We've all had to do it. No matter where or when it was, writing a letter to your freshman self is a classic way to self-reflect. It's never until the end of the year that you realize just how much everyone has changed over time.
Starting out my freshman year here at Florida State I didn't expect myself to change as much as I have. Freshman year is an experience like no other, and I truly believe it's everyone's chance to start over and find themselves. So here are just a few of the tips I would've told myself before I started my freshman year.
1. Take a chance and try new things.
This is your chance to find what you love and who you want to be, so take advantage of that. The number of organizations and clubs on campus are ridiculous, there's literally something for everyone. There's no harm in trying something new because you don't know if it's for you unless you try.
2. Physical and mental health are equally important.
No matter how many or how little activities you get involved with you will be busy. College classes take time and effort, it's not like high school where you can complete all your homework and slide by with an "A". Therefore, there will be work and sometimes that work will hit you all at once, so it is important to remember your own health. Entering freshman year this is your first time taking care of yourself with no one else guiding you in the right direction. Sure your parents or guardians stay in touch and call to check in, but they aren't there to make sure you eat, or drink water, or sleep enough, or study for an exam, or get out into the sunshine. There are so many simple things that we forget about and overlook because we've had that guardian figure in our lives making sure we did them.
3. Don't be afraid to be yourself.
In college, there are no "cliques". You are not defined by the one or two things you are involved with; you are defined by simply who you are. Since it is a fresh start find yourself and express it!
4. Everything will work out.
If you're a worry wart like me this one's an important one. Do not stress out. As long as you work hard and be yourself everything will work out. Even if the first year is a failure, hey you've got at least another three to fix it!
5. Slow it down.
This is the one tip that I wish I had realized the most. They always tell you "Those will be the best years of your life and they fly by". I'm not sure about the best years of my life part, but let me tell you they don't just fly by they are gone before you could even say, freshman. So enjoy yourself. Take it all in and remember these years are all yours.
