There are many things I have learned just this semester that are both serious and sentimental. Here are a few.
Raising your hand in class immediately points you out as the freshman. Unless you see everyone else doing it, you just shouldn’t do it but no worries, everyone was in your position at some point.
A class of upperclassmen actually isn’t too bad. I have actually learned a lot from them as they take their GenEd classes with me, and I am able to get a much wider point of view and tips on who I should take next semester for other GenEd classes. It is great as well when you are confused and see them just as confused. If definitely makes you feel less like an idiot.
Preview days are a prime time to go to the café. Go to lunch and dinner early when the lines aren’t as long and the food is made “fresher” (I put air quotes because I am still not quite sure on whether it is considered fresh).
One must always check their email before class as teachers sometimes just cancel on a whim because they don’t want to teach.
You need a planner because otherwise you are lost in a sea full of midterm times, sorority events, homework, essays and your work schedule.
The best place to study and 'attend' online classes is not in your bedroom. The bed is far too tempting.
Speaking of beds, naps are great and must also be frequently scheduled into your day. Remember: 20 minutes is enough time to take a solid nap.
Home cooked meals have never tasted so good.
Those nights of no homework are just a myth. There's no time to play around, you have to actually study.
Try new things. Take a class or two on something you are interested in. Who knows, you could end up falling in love with that subject.
You have to put time and effort into your friendships when your friends go to different colleges since you aren’t guaranteed to see them every day now.
At some point, you are going to trip in public and embarrass yourself. It is inevitable. It will either happen in front of everyone or no one will see it, but regardless your pride might be just a little bruised.
Take the time to visit with family and call your parents.
When times get rough, just know your Tuesday/Thursday classes don’t know what you wore on your Monday/Wednesday/Friday classes.
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OFFICE HOURS.
Take on all college has to offer, even if you never expected yourself to ever be doing half of the things you are trying- like Greek life.
Be open minded. In college, everyone is coming from so many different points in life and with so many different ideas. Learn from them and always be willing to listen.
Little messes become huge messes in a small, square dorm room very quickly.
It is perfectly okay to make best friends in college. Don’t think about it as if your abandoning your best friends from high school because you aren’t. Those people have seen and loved you through your past and these people get to love you through these times. You can have both.
Coffee can get quite expensive.
The Freshman 15 is a very real thing (guys, I have Jeni’s and Sprinkles within walking distance).
Immerse yourself into college. You can’t have one foot in college and the other foot in high school. But hey, what do I know I am just a freshman, remember?
