Even though, I have only been down here in Montgomery for a little over a month, I have learned a lot in these few weeks.
1. Going to bed before midnight is a miracle
In middle school and even high school, you might have had a "bed-time" in which you had to go to sleep. In college, we are lucky if we get to go to bed before 2 AM. From homework, to studying, to hanging out with your friends/ significant other, to sports and social clubs, it's going to be a great night if you actually tell yourself you're going to bed at a certain time.
2. Making the decision to hang out with friends or to study
Many will have to make the crucial decision to either go bowling on a Tuesday night, or to study for your big test the next day. Nine times out of ten, most Freshman will stay and study, but there's always that one percent that doesn't study at all. Words of Wisdom from me: "ALWAYS STUDY."
3. People and friends change and that's okay
You might come to school with ten friends or none, but either way, they will change no matter what. For the good, or the bad, or even the ugly, it's a natural thing to change our likes and dislikes as humans. It honestly isn't healthy or natural for us to have the same likes for 20 years. Whether your favorite color is blue now, it might be pink next month, and that's okay. Many people get so tore up about their friends being "different" or how they've "changed" so much, when in reality, they are just trying to figure out what kind of person they are trying to be. People at times forget that we have to figure out stuff for ourselves. Whatever happens in the end, it's going to be okay.
4. Get involved!
Incoming Freshman might come in and say "I am only focusing on my studies this year so I don't fail. I can always get involved next year." This is a BIG NO NO. As long as you are a student on campus, you need to get involved in something of some sort. Whether you join a social club or have a Work Study picking up trash, getting involved is key to having a great college experience. You will make so many more friends and connections this way, than to be cooped up in your bed all day watching Netflix. Even though doing that is relaxing, actually getting out and getting involved will make you feel so great and happy. You will truly enjoy college so much more.
5. It's okay to talk to boys if you aren't interested in a relationship...WHAT A SHOCKER!
I know that right here at this moment, you are hyperventilating because the statement just CAN NOT BE TRUE. Well in the college world, it is very true. Many girls will come to get their "M-R-S Degree" or to "Get a ring by spring", but it truly IS POSSIBLE to be friends with a guy and hang out with him, without having any feelings for him. Since being on a small Christian campus, this may result to many questions being brought up to you, but yes it is possible. Whether you need help with homework, or just want a cool friend to hang out with, guys are a pretty cool outlet. They aren't really dramatic and they sometimes buy you food! (NEVER DENY FREE FOOD!)