I see college to be the point in your life where you get the opportunity to start fresh. It's like the point in middle school when you were finally allowed to change your bedroom theme from barbie pink walls, to what you thought was more grown up. Moving out you get to do it all over again, except this time it's not just the color of your walls your changing, it's your whole life.
You get to make the big decisions for yourself and decide what it right and wrong. Your parents just sit back and hope you've taken all of the yelling and frustration to thought about keeping your room clean and loading the dishwasher at night. I know personally what my parents have trained my habits and routines to be will have a huge impact on the way I live. As much as I've tried to deny how similar my mom and I are, I've come to realize what a blessing it really is. My mom is like the perfect person and not only does facebook auto tag me as her in pictures; whenever we're apart I start to realize how much alike we are. All the things she's nagged me about, I'm grateful for because apparently without her I would be a slob who never turned her homework in on time. Both of my parents have taught me so, so much and I feel like I am somewhat ready for crazy life adventure on my own.
To all of the awesome teachers, coaches, family friends and of course my amazing parents that have ever given me live advice throughout the years, thank you! I know everyone goes through different experiences and paths in life but I think that's what becomes so helpful. So here are the 12 pieces of advice I hope to start my new journey with.
Don't be afraid of change This whole entire process is about change so take in everything and use it to learn from. For me, moving to California is one of the scariest and most exciting parts. I'm scared to leave all of my family in Texas, but I know that I wouldn't be as happy with my decision if I did anything else. I'm so grateful to have my family's support... and California, I'm ready for you!
Stop caring so much about what others think of you Throughout High School this is something that becomes a challenge for almost everyone. You're scared of what people think of you, and you let the words of others bring you down. Make college different, it's the time to learn about yourself and grow into the person you're meant to be. Stop worrying about what others think and start worrying about the people who love you for who you are. Because in the end those who love you will always see the best in you, even when you can't see it for yourself.
Don't waste time in one-sided relationships Don't waste your time on people who are not there for you. If you're doing all of the work in the relationship it will eventually turn toxic. College is the time to really be yourself and make friends who love you for you!
Never give up Classes WILL be hard, motivation WILL be lacking, being away from your family WILL be tough, but you're going to school for a reason, so stick with it to the bitter end. It will be worth it for obvious reasons in the long run.
Do some good As a young adult it's your chance to so something good for the world, start a group on campus, volunteer in the community, do good and good will come your way.
Do your best to find the silver lining in negative situations Everyone runs into hardships or low patches in life, learn to grow from every situation good or bad, because negativity isn't helping anyone in the situation, and what doesn't kill you makes you stronger.
Enjoy your work If you don't enjoy what you doing you're setting yourself up for a challenging life. Figure it out now, not 20 years down the line. While earning your degree you may have grown up with your perfect dream job in mind, but if it doesn't turn out as expected, network and find something that you will not only enjoy, but also help you grow as a person. If you have an open mind the world is yours.
Only spend what you have Living on a college budget is challenging, ask any adult how years of ramen noodles and frozen food was. Yes, you may be dying for those new shoes and that new trendy bathing suit that cost more than your college textbook. But DON’T give in. Of course, it's nice to do something good for yourself every now and then, but don't break the bank in the process.
Surround yourself with happy people High school is hard, you may think there are a ton of kids in your class, and you still don't understand how 12 years later you only made it through with 3 close friends. But trust me universities are a whole new ball game. Have high standards when it comes to who you surround yourself with because the friends you could possibly make will be there for you for life.
Stay mindful I mean this in a bunch of ways, try not to judge people straight off the bat, take the happy moments, think about others feelings, and never forget why you're there(You're oh so expensive education of course).
Challenge yourself Set goals for yourself, and don't rely on other people to give you the answers. Take on a new job or internship, network with others for a future career, you never know if you don't try! Classes can be challenging, and just balancing out your schedule can be a nightmare, but just remember, it has been done, and everything will work out if you fully apply yourself.
Keep your room clean (This one was added for all the moms out there) Keeping your room clean is the most important thing of all! You don't want your roommate to have to deal with your mess, and it's not healthy to live in a pigsty! Wash your dishes, clean your bathroom, and do your laundry! Your mom's not going to be there to help you with all of this, but she's trained you for this point with high expectations! And well, if you simply don't have time, at least hide the evidence of your caustic life when she comes to visit.
