Hello, Freshman Year Me,
First of all, welcome to college! Wow, it's so big and beautiful and the world is full of possibilities! But let me tell you Past Me, Current You has seen some things and gained a little knowledge since your wide-eyed self-set foot on campus. Here are some things I wish I could've told you.
1. Tinder is not the be-all end-all of dating
I know you were always ashamed to have this app on your phone and promptly deleted it when you came home for the summer, but you should never feel compelled to re-download that app. You've found two great boyfriends without having to swipe right on them. The guys that you've found through Tinder? Yeah, less than favorable people. Just know your person will come at the right time.
2. You don't have to go to EVERY party you're invited to
Actually, knowing what you went through freshman year, it's probably better for your mental health if you stay home from most parties. You never were one to go out and drink your weight so don't feel you need to become that person. A night home watching a movie with a face mask on is just as much, if not MORE, fun than a night out.
3. Speaking of your mental health...
It is completely normal to go through a period of homesickness and you know Mom and Dad will gladly have you come home for a weekend if that's what it takes for you to be okay. You cannot let yourself get to a dark place because you'll stay there and let the darkness swallow you whole. Find help, reach out, and know you'll be okay.
4. Don't forget about the people who made you who you are
You'll want to distance yourself from your friends back home and will feel the need to shun anyone who tries to talk to you in favor of your 'new college life'. That will hurt more people than it helps, trust me. Your life at college and your life at home are not two separate things.
You don't just trade one life for another and become a totally new person, that's literally not how anything works. Stay in touch and be a friend to people at home and in college.
5. Grades. Do. Not. Matter.
Okay well, they matter in some respect, but you shouldn't feel compelled to get A's on everything like you did in high school. A B- or C+ every now and then isn't the end of the world. Have some fun in college and don't worry about getting the best grade in the class.
6. The Freshman 15 won't happen to you
You'll get lucky in this instance which is odd because time has proved that you're not a very lucky person! But all those scary stories you've heard about excessive weight gain aren't true in your instance. Keep eating your salads from that amazing Flint Dining Hall salad bar and you'll be just fine.
7. Do not become a different person...
Mature and grow, don't be childish and change. You don't need to lose who you are to have fun in college. Stay true to yourself and you'll be okay.
8. ...But have some fun before you die
As Christine from Simply Nailogical says, 'It's time to paint your nails and have some fun before you die." It's college! Get involved, make amazing friends, and do what will make you the happiest. There's no need to please anyone or be a certain person. Just be your fantastic self and I promise good people, opportunities, and hilarity will follow.
