How to Survive Your First Semester of College | The Odyssey Online
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How to Survive Your First Semester of College

tips have been tested and proven successful

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How to Survive Your First Semester of College

It's finally time to go to college! Your bags are packed, your parents are crying because you're moving away, and you feel like you have no idea what you are doing. We've all been there, but here are a couple of tips I wish someone would have told me during my first year of college.

1. Don't expect your best friends to come on the first day of school

For some people, this happens and they find their friend group immediately. But if it doesn't happen, it's okay you're normal. Keep meeting new people, be yourself, and you will find where you fit in and what people can truly be a great influence on your life.

2. Starting organized leads to staying organized

If you start the habit of being organized from the beginning, it will carry on from there. This can eliminate the stress of constantly trying to find something in hurry (you're always on a schedule in college, get used to it). Also, you will feel a confidence boost because you have your crap together (somewhat).

3. Shoot to lose the freshman 15, not gain it

Don't accept that everyone gains weight their first year. Make it your goal to change the odds. There is no reason why you can't make time for yourself to workout. Remember, you are in college to better your education, but that doesn't mean your body has to go down the drain. Make working out a priority.

4. Habits formed on week 1 are hard to break

Once you get in the routine of things, it's hard to break bad habits. Don't become lazy during your first semester of college (at least until the end) or else you won't make it the next four years of your life.

5. Call your mom


When you're frustrated, call your mom. When you're sad, call your mom. When you fail a test, call your mom. When you finally get a date, call your mom. She's always in your corner.

6. Have grace on others and yourself

Each school year is new for everyone. Have grace on your teachers, upperclassmen, other freshmen, everyone. Know that you don't have to have your life together when you step on to the campus. The goal is to figure it out during the journey.

Feel prepared? No one else does either. The simplest thing to do right now is to breathe, you can do this. Just take it one day at a time.

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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
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