"Don't be afraid of fear. Because it sharpens you, it challenges you, it makes you stronger; and when you run away from fear, you also run away from the opportunity to be your best possible self." -Ed Helms
Congratulations! You graduated high school; that is a huge accomplishment, and you did it! I'm sure you worked very hard considering high school can be tough. I hope you appreciate the effort you've put into overcoming milestones because that is what brought you to where you are now. And what's next? You are about to embark on your next chapter in life: College!
Excitement. Nervousness. Anxiousness. Probably just some of the typical emotions you're feeling as you're about to take your next steps. I get it. I've been there. I'm going into my junior year of college and I've learned a few important lessons myself that I would like to share with you incoming freshmen. But might I add, you must be desperate if you're coming to me for advice, of all people. There are great knowledgable, maybe even successful, college graduates out there with fantastic words of wisdom to guide you in the right direction, but instead fate brought you to my mediocre article, so let's pretend I'm the one with all of the answers, OK? Now let's have a heart to heart. So, consider taking this advice from a life-in-motion:
1. Put yourself out there.
Get out there and meet new people! Channel your inner kindergartner and just approach someone. Everyone is in the same boat as you, so take the initiative. You never know, it just might be the beginning of a lasting friendship!
Be a part of your campus. Experiment with the many clubs and activities your school has to offer. Open your mind to what else is out there and gain some perspective. Step outside of your comfort zone and try new things, like a leadership role! Just have an adventure.
2. Remember why you're there.
It's easy to get distracted, especially living on a college campus. It almost feels like a rush of adrenaline. You're going to meet so many new people and be introduced to new experiences, maybe even wild college parties, but don't lose sight of your values. Upon entering college, you have a dream, an idea of what you want to do with your life. Don't throw it all away for some party with people that may not care for your well-being. Be passionately devoted to your studies, don't just breeze your way through. Create a balance, but most importantly, prioritize.
3. Have goals.
Be adaptable to change, but also have a set of goals you wish to accomplish whether they're small everyday tasks to keep you on track with deadlines and responsibilities or long-term goals, it's important to start planning and thinking it through. Know what you want and have an idea of getting there.
Experience is everything. Start looking at internships. Even though you're only entering your first year of college, it's not too early to start preparing. Most employers at job fairs ask students for resumes when discussing future job opportunities, so get out there and build your resume!
4. Be yourself.
In college, you will be doing a lot of self-reflecting, I guarantee. You'll find yourself questioning who you are as a person. This is vital in becoming who you want to become. You may not find the answers right away, but do me a favor and please never lose sight of your values! Always speak the truth and your mind.
Congratulations again and I wish you the best of luck! The world is yours! Go get 'em, tiger!
