Thinking back to the summer before my freshmen year of college, I didn't have a clue what college really was. I had no idea what to expect of anything: what to bring, what to buy, and what I should be prepared for. To say the least, I was terrified and scared to do anything. Luckily, I made a few friends that helped me step outside my comfort-zone throughout the duration of freshmen year. And there are several things that I did that I believe every freshmen should try to do.
1. Take a drive around the town/city.
One of my first friends on campus was a towny, so she took a group of us on a grand tour of our tiny college town. But even if you are attending a big state school, look up some hole-in-the-wall restaurants to try out or check out the stores in the area. It's good to know the town you will be living in for the next four (or more) years.
2. Join a group/organization on a whim.
Like singing but never tried choir in high school? Why not try it now? Honestly, the worst that can happen is that you audition and don't make it, or you do make it and don't like it and quit. I joined my co-ed fraternity because of peer pressure and it honestly is one of the best organizations I've ever been a part of.
3. Be the DD.
Okay, let's be real, if you're going to party more often than not, you need to go to a party sober once. Just once. You need to get a feel for the party atmosphere before you dive head-first into it. There is a wide array of things that can go wrong at college parties, and you'll be more aware of those things if you observe them sober. And what better way to do that than being the party-mom/dad for just one night? Bonus: Your friends will LOVE you for helping them out with this one.
4. Walk around downtown.
My friend and I did this late in our freshmen year, and we both agreed we should have done it sooner. Between cute little antique stores to comfy coffee shops, there are tons of hidden gems in your local downtown.
5. Start an exercise routine that you can keep up.
The freshmen 15 is real. Let me repeat: THE FRESHMEN 15 IS REAL. Your campus most likely has an exercise facility and/or gives you access to your local YMCA. Use it. You're paying for it anyway. It will make you feel better, look great, and relieve all sorts of stress.
6. Walk around campus at sunset when no one is around.
It's breathtaking. (especially in the fall!)
7. Write letters to one of your friends at home.
This one is hard to keep up, but it's so nice to get actual mail in your mailbox every once in a while. Plus, it's super fun to fill in your friends from home about all of your college drama and hear all about theirs. You'll have all sorts of hilarious letters to read a few years down the road too.
8. Try a new style.
Wanted to dye your hair for a while? Do it. Who's stoping you? Make a bad fashion choice or two, no one will bat an eye. Everyone is trying to find themselves right now. Who knows, you might actually like that new haircut.
9. Volunteer.
This one was easier for me because I joined two service-oriented organizations, but get our into your college's community and do some work. It's peaceful, relaxing, and humbling, which is exactly what all college students need. Plus, who knows what kind of connections you'll make (hello, job opportunities!).
10. Stay up all night and just talk.
Find a random group of people you like and sit in the lobby with them all night and just talk about life. I did this on several occasions, one of which was the night I met my current boyfriend. Getting to know new people and listening to life experiences is great for college freshmen in a new environment.
11. DON'T FREAK OUT SO MUCH.
I know his transition seems huge, but it's not so bad. Take a deep breath, smile, and don't take things too seriously. This is a time to focus on you and bettering yourself, so don't worry about what other people think. Accomplish all you can in your four years, because they will fly.
