Whether you're staying on campus at your college or commuting, college is a completely different world from high school. So, here's some guidance.
1. You are not alone.
Depending on the size of your university, there are potentially thousands of other freshmen who are low-key freaking out on their first night there. It's great — don't think it won't be — but, it's also scary as heck. Make friends. You will keep some and phase through others, but they will be your family away from family.
2. Join a club or organization.
It sounds lame, but, trust me, there is something on campus you are interested in and you will find amazing people at meetings. Again, "Family away from family." Plus, it's good to have on your resume.
3. Roommates.
Colleges try their absolute best to match you with people you are compatible with, but sometimes they get it wrong. You may have a roommate you care for or you may not care for them at all. Either way, if you're super uncomfortable with living with them for nearly nine months, you can request a room change. Don't wait it out and risk ruining your freshman year. Just move on.
4. Go to every class.
Professors do notice that you're not there frequently. When you need their help at the end of the semester with a final paper, they might not be so nice.
5. The freshman 15 is REAL.
You'll always be on the go as a freshman trying to be where it's happening. Unless you have tons of money, you won't get gourmet meals every day and night. I'm not saying don't eat but, don't just live off chicken fingers and french fries for nine months. It won't end well.
6. Make your room your own.
Every school is different, but for the most part you can decorate your space without putting holes in the walls. Your small cramped room won't be fun unless you make it.
7. Nobody is there to remind you to do your assignments.
Stay organized and don't wait until the last minute. It's so easy to get into the habit of not going to class and not doing all of your assignments. It's all fun and games until your GPA is below the requirement.
8. If you're staying on campus, DO NOT pack everything.
There are tons of checklists online to help you figure out what to bring. You don't have a ton of space, so use it wisely.
9. People don't know you there.
Don't assume people know how "you roll." Enter every encounter with someone else as if they are supposed to be your best friend. Be respectful and establish a character of yourself that people will know you by.
10. Experience.
Should you put your school work before anything else? Absolutely, but make sure you can maintain your social life and schooling at the same time. Don't let one outweigh the other. Create a balance between the two. Take breaks, go grab something to eat with your roommate, go hang out, go out and experience as much as you can. Legally and safely of course.
There will be tons of events at your school, some even free. Go to them. In a few years, you'll have to be on your own indefinitely; enjoy it now. But, if all else fails, remember, if you come across anything free, it is for you. You're welcome.
