I’m currently a freshman at UMBC, and I’ve just been through one semester here. Somehow I feel like I have changed a lot even though I’ve been in college for only one semester. I know that you’re probably thinking, “Ah I messed up!” since last semester wasn’t fantastic. But, as you know, things happen and we mess up, as shown by high school mistakes. Ah, the fate of being as fabulous as we are.
1. Don’t think your major is your final decision. You can change it, and it’s encouraged.
Maybe you love biology, yes. However, look at the requirements needed for the major. Think about the amount of stress you can handle when choosing your major. Seriously, you will thank me later when you’re not having panic attacks and walking back from your friend’s dorm at 2 a.m. after studying. I went into college as a biology major expecting that I could handle it. However, I couldn’t because I needed a balance in my life between math/science classes and humanities. Instead, I changed my major to psychology because I knew the classes would interest me more.
2. Take care of yourself when you get to college.
Keeping track of your physical health is important if you even want to consider getting good grades because it directly impacts your emotional health. Caffeine alone won’t fill you up; please eat something before you head to class. Additionally, sleep is crucial. Skipping discussions won’t help you win any points with the TAs, especially when you tell them you skipped it because you overslept. They’ve heard that excuse before. Also, it's okay to take a break, but don’t overdo it. While marathoning your favorite shows when you have “nothing better to do” might be ideal at first, you’ll regret it when you end up writing a 2-3 page paper about the economic status of Zambia into the wee hours of the morning.
3. Choose classes you like.
There’s a reason you got this far into college. While a major you put on a pedestal might seem ideal at first, you’re going to regret it if you legitimately hate the classes you’re taking. Hating the classes you’re taking does not help your motivation when preparing to study for them. Honestly, it may be better to go into college as undecided. You can take a multitude of classes to help decide what major is best for you.
4. Don’t focus on someone you have a crush on too much.
It’s really not a good idea to have a "pro" for a college you’re considering be the guy you have romantic feelings for. While that was not the main deciding factor for me when choosing my college of choice, remember it’s going to be hard and awkward if a break up happens. College is important for making new friends- not clinging to the same group of friends, too. Keep an open mind. Explore! Work on yourself as a person by mingling with others. Focus on how you can better yourself through spend time on your hobbies and relaxing.
5. Cherish the moments you have before you go to college.
Senior year of high school was something that I will never forget in many ways. I wish I could have told myself these things: ditch that guy who isn’t reciprocating your feelings, spend time with your girlfriends, go on that last summer trip with your friends, and remember that you’re irreplaceable to many.
