college. You make new friends, and you’ll find yourself willing to do anything to fit in with them. Before you think about doing something you aren’t comfortable with, just don’t. Remind yourself that there are people at school who share the same morals and beliefs as you. That’s the beauty about college - you can hang out with whoever you want!!

5. Finally: Not everything matters as much as you think it does.

Trust me on this one. Maybe it’s your very first college exam you take. You spend your free time at the library and study for days, only to receive a D. You’re probably thinking that this is the end for you, and nothing you do could possibly drag you out of the hole you’ve created for yourself. Speaking from experience, EVERYONE does terrible in college at first. Whatever your definition of "terrible" may be, no one comes into college as a pro. Things take time, and you learn how to study, WHAT to study, and how to balance your time. Soon your D's will turn into B’s, and suddenly, you’ll forget how you spent half the semester in the hole. Because in the end, what matters is the final result, and what you accomplish for yourself!

Here's to hoping second semester will bring double the memories, life lessons, and fun!