It’s the summer before your freshman year of college and you just can’t wait to start your new adventure. Despite all of your excitement, you worry about what college will bring and what it’s going to be like. Transitioning to college can be overwhelming. However, if you prioritize and know what’s important to you then it’s not so bad. Here are a few things to know before going to college!
Yes, ladies please budget your money. Planning your budget wisely can give you the extra money for a night out with the girls or to buy a new coat that you’ve been eyeing. if you’re shopping online, make sure to use Studentrate and take advantage of student discounts. If you don’t handle your money well, then you may be left trying to piece together some change for a Happy Meal. Plan all of your expense—books, tuition costs, school supplies, etc.—so that you’re not left wondering how much money you have in your bank account.
As an entering freshman, you may, but probably won’t, get paired up with the roommate of your dreams. Keep an open mind about living with other people and be willing to make compromises. Stay Positive and try to get to know your roommates. You never know what kind of friendships may arise!
Get involved in a team or club. Dedicating some of your time to something that you enjoy will make you happy and there’s no better way to meet people that have similar interests! Getting involved in a club will allow you to connect with more people and will give you some time to dedicate yourself to an activity that you love.
Balancing your time will be one of the most important things that you learn at college. You’ll soon realize that you don’t have all the time in the world. Plan out all the important things like going to class, doing homework, and working on a research project but make sure to give yourself time to relax by yourself or hang out with friends. College goes by fast and you’ll always feel like you need more time—with friends, to do homework, or to just be alone. I like to use a reward system to keep myself on track to do my school work, if I get enough done I can take a break or do something fun with friend. Despite stressing about getting everything done, you need to make sure that you’re enjoying college and having fun!
Some people come to college knowing exactly what they’re going to study, while others need to take some time to figure it out. Whatever it is that you choose, make sure that it’s the right fit for you. Your major should be something that you love and enjoy and that you’ll feel comfortable working in this field in the future.
Self-expression is super important and the way you dress is one of the easiest ways to highlight your uniqueness. It’s easy to show up to class in a sweatshirt and sweatpants, 5 other girls in your lecture will probably be doing the same. But sweats don’t show off your sense of style, and they’re definitely not going to get you noticed. Have fun experimenting with your style at school, figure out what best suits you and embrace it.
As a freshman, you’re more than likely to have a meal plan. Depending on your school, the menu will vary. To make to most out of eating cafeteria food, try to mix and match—add some veggies from the salad bar to your pasta. It’s easy to get in a rut and always opt for pizza or head to the grill station, but you should be making health conscious decision. You’ll feel better from eating healthy foods and avoid a few extra pounds.
Safety is key on college campuses nationwide. Know where your public safety office is and who to call when you need help. Use the buddy system—I know, what is this elementary school? But it beats being somewhere alone and you’ll have someone to help keep you calm in a tough situation. Always pay attention to your surroundings and keep college security on speed dial, just in case.
Enjoy yourself! College is a wonderful time in your life that’s like no other. You should prioritize your work but you also need to have fun! Go out with your girls and live it up. College goes by fast, so enjoy it while you can and make amazing memories that will last a lifetime.
The most important piece of advice that I can give is to love yourself. College is the time to discover who you are and learn about what you love—embrace it. Sometimes you can lose sight of why you’re attending college in the first place. It may get hard but keep your head up and get that degree!
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