As I am currently entering my second semester of college, I've had some time to reflect on my experiences, successes and failures of the semester prior. As I reflect on these, I wanted to document my findings and repurpose them as a resource of advice for some of what to expect as you enter college. Here are five things that I wish I had known or had prepared myself for as an incoming freshman:
1. Say goodbye to free time
One thing that I felt unprepared for and caught off-guard by was the amount and rigor of the homework. After receiving the score for my first psych exam, I had quite a wake-up call when I realized that simply reviewing the book chapters once before the exam is NOT a good study method. In high school, it didn't take much for me to get an A in a class. But college is an all new ballpark, and to be honest, I have had to try harder in school this past semester than I have in 4 years of high school.
By the time I actually do my readings, study, take notes, and complete assignments, I find myself facing anywhere from two to four hours of homework on any given day. I found myself staying up until 2 or 3 am and forgetting to eat dinner because I was so focused on getting my homework done. Between homework, a job, clubs, sorority obligations, or any of your other commitments, you can expect to have a very jam-packed schedule.
2. Buy a planner and use it religiously
In order to survive the busy lifestyle of a college student, organization and time management is key. I went to Target and bought myself a planner, colored pens, dividers and label makers within the first week of class. With so much going on and so many assignments due, it's pretty much impossible to remember it all without a planner. If you're someone who lacks in time-management skills, you will need to start getting adjusted now. I keep an organized, color-coordinated planner and a dry erase board calendar for social obligations in order to keep myself organized. Find what works for you, and stick to that!
3. Get yourself: (a) a sturdy pair of walking shoes; and (b) winter boots
I was definitely not prepared for the amount of walking I would be doing. I was convinced that I had shin splints at least three times throughout the semester. And if you think that's bad, just wait until it gets cold out. I have never felt so tempted to wear sweatpants to class in my life. Staying as warm and bundled up as possible is key. A good pair of winter boots will be your best friend in the winter.
4. You won't ever regret putting yourself out there
One of the best things about college is meeting new people and trying new things. The best way to meet new people in college is by signing up for clubs, going Greek, attending events, participating in house activities and events, and doing things to get yourself out there. It can be scary and lonely during your first couple weeks, or even months. That's why it's good to keep yourself busy and meet new people when you can.
5. Work hard, play hard — a method of survival
Even though college is hard, it's also a lot of fun. Take your studies seriously and get your work done so that you can celebrate on the weekends. For the first time ever, you have complete freedom to do whatever you want and not have to worry about things like having a curfew, not doing the dishes, or cleaning your room.
When you do have free time, make the most of it in the best way possible — by doing something fun with a good group of friends and celebrating the fact that you survived another week of college.
It's almost impossible to last the entire semester without having to call your mom in a dead panic for advice — but hopefully these few tips will help prepare you so you can save her at least a few panicked calls.
