They say hindsight is 20/20 and looking back on my college experience with a graduation date quickly approaching, I couldn't agree more with this sentiment. The outlook for a senior and an incoming freshman is something of night and day. Many doe-eyed freshman cannot see past the exciting horizon of new book bags and dorm decor. If they only knew right behind it is a tidal wave of all nighters, coffee and sometimes tears coming their way. Man, do I wish I knew then what I know now.
I wish I had looked at getting great grades like it was a job since day one. While grades aren't your final say so on your entire future, your letter grade can open doors for grants/scholarship, honor societies and opportunities like study abroad trips. Some internships even have a minimum GPA requirement to be considered eligible. Don't sell yourself short and close doors you didn't know were there with motto's like, "D's get degrees." You will thank yourself later.
I wish I was more involved with my college. Looking back, I was "too busy" to participate in school social events or join an interest group on campus. I missed out on many great chances to meet like-minded people and build connections. You spend a good bit of your young adult life at your college campus, why not make the most of it by exploring all of it's opportunities.
I wish I had understood the importance of internships and what they offered. I thought getting good grades was enough to land my dream job post college. I have learned over the years it's just not that simple. Many employers want hands on experience with a skill that you can bring to the table even though you haven't even received your diploma in the mail yet. Consequently, internships are the missing link for many graduating students looking for jobs. Take internships now, even as a freshmen during the summers, to bring something to the table during the interview. The competitive job hunt will come faster than you think.
I wish I had learned to sit some things out. Freshmen especially suffer from FOMO If you aren't sure what that is, it's a serious case of fear of missing out. It's tragic, and it's real. Many freshmen are away on their own for the first time and are in a craze of newfound freedom. Don't forget it's okay to say no sometimes to a party or a get together. You can't be everywhere doing everything. You bank account and GPA will thank you later for turning some opportunities down.
I wish I had realized I was still becoming the person I am today. The person who started college and the person who will walk across the stage are so different in so many ways. I have loved and lost some friends along the way because we both changed during this time of our lives. But I also gained new ones and that's okay.
And finally, I wish I had took more time to appreciate this phase of life and especially the beginning when I started as a freshmen. Everything seemed to go at such a fast pace whether it be wishing finals were over or dreading the end of fall break but I wonder if I could've stopped and smelled the roses a little longer. One day, I know looking back I'm going to miss this and wish I had it back. Except the finals, won't miss those.
