So far I have one year of college under my belt. I went into my freshman year slightly naive about the reality of living on campus and spending every day in a tiny dorm room. I have learned a lot and here are some tips for those incoming freshmen.
1. Bring a fan
Unfortunately, our freshmen girls building did not have air conditioning. I was not fully aware of this fact, so the first few months in my dorm room were probably the hottest nights in my life. I say this to save you from sleeping in your own pool of sweat (gross, I know).
2. Be ready to share
You'll have to get used to sharing your space, your bathroom and even your clothes with your roommate! Be prepared! You two will be spending the rest of the year together, so you might as well that sharing will be an everyday occurrence.
3. Step out of your room
I know this may sound weird, but it is something you really do need to remember. When all of your homework is done (or isn't) Netflix is probably the most tempting thing at the moment. However, instead of sitting in front of your computer, step outside of your dorm room and meet the people surrounding you! You never know what friendships could form from it.
4. Go outside of your friend group
While you're in college, it may be really easy to click with friends you've known since high school (that happen to be attending the same college as you). As nice as that is, it's important to go beyond the relationships you're already familiar with and open your eyes to all of the different kinds of people on campus!
5. Bring snacks
Let's just be honest with each other, campus food is not the best. By all means, you will have to take a Taco Bell or Krispy Kreme run, but also have those snacks on hand in your desk drawer. Snacks like granola bars, fruit snacks, pop tarts, or chocolate (one of my personal favorites) are great to have on hand when you're hungry or just not wanting the campus food.
6. Communicate
Lastly, but certainly not least, is communication. Communicate with your roommate (or roommates) about what each of you is bringing to the dorm room. That way you will be organized and save you from moving unnecessary items. Most importantly, communicate with your roommate on a personal level. You have never lived with each other before so there will have to be a give and take. But make sure you are being open and honest with one another because holding it in helps no one.
Now that is my list of tips/advice for you incoming college freshmen. It will definitely be an experience to remember! Remember these tips and your year should be nothing but smooth sailing!
