1. You have to go to an orientation
It's kind of like a mandatory thing to do... you know, to learn everything that you read about online. This is where they show you the "fun parts" about college life to lure you in.
2. Everyone wants to be nice and be your friend, in the beginning
After "welcome week" where freshmen and transfers are accepted and are now students everyone is happy. You look for friends to have fun with at school because its so new to you and your friends went to a different school. So you'll have like 1,000 friends, until they drop like flies due to arguments and other crazy things as you matriculate further.
3. You now have a chance to pick your own schedules
Maybe your high school did this, but mine didn't. I was finally able to choose a major that I wanted to pursue and then choose courses that interest me... or were required. *rolls eyes*
4. Someone on campus is always trying to turn up and throw a party
There's bound to be some type of fun happening on your campus each day. Just don't become best friends with the one who continues to throw parties because you will regret it during midterm and finals week when you're wondering why you can't stay awake to finish it.
5. Peer pressure is real
It's a billion things going on, and a billion people from all over. Your parents or guardians aren't there to watch or baby you. You're like a total adult now, kind of. "C'mon, it's college." Need I say more?
6. Everyone has a chance to belong somewhere; in various organizations
There should be organizations, affiliations, and associations for you to join. They each have a different purpose. Attending an org fair is a must so that you can find which campus club/org is right for you.
7. Services are available for help
If you need someone to confide in, there are counseling services available for you. If you need career advice check out your student center and see what they have to offer for that.
8. The numerous group chat messages will drive you crazy
Oh. Em. Gee. Before college, I've never experienced active group chats. iMessage group chats and GroupMe has taken over my life. I'm not sure if its because I know too many people, or that I'm apart of too maby things but my phone just won't stop dinging. It's come to a point where I just mute all of the chats because the constant notifications and noise gives me anxiety. I can't.
9. Books can sometimes be more expensive than your iPhone, if you're lucky
Books are hella' expensive in college, I know you've heard that before. They can range from $10-$300 at your local bookstore. Too much! I would suggest purchasing at a cheaper price online, If possible.
For the past two semesters I have successfully went without buying all of my books. Okay, maybe I had get one or two, but they were under $60 each. Typically, its best to wait until the second week of the semester to decide whether your professor will really use the book, or just will use it for one page. Totally hate that.
10. You will debate with yourself at least one morning on whether you really need to attend that 8 A.M. class
We've all been there before. College isn't all fun and games. There's the dreaded 8 A.M. class. Which is usually a required course because i'm sure you didn't willingly pick it-unless you're nuts. Morning classes are cool, but beginning at 8 AM?? Do you know what I could be doing at that time? Eating breakfast. Waking up. Lounging in bed. Getting dressed.
11. There aren't any proms, but there's a graduation to look forward to
There may not be any proms, but there are other things to get glammed up for, like job interviews, career fairs, and senior pictures. Sounds like adulting right?
The journey may seem short at the end so just live in the moment while everything is happening. "C'mon, this is college."