11 Pieces Of Advice For Incoming College Freshmen | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Health and Wellness

11 Pieces Of Advice For Incoming College Freshmen

Stay away from the all-day breakfast and pizza.

19
11 Pieces Of Advice For Incoming College Freshmen
www.buzzfeed.com

I have been out of school for a little over a week. In this time, I have found myself reflecting upon the time between which I graduated high school and now. My freshman year at college has consisted of a plethora of experiences, all of which have shaped me into who I am today. But, I learned 11 things in specific that have stood out to me immensely that I think will help you, freshmen.

1. You have to step outside of your comfort zone.

This could be a given, especially since going to college is basically a leap outside of one's comfort zone, but it still reigns true. College is uncomfortable a lot of the time, especially the first couple weeks of your first semester, due to the fact that you are adjusting to a new life and new people. But, even as you go on later into the semester and second semester, keep stepping outside of your comfort zone because you never know what opportunity you could snatch up.

2. Get involved.

I know, everybody says it. But it is the truth! You have to get involved because it makes your campus experience so much more worthwhile. No matter what it is, just do it! If you are like me, you will get too involved, which can become a problem, but do it anyway!

3. Don't be afraid to quit.

This absolutely is something that needs to be said. Like I mentioned, I did get extremely involved, which became an issue when I realized I didn't want to do something anymore. If you are not getting fulfillment out of something or it is extremely stressing you out to a point that is not healthy, don't do it anymore. Save yourself the anxiety and just quit. It could be hard because of friends, but they will understand. Trust me, it is worth it for the sake of your happiness.

4. You will find your "homies."

I mean it. One of my biggest fears heading into college was finding the right group of people. This is because I go to one of the nation's largest party schools, yet I don't like to party. I thought that I would be the only person like this out of thousands of students, but that is absolutely untrue. I found my people, you will find yours.

5. Make time for yourself.

This is something I wish I would have done more, honestly. As a semi-introverted person, college was a lot for me, because you are around people all of the time, unless you don't have a roommate. But, you just have to take little moments of your day to just be with yourself. Otherwise, being around the same people 24/7 can get a little chaotic.

6. You will feel self-centered, but that's OK.

Now, I know I just said I wish I would have made more time for myself, but in college, I felt extremely self-centered. Not in a horrible way, but just because college feels like a bubble. I just felt as though I neglected my parents and high school friends, none of which ever said anything, but I just felt like I did. And that is OK. These people will still love you no matter what at the end of the day.

7. It's OK to not know what you're doing.

Let me reiterate this... it is OK to not know what you are doing. If we are being honest, the person who seems extremely perfect and put together has no idea what they are doing. Nobody does. I have had people tell me they think my life is together, when really I have no idea what I'm doing. Which is OK because, like I said, nobody else knows either. We are all just getting on by.

8. Don't be afraid to change your major.

Even if you are dead set going into school knowing exactly what you are going to do, your mind might change. I thought I was going to go into Journalism, yet I am switching to Media Arts and Studies. Do what makes you happy. Don't be afraid to change, and don't let anyone tell you what you should pursue. That is your own decision.

9. Dorms aren't the end of the world.

Sure, they can be gross or small, but they really aren't that bad. Just deal with it and don't make a big deal about it.

10. Stay away from the all-day breakfast and pizza.

Honestly, you will thank me later.

11. Gaining weight is inevitable.

This may not hold true for everyone, but I think it is bound to happen. It may not be exactly the freshman 15, but don't be surprised if you gain a little bit. Like I said, stay away from the fatty foods. And if you end up gaining a little and don't like it, change that. Do yourself a favor and transform yourself into who you want to be!

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

16594
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

7110
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

5240
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

4592
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments