My parents drove away, and just like that I was in college. Thoughts of panic about the next four years (and the rest of my life...) swirled through my head. What if I’m not equipped to take on the world? I have (almost) survived the first semester and I’ve had time to reflect on what I have learned since that lonely first day. I’ve come to the realization that I am a lot more capable than I thought. So I’m taking this chance to share my list of the 10 things I’ve learned about myself in college. You, like me, will make it through just fine.
1. Stepping out of my comfort zone has never been so important.
Whether it’s raising my hand in class or asking a new friend to grab dinner sometime, going out on a limb always pays off. It does get easier.
2. Upperclassmen are not “scary” like they were in high school.
Students aren’t hung up on “Freshman” or “Senior” labels. Older students treat you as equals.
3. When the professor says read the chapter, I've learned to READ THE CHAPTER!
The material will be on the exam even if you haven’t covered it in class. You’re only short-cutting yourself.
4. Eating lunch by yourself is not embarrassing.
You may think everyone is staring and thinking that you have no friends. No one notices, no one cares.
5. Getting lost downtown is not that scary.
You’ve got Google Maps, right?
6. Laundry isn't difficult unless you put it off.
Mom was right (about everything). It's sadly a part of being an adult.
7. Motivation comes from within.
Push yourself to make the most of what college offers. Join that club, go to that party, volunteer. You are your biggest cheerleader, and your can-do attitude and positive vibes will help you break the ice.
8. You don’t have to have it all figured out.
Haven’t declared a major, applied for internships, or decided on your whole career? That’s okay. You can only “adult” so much in the first few months.
9. Comparing yourself to others won’t get you anywhere.
There are different opportunities and paths for everyone. Why spend time dwelling on others when you could be forging your own path?
10. There will always be people there to support you when you succeed and fail.
Remember that friends, family and even students you’ve just met will be there. We’re all in this together, and everyone wants you to flourish.
I hope you can take some comfort from the things I’ve learned in my first semester. Remember that if you’re scared, you can't just crumble in fear. We all experience our brief moments of panic, but we make it out alive. Not only is college the time to get to know people, ideas and experiences, but it's also the time to learn a lot about a very special person -- yourself. Like I did, you may just find that you are more ready than you think you are. Don’t be afraid to spread your wings; you truly are ready to fly.
