15 Things I Learned From Freshman Year Of College
Anyone who has survived their freshman year of college can probably remember how nervous and excited they were during orientation week. You are meeting new people, getting lots of different information on classes, and trying to adapt being on your own. Out of all the countless life lessons learned, here are a few standouts to prepare incoming freshmen.
1. Don’t overpack.
I know it’s exciting to decorate your dorm or first apartment, but trust me when I say that bring as little as possible. Your room will be too overcrowded with all of your things and your roommates’ things. Not to mention, you are probably going to go shopping throughout the year. And if you are an out of state student like me, moving out with a lot of belongings makes things more stressful and difficult. So try to limit what you bring–you will see you will most likely not use all of it anyway.
2. Everyone is kind of faking it, especially at the beginning.
It is easier said than done, but try not to be too nervous at first! You are not the only one who is freaking out on the inside, believe me.
3. Be yourself.
College is amazing because finally you are able to follow a path that you want to take. There are so many people coming from different backgrounds with different tastes and preferences. As long as you are yourself and stay true to what you like and believe in, you will find your solid group of friends.
4. Learn to face conflict in a mature way.
Whether its with friends or your roommates, it is likely that at some point you won’t see eye to eye. Instead of causing a huge fight, try to solve the issue by talking to the person and see where you two can meet in the middle.
5. Speak now or forever hold your peace.
This is mostly when it comes to your roommates. From the beginning of your freshman year of college you should lay out what you expect in your room and what you cannot tolerate. As things come up, address them immediately. Otherwise, you will think that it is too late and you will find yourself stuck in a situation you aren’t happy in.
6. Introduce yourself to your professors on the first day of class.
This is the first step in establishing a positive relationship with your professors which will then make it easier for you to ask them for help in the future. Also, you never know if those good relationships could lead to a letter of recommendation or internship.
7. Feed your body with healthy foods.
Someone last semester told me that in order to be a happy and healthy person, you should feed yourself happy and healthy foods. Although I also think that it is good to treat yourself one in a while, try to stay conscious of your body’s health.
8. Write down all the important phone numbers of different campus resources.
You will probably have a bunch of phone numbers and campus resources during orientation, so make sure you keep track of it all. While you may think you will never need to use any of those resources, you or your friend may find yourselves needing it in the future.
9. Schedule one fun thing everyday.
Whether it is 30 minutes of Netflix or painting your nails, a little fun activity is something to look forward to after a hectic day. You deserve it after all that studying!
10. Make some alone time.
This is so important because in college you will constantly be surrounded by people during your freshman year of college. Even though I am a people-person, my “me time” is very valuable. It could even be just taking a walk by yourself or going to a coffee shop and getting a cappuccino on your own. It is a nice detox from being with people practically 24/7.
11. You don’t have to be best friends with your roommates.
In fact, sometimes it is better that way. You may find that you guys will become close friends anyways, but don’t try to force a friendship. Sometimes not being BFFs is nice because there will be times where you need a break from your friend group and your roomie will be there to hang out. Or maybe you need some advice from an outside perspective. Either way, do not fret if you and your roommate(s) aren’t besties.
12. Being there for others is important, but care for yourself first.
College is a rollercoaster. There will be ups and downs for everyone. You will find that you may become the shoulder that your friends cry on, which is ok, but don’t forget to take care of yourself too. Don’t drain yourself so that you can be there for others. Put on your oxygen mask before helping others (figuratively, of course)!
13. Call your parents.
I know you want to feel all grown up, but don’t forget the people who sacrificed a lot so that you could be in college. Give them a call from time to time even if it’s just to say hi.
14. Be careful who you trust.
This is mostly for first semester. Just because you may hit it off with people at first does not mean you will be close for the rest of college. You don’t always get to see people’s true colors until much later, unfortunately. So be careful what you say or do around people you don’t fully know.
15. Finish any assignment or project ASAP.
You have probably heard this countless times, but we are all guilty of it. Procrastination will be your worst enemy. Don’t leave things until last minute. It is much better to space out all your work so that you can finish it on time at your best efforts instead of being rushed. (And this is much better to practice during your freshman year of college than senior year!)
