Dear freshman,
Congrats! You finally made it to college! This is a time to find your purpose, meet lifelong friends and hey – maybe even meet your spouse (no pressure). While college is an exciting time of growth, good times and great friendships, it can also be trying, lonely and difficult. But don’t fret, we are here to help.
In honor of you moving in, my fellow seniors and I reminisced on our freshman year -- everything we regret, mistakes we made, fun times we had and lessons we learned. To help you make this a positive time in your life, we all chipped in and came up with some quick words of advice based on our freshman experiences.
1. Get involved.
There is so much to do in college. Don’t camp out in your dorm – get out there, try different things and meet new people. Don't know where to start? Try some different campus ministries on campus.
2. Find a good balance between life and school.
This is vital. Remember, you’re paying a LOT of money for your education – not your social life. Focus on your education and make the most of it! That being said, if you hole up in the library and don’t branch out, you will miss out on some great people and opportunities. Learn the right balance for yourself and stay disciplined.
3. Guard your heart.
Lots of freshmen who step on campus are alone for the first time. So naturally – and subconsciously – lots of us rush right into a relationship. Be aware and keep your wits about you. Remember that everyone you date will either be your spouse or an ex – so take your time! If you're going to be with someone, a little time and a slow pace won't stop that from coming about. Some simple caution and constant prayer can save you and someone else from useless heartache.
4. Don’t hook up.
Okay, this may be a bit awkward for some, but it needs to be said. In college, sex is an unavoidable topic. It's in today's music, movies, conversation and just about everywhere else. Sex has become so watered down by our culture that it can begin seem like a normal or even an expected behavior of college students. Don't be fooled by this - just because it's everywhere doesn't mean it won't hurt you.
Eventually, everyone regrets it. No matter how casual you think you can be, you can’t fight nature. Contrary to what today’s culture will tell you, it will never satisfy your appetite and it does affect your future relationships. I cannot tell you how many grown men my friends and I have seen in tears because they finally felt the weight of their mistakes in this area. Now – I say this because this letter is a cautionary tale and we want you to thrive this year. If you mess up or if you already have messed up, it isn’t the end. God is good and “where sin increases, grace increases all the more.” – Romans 5:20. But while grace covers your sin, it doesn’t mean it won’t leave a scar.
5. Learn from your mistakes.
“Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise” – Proverbs 19:20. Just ask any senior. We have all made mistakes and done things that we are not proud of – and odds are you will too. Learn from them and don’t repeat them!
6. Remember that God is in control and He is always at work.
“And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast” – 1 Peter 5:10. Tough times and good times are ahead. Praise Him for working in you through all of it.
7. Finally, don’t be afraid to say hey to us seniors.
Welcome to campus.
--Seniors
