April showers bring May flowers, but they also bring the end of school for many students, both in college (except for those having a blast with summer classes, wahoo!) and high school. Surely, there is a huge amount of nostalgia around the pit of many seniors' stomachs, and it's an extremely bittersweet feeling leaving many people behind. But have no fear; the best is yet to come. Summer will pass in only a blink of an eye, and college will start again before anyone knows it, bringing new and old faces together and excitement for everyone. However, I know I was extremely nervous entering college, and was a bit overwhelmed by my surroundings when I got there. There are a few key things to remember when making such a big transition like this, and I am here to help.
First thing's first: enjoy graduating. It's is a memorable experience for the whole family, and a special moment that will last a lifetime. It's okay to cry with friends (I swear I didn't, but I was close…) and remember all the wonderful memories formed over the last four years. Don't let anyone bring you down; it is your big moment!
Summer is by far the best season of the year, and the one following senior year should be your best one to date. Take a spontaneous trip, enjoy the summer air, make some money, and take a few risks. Make sure to take time with family, friends, and all others you care about. That's right, I'm talking about spending time with your pets. They deserve love too, and they would appreciate a walk around the block every once in a while. Along with some long walks with man's best friend, I would start prepping for college early. Buy books, supplies, and read up on the campus so as not to get lost or confused. But don't forget: summer stands for fun, so live it up.
Okay, summer is over, and it's time for college; preceded by a lot of heartfelt goodbyes (I know I had my fair share). But there is always a storm before the rainbow. And in this analogy, college is the rainbow. As you move into your dorm and start to meet friends, it is easy to get homesick and miss those you left behind. However, staying in touch is easier than ever nowadays, and most colleges are so close, a weekend visit is very accessible. Get to know your hall mates first and make a good connection with your roommate. In my experience, having a roommate you get along with is the most important relationship as a first year in college. If you two are miserable, it may make part of your college experience miserable too.
In the first few weeks, enjoy yourself. I am not suggesting to go out and party it up if that isn't your thing. But don't sit in your dorm room moping and feeling sad! Experience what the school has to offer. There are so many opportunities for a fun day and night and the more things you do socially, the more friends you are guaranteed to meet. Join a club, make your own club (though I doubt that you won't be able to find one that is already in place), or find your passion. It is what college is for. If volunteer work is your thing, join a service club. If you like to sing, audition for an a capella group, form a band, or go solo. The beauty of college is that the experience is what you make of it.
As I think back to when I first started college, I remember how frightened I was and unprepared to take the next step. And as a short fellow like myself, big steps are hard to take. But eventually I found my footing and formed everlasting friendships. And I still keep in touch with my lifelong high school friends. It is okay to miss the past sometimes, and it is okay to be scared. But in order to move forward and onward, think positively, optimistically, and be excited. Because college will be the best four years of your life so far, and there are thousands around the country that will tell you the same thing. Go outside the box, and find out who you really are and want to be.
