As an incoming Freshman, College can become extremely overwhelming. Even though you may not realize it, you will learn so many new things (and I'm not talking about in Psychology class.) Here are the top 15 things I learned my first semester!
1. You may not stay friends with your bestie from high school, and that's okay.
As a freshman, you'll have the opportunity to meet so many new people. New people in your dorm, in your classes, or even teammates. You will meet people who share the same interests as you do, and people that just intrigue you in general. You will probably find new friends in college, but don't be worried, so will your high school bestie.
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2. Live on Campus.
Living on campus is one of the best choices I have ever made. Being on campus not only allows you to get up fifteen minutes before class and still make it with two minutes to spare, but it also allows you to gain a sense of independence. Just don't use that new found independence to stay up until 2 am and eat your weight in ice cream.
3. Prop open your dorm door.
Keeping your door open allows for passing hall mates to say hi. I had a girl from England and her roommate stop in my room one time and we talked for almost an hour! They're super cool people!
4. Be kind to your roommate.
You very well could be stuck with your random roommate assignment from August to May. Make an effort to get along with the person you share a very small room with. On the other hand, sometimes roommates don't work out, that's okay too!
5. Get to know your professors outside of the classroom.
Even though your science professor may seem like the most boring, monotone person in the world, get to know them outside of class. You never know what kind of knowledge they can offer outside of the subject they teach.
6. Study hard, but don't fry your brain
Studying is a huge part of college. You need to know how to study and know when to study. But 24/7 is not the answer. Set aside a time in your day to study, then be sure to set aside some time to see your friends or just a break for your brain.
7. Even if your professor doesn't take attendance, go to class.
Everyone knows that 8 am classes suck, but failing your final because you didn't go to class sucks worse. You may think that extra hour of sleep is worth it, but you'll regret it when it comes time for an exam.
8. Go to events that your school hosts
Sitting alone in your dorm room alone is never any fun. Go out, get involved, and make new friends.
9. Sit with someone you don't know in the dining center.
Every once in a while, ask someone you don't know if you can sit with them at lunch. This will let you meet a new person on campus and learn something about them. You never know, they could become your best friend!
10. Don't forget laundry day
The last thing you want is to have to go to class in your most embarrassing pj pants.
11. Don't be afraid to explore different majors.
You may know exactly what you want to do your first semester, but I promise you will at least question it once. Or thirty-six times. Whichever one works for you.
12. Don't worry about public speaking.
Everyone will be just as nervous as you are. Not to mention, no one will remember what your speech said by next class.
13. Take as many pictures as you can.
Pictures are the best way to capture memories. College will be one of the most fun-filled times in your life. Cherish that, and remember it as vividly as possible.
14. If you snore, invest in Breathe Right strips.
You'll thank me when you sleep through the night because your roommate stops hitting you in the face with pillows.
15. Don't go home every weekend.
Enjoy your time at school. Stay on campus at least a few weekends a semester, but never neglect the family and friends you've left at home. They were there from the beginning.
