I learned a lot these past six weeks and the memories I made will last a lifetime. Here are 15 things I learned during my first semester at FGCU!
1. Take advantage of the resources offered.Â
You truly think that you will not use them but hey, reality check, you do. The resources can help you, A LOT!!! I know it seems like a pain and you may want to do without them but I promise you, using them will truly help you.
2. Introduce yourself to new people.
Do not just find out their name. Find out what their favorite color is, find out what makes them happy. You will truly remember them if you know more about them. DO NOT be afraid to get to know someone on a more personal level. FGCU is so diverse that it is a wonderful opportunity to meet people that you normally would not on a day-to-day basis.
3. Get involved!
FGCU has so many programs and clubs you could get introduced to. Find your home, find where you belong. Go out to the Library Lawn, there is always something going on and it is an extraordinary way to meet new people.
4. Use your time wisely.Â
I know at orientation they say that the bar will always be there and the test will not. They are right! You worked so hard for this test, studying doing homework, are you really going to waste all of your hard work on one night at the club that will always be there?
5. Walk through campus.Â
If you have time to burn, whether you are walking from class to class or trying to find the perfect spot to eat lunch, adventure. FGCU is a beautiful campus, there is always a bunch to do and see. What other campus has palm trees, alligators, and nature trails? Not very many.
6. Ask questions!
How will you know if you do not ask? Don't know where something is? Ask. Need help with an assignment? Ask. Want to know more about FGCU and their history? Ask. I can assure you, everyone is there to help and would love to answer your questions.
7. You will miss home-cooked meals.Â
My friend invited my roomie and me over for a home-cooked meal, Taco Tuesday of course, and I never truly knew how tired I was growing of frozen chicken nuggets until that meal.
8. Always carry an umbrella with you.Â
Every time I went to Target with my roomie, it poured. Every. Single. Time. Nothing is worse than walking into a freezing building then walking in with water dripping off you. It is Florida, after all, the weather changes all of the time.
9. Call your parents.Â
You may think you do it enough but trust me, you do not. I would call my mom almost every night just because I made chicken nuggets. I would call her when I got the job I prayed for. I would call her and tell her how class went. And every time, I would tell her I love her.
10. Find your study spot.Â
Whether it is the fourth floor of Library East, Eagle Hall study lounge, Library Lawn, or even the Cohen Center balcony. Trust me, you will be visiting this spot more than you will ever think.
11. Hammocks are common.Â
Do not be surprised if you are casually walking to class and there are hammocks hanging in the Library lawn. This is normal.
12. You will use the stress ball!
Maybe not for classes, maybe over a dumb game of Crazy 8. But trust me, you will use it!
13. Your roomies may turn out to be your best friends.Â
My roomies and I would spend nights playing Cards Against Humanity or games on GamePigeon or just talk. Taco Tuesdays, Pizookie nights, girl talks, and even a shoulder to cry on. Not to mention the nights cooking, those always held the best adventures. I could not have asked for better first roomies!
14. The first semester will fly by.Â
I felt as if I just started my first semester and now I am packing up my dorm to move out for 9 days.
15. You will find your home away from home.Â
FGCU has been more than a school to me. It gave me the better days I prayed for. It gave me endless opportunities. I was scared to start classes in the summer but I am beyond glad I did. I truly cannot wait for the next four amazing years of my life. I will be back soon. FGCU and until then, I will be missing my home away from home. Go Eagles!
