I've (sort of) accepted the fact that instead of waking up at 6 a.m. for a tailgate, I will soon be waking up at 6 a.m. for work. Looking back as a senior, there are some things I know now that I wish I knew as a freshman.
1. Don't stay stuck in high school.
Staying in touch with your high school friends is a good thing, but don't let your high school relationships hold you back from meeting new people your first year of college.
2. Take advantage of your college town.
Four years go by fast, take advantage of everything your college town has to offer. Try every restaurant, go to free events, walk around and explore.
3. Sleep is important.
There are going to be times where you'll be in the library until the sun rises writing a 12-page research paper. Grades are definitely important, but your sanity is more important!
4. Take a few classes that actually interest you.
It sounds cheesy, but you only have four years of your life where you can have a little bit of freedom when it comes to learning. If you can, take a class that sounds exciting - it makes it more enjoyable to put in the effort.
5. The professor is more important than the actual class.
Make sure you know a little bit about your professor before taking a class. Even if a class sounds interesting, the professor will dictate whether or not you'll have a good experience.
6. Get real experience early on.
Internships are so important later on in your college career. It's hard to get an internship or know exactly what you want to do without any prior experience.
7. Everyone is different.
Understand that everyone has their own study habits, manages time differently, and enjoys going out more or less than you do. Don't compete or compare yourself to anyone else, or you will drive yourself crazy.
8.College relationships come and go.
College is full of falling in love and breaking up. If you find yourself in a relationship or getting out of one, don't let that dictate your happiness.
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9. Call your parents when you need to vent.
Don't forget about your family back at home- they're your biggest supporters. When you feel like everything is going wrong, sometimes it's best to hear from someone who is removed from it all.
10. Don't stress.
Everything always works itself out eventually - always remember to enjoy yourself.