I knew I'd learn lots about science, about being independent and about meeting new friends quickly in college. However, I certainly learned some things that I never would have expected. So, if you're gearing up for your freshman year of college, expect the unexpected, and embrace it with open arms. As my freshman year comes to a close, here are some things that I have learned that I would have never thought I would.
1. Your sleep habits really do change in college. Contrary to what I expected would happen, I became a super morning person in college. Who knew?
2. When you make time for things other than academics, you actually do better in your academics. Life's all about balance, and without a balance, you'll burn out. Fast.
3. You really do meet some crazy people and see some crazy things in college. I'm walking out of this year with tons of insane stories.
4. You will change your mind. I was dead set on my human biology major. I switched to neuroscience, and I haven't looked back.
5. Laundry is not easy to keep up with, no matter how many times you tell yourself you will do it once a week.
6. Eating healthy in college isn't too hard. I expected to have a lot of trouble, but if you work at it, you can do it.
7. That being said, eating ice cream at 1 a.m. while studying is a thing, and it will happen.
8. There's a magic in finding a perfect study spot.
9. You will mess up, a lot, without your parents' help. I mean a lot. It's all just about learning.
10. Finals week is really as tough as everyone makes it out to be. I honestly thought people were just exaggerating. But, if you put in the work during the semester, it is doable.
11. You become closer to your parents when you aren't living at home.
12. Nobody is going to agree with you on everything, even if it has always seems like people have in the past. As long as you are strong in what you do, believe, and say, that is all you can do.
13. Never, ever plan on printing something less than an hour before its due. Especially if you're using a school printer.
14. You won't stay in contact with everyone you expected to, and that's okay.
15. What is considered procrastinating in high school is just plain old impossible to pull off in college.
16. You don't have to try to look perfect every single day. People are busy, and people get that.
17. Taking risks (healthy risks) almost always pays off. If you're wondering whether or not to do it, just do it. And if it doesn't work, move on.
18. Help is always there if you just ask for it.
19. Office hours are a must.
20. Sometimes, you just deserve a break.
21. Take things as they come. Saying yes one extra time than you are comfortable with will usually surprise you.
22. FOMO is so real, but it happens to everyone. Sacrifices have to be made.
23. However, memories aren't made in the library.
24. I know exactly why they say that these are the best four years of your life.
Good luck to all of you who are soon-to-be college students. My freshman year was absolutely incredible, and I hope yours is too!
