Ah, freshman year. It feels like yesterday … well, because it kinda was. Going into my sophomore year, I sit here and think about how much a year can change your life entirely. I can’t help but want to give some incoming college freshmen a few tricks of the trade.
I might not have perfected freshman year (understatement of the century), but I think I know a few things that might be worth sharing:
1. Okay, ladies, listen up. Here’s the hard truth: please do not fall for the first cute, older boy, who gives you attention and makes you feel special. I hate to be the one to break this to you, but you’re probably not special. Now, of course, this doesn't go for everyone - there are some great guys out there - but college boys are a breed of their own. Your first month away from home, it can be so easy to get wrapped up in that boy you met at the party whom you now text constantly and hangout with all the time. It’s a whole new experience and its great, but, generally, only for a little while. I beg of you to at least proceed with caution and keep your options open! You don’t want to be hung up on the same guy all year, crying in the middle of the bar when you see him with other girls. Trust me on this one, my friends.
2. You don’t always need to take advantage of the "all you can eat" perk at the dining hall. Although it is great on those rough Sunday mornings or when you’re having a particularly hard day, just try not to make it a habit. Stick to the healthier options, you’ll thank me later.
3. Do. Not. Get. Behind. College starts off easy, you think you’ve got everything under control and going out 4 nights a week is no problem. And before you know it you're up to your ears in work and the first mental breakdown commences. Avoid this! Stay caught up, do your work before going out. It will save you so much stress and your grades will thank you.
4. GET INVOLVED. Rush a sorority! Greek life’s not for you? Great, join a club! Play an intramural sport, anything you can think of. Sitting in your room all day is the absolute worst thing you can do. I saw too many people not get involved, have an awful first semester, and then regret it later. Even if you sign up for a club you don’t think you’ll stick with, you’ll meet new people and it’s something to get you out of your dorm, so it’s worth it!
5. Don’t be afraid to change your major. Going to college, I had it all planned out. I mean, I literally had a 10-year plan, I'm telling you, it was really very specific. Lo and behold, one month later I switched from pre-med to political science (big difference, I know). I was completely terrified at being back to square one with no plan whatsoever. Just keep in mind that if it makes you happy, then do it. Everything will work itself out, you don’t always need a plan!
6. My last tip, PLEASE, do not blow through all your money in the first couple of months. You know that money you still have from your graduation party or that money you saved from working all summer. I made the mistake of managing to spend all of that in the first month on absolutely ridiculous things. I mean, I had a meal plan for a reason. But having to beg your parents for money and saving every last dollar for the rest of the year is not a good feeling. Spend it wisely; the whole “broke college kid” is no joke, let me tell you.
If you’re still reading and haven’t run for the hills, try keeping these things in mind in your first month or so in this new world. College is amazing, it will absolutely be the best four years of your life, but it is a roller coaster. Freshman year is particularly difficult, adjusting from being away from home and meeting new people is not easy. But these new people will be the best people you’ve ever met, and these crazy days will be the most memorable. Enjoy every second; before you know it you’ll be the one sitting and thinking about all the regretful (but great) memories of freshman year.
Welcome to college!
