School is right around the corner. Everyone is frantically trying to buy their books, and figure out who's bringing what to the dorm. Last minute emails to the advisors are being sent, and every college student is waiting in anticipation for move in day. I myself have been counting down the days until the beginning of my second year of school. Some of my friends though, will only be freshmen this year, and many of them have told me about how nervous they are. I too, like many of us out there, was nervous for the first year. In reality it was only a year ago, but to me it feels like a lifetime. One thing I do know though, is the person I was a year ago probably needed to hear a few things before walking in that first day. So to all those freshmen out there, here's a few pieces of advice from somewhere who has already been through the freshmen year first day:
1. Quality over quantity.
Don't get me wrong, go out and make some friends because they're going to have your back these next few years. Don't be making them for the fame though. You are going to be having some very high points, and some very low points, so make sure the people you have around for those are people you feel deserve to be there.
2. Don't join 3765 clubs.
Get involved, it really is a wonderful thing but you can't be a hundred places at once without going crazy.
3. Your studies will fall into place.
Lots of people worry about their major and choosing the right one. Coming from someone who themselves has struggled picking the right thing to study, I promise when the time is right you will know. Until then though, take classes that interest you and explore any possibility.
4. The "night before" method doesn't fly.
Start planning and don't throw your school work under the bus. This isn't high school, remember that.
5. Timing is everything.
Space your activities out. Study here, relax here and ultimately don't overwhelm yourself because here's the thing:
6. You need to prioritize.
You can't do everything. As hard as you try, there is a limit to the amount of things you can do. Remember, your school work is the ultimate priority, anything else must come second. You can't compromise your work either so try this;
7. Planning, it's good, but sometimes you need to improvise.
Sounds backwards I know, but it's 100% true. Plan out your days, but remember things can change in a heartbeat, so be on your toes.
8. Put yourself out there.
College is a big brand new world so don't be afraid of a little spotlight. Try new things and see where you fit. Not everything will be perfect, but you'll be proud of yourself for getting out there.
9. Don't let one class pull your focus from others.
Every student has those certain classes they struggle in. Something I personally learned the hard way was that one class will not define your overall semester. Yes it's important to work harder in the classes you have a tough time in, but don't forget about the other ones you are taking. Don't let other grades slip because you are so focused in on one.
10. Be prepared to grow up.
The person you are at the beginning of the school year will not be the person that walks out in the end. You are going to grow up in many different ways, but not all the way. So yes, be prepared to start feeding yourself and doing the laundry, but there will be also plenty of time to enjoy your youth.
Good luck to everyone on their upcoming school year, I know you are going to rock it!