College is right around the corner and you're about to embark on a four-year journey. I'm sure you've heard many tips from your campus tours, but here are some that you might give you a leg up on all of your other freshmen classmates.
1. Don't accept sweetgrass roses from the little boys
They'll tell you it's free then ask for a donation, also the basketball tournament story has never been confirmed. I kid you not, I once watched one of these boys ride his bike directly into traffic staring down the oncoming drivers. They fear nothing and no one.
2. Liberty Fresh Food Company is mediocre at best
Liberty will try and trick you for the first couple weeks but my roommate and I spent many a hungry night after "fresh food company" presented food that was anything but fresh (Bonus: if all else fails you can go to City Bistro and get a sandwich).
3. The best time for food is in the middle of class times
For example, 9:20 a.m. is a good time because classes have begun and won't be out for another 30 minutes or so.
4. Speaking of food, use your microwave properly
Unless you want hundreds of people hating you at one time, I HIGHLY suggest not trying to make Easy Mac without water at 2 a.m. OR MICROWAVING OREOS FOR 5 MINUTES FOR NO APPARENT REASON (photo provided above).
5. If you have not been warned yet, DO NOT CROSS THE CISTERN
Legend has it, if you cross the Cistern as an undergrad it will take longer than 4 years to graduate. I don't know about you but I can't afford that, financially or mentally. I won't even sit on the edges for fear of being cursed.
6. Bring a jacket to Addlestone Library
It doesn't matter what season it is, after an hour you will be cold. Every other time I go in I think I can make it, but I cannot. Don't be like me. Bring a sweater.
7. Go to at least one CAB event
Cougar Activities Board posts their events at the beginning of each semester. They range from craft nights to trips or Disney or Universal. These events are good ways to get free CofC merch and meet new people.
8. Explore downtown
There's a reason Charleston has been voted the top tourist destination in America and YOU get to live here.
9. Wear proper footwear
They call it the Charleston Shuffle for a reason. I know many people who have broken their flip flops on the brick sidewalks on campus (AKA every sidewalk on campus). Either work on your footwork or start stockpiling sandals.
10. Finally, get excited.
You're officially a College of Charleston student. Get ready for the next awesome four years at CofC.
GO COUGS!
