College is often referred to as a growing experience, and it most certainly is.
Although I have only been in college for a short three months, I have learned more about myself than I ever could have imagined. Going to college, especially going away from home, is similar to being launched into the real world without anyone holding your hand, like it should be. I was forced to do EVERYTHING on my own, something I definitely was not used to growing up with parents who basically handled everything up until the day I moved into my dorm. This was an eye-opening experience, but one I would definitely not go back in time and change.
One major thing I realized once I got to school is that I am the sole person responsible for all of my actions. Everything I do has consequences, or rewards, but they are only a result of my own actions. Yes, I talk to my parents every day and ask them for advice, but that can only go so far when I am the only one who can actually make the changes and put in the effort for my goals. In the end, it is only I that can truly achieve the goals and aspirations I have, everyone else is just on the sideline watching me and giving me little tips along the way.
Every college student can agree, that sometimes we question whether or not we can handle the stress. Stress in college is inevitable. Professors have short, four month-or-so spans to cover a vast amount of material, thus requiring extensive amounts of outside work. Adjusting to this is vital in succeeding in college, and preparing yourself for the future. This is why mastering time management is key to success, and something all college students definitely struggle with. I realized that you must sometimes give up going out with friends one night, or watching that extra episode of Netflix to study. Every thing you do from now until graduate school, or any profession, your grades and involvement in extracurriculars is key.
I cannot stress enough how important it is to be involved in extracurriculars, both on campus and off campus. Being involved is such a great way to meet people, and a great way to distract yourself from stresses with schoolwork. Going to club meetings or events is a great way to cope with stress as it allows you to just take a break from all the schoolwork and be with people you resonate with.
To conclude, college is the best time of one's life. You will meet so many amazing people and find people you truly connect with. There will be times where you are stressed, but in the end they are worth it when you get that A, or 4.0 at the end of the year. Although, college is definitely going to be a growing period and learning experience. Even after the short three months of being at school I already recognize how much I have changed and matured as a person.
