Freshman year is all about new beginnings: new friends, living in a new dorm, and making new memories. It can seem like an overload of newness, however once you get through the “new this” and “new that” phase, you begin to embrace college for what it is. Along the way, you meet people whom you will spend the next four years of you life with, you meet that one professor who will forever change the way you view your major, and you start to finally piece the rest of your life together. Freshman year is the perfect time to explore life, make silly mistakes, and learn a few things while you’re there. Looking back, there are a few things I wish I knew while I was a freshman.
1. There are so, so many decisions.
You may or may not be prepared for the crazy things you have to decide on. For example, do you really need to go get that piercing you’ve always wanted, but could never get in high school? Do you have to get that tattoo you’ve always wanted right now? Do you really need to run to Target again and buy whatever’s on sale? Whatever you decide, try and make it a good decision. Target is always great, but don’t pay only $8 for a coffee maker and expect it to work extremely well.
2. You can actually take as many pictures as you want.
Since you only get one freshman year, it is okay to document all your memories in pictures. You just don’t have to post every single one on Instagram. Also, take as many 3 a.m. study selfies as you want to post on Snapchat, and be sure to post the 8 a.m. selfies the next day to show you are up and going to that class.
3. You can go to parties, or you can not.
Who knew you didn’t have to attend every party!? Sometimes it’s okay to just have a chill weekend. Go to some parties, meet lots of people, and have fun. After all, you deserve a night out after that long week of classes.
4. You do not need to choose a major right now.
I know you always hear this, but its true. Some people go into college, know what they want to do, and stick with it. Some people change their mind. Some people have no idea. You will figure it out eventually. Freshman year is for figuring things out.
5. Old friends are still your friends.
Most of your “old” friends are probably at a different college than you. Thank goodness for texting! Keep in contact with your old friends. When you’re all at home over break, you’ll be glad you still have them.
6. New friends are a must.
I know you love all the friends you already have, but you also have to make new friends. And, you will make so many new friends. Girls, just know that other every girl you meet, or every girl in the sorority you joined, cannot be your bridesmaid. But, you can treat them like they’re all going to be. Make the most and best possible memories you can with these people. It’s your freshman year of college, and you only get one chance embrace being new to college.
