To my little sis,
Here are a few things you should know before you go into your freshman year of college. I want you to know how proud I am of you for all you have accomplished, and I know you will continue to strive for greatness as you enter this next chapter of life.
1. College Is So Much Better Than High School
From day one when you move on campus, life hands you a new slate. Though you have no reason to change, you are free to be who you want to be. It's a chance to reinvent yourself. None of the drama that occurred in high school follows you. Even if it did, no one is going to care like in your high school days.
2. Put Yourself Out There
With this new lease on life, I encourage you to join clubs or intramurals. Get involved on campus. It's a great way to meet people who enjoy the same things that you do. Every freshman is just as nervous as you are, so don't be afraid to take the first step and introduce yourself.
3. You Are There For School
Although going out every night may be a college norm for some, remember that you are there to get an education. Don't get in the habit of skipping class; you hardly ever fully catch up after that first time. Sadly, you can't major in the art of beer pong. If you need to study for a test, stay in and study. Yes, you may miss out on some of the shenanigans, but there will always be more the following weekend.
4. Caffeine + Nap Time = Best Friends
There will come a time when you stay up into the witching hours studying for that exam or starting that paper that is due the next day. Notice how I said "starting"...it will happen to you eventually. Hence, the liquid gold of coffee. Also, I know we never appreciated nap time when we were little, but it's a must in college. During finals, you might even start setting a 15-minute timer just to take a little siesta.
5. Go Out
Mom and Dad may kill me for saying this, but go out. A four-year degree is great, but there are some things a professor and exams cannot teach you. This is the time for small paychecks and big memories. Have a good night with your friends — within reason of course. Take weekend or day trips. They don't have to be elaborate or expensive. When you are with people you can laugh with and just be up for anything, a great time is just beyond the dashboard as you're cruising around town.
5. Don't Be A Bystander
Don't be a naive freshman. You'll probably drink at a party. Always have a safe way home. Never get in the car of someone who's under the influence. Life is too precious. I love you too much, so please promise me that. Also, if a friend is in trouble, don't be afraid to call for help. A phone call is all it takes to possibly save a life.
6. Communication Is Key
If you don't understand something in class, email the professor or one of the older peer tutors for some extra help. Even just making the effort shows the professor you care. If you get sick (trust me, it spreads like a wildfire on campus), again let your professors know and ask friends for their lecture notes for that day.
7. A Good Roommate Experience Is Like A Marriage
It will have it's ups and downs. Again, communication is key. You will definitely rely on them more the first semester, as you guys are floundering to find your own niche. If you guys binge on the same munchies during Netflix sessions, just share it and take turns buying it. If they are feeling down, pick up their favorite food to bring back to the room. If they are stressed about a test, do a little something to take a task off their plate, such as doing their dishes that have been sitting by the bathroom sink for a few days. You will get into arguments, but never go to bed angry. Talk it out to find a common ground for the evening. If you have conflicting class schedules, be respectful and be quiet in the mornings or vice versa. Hopefully, a lifelong friendship will blossom. If not, they will still teach you something, so appreciate them.
8. Call Mom and Dad
They are now empty nesters. They are adjusting to the quiet house, the empty dinner table, having to not buy as many groceries or do as much laundry. Though you might not need to, call them or FaceTime them for their sake. They will appreciate it. Also don't forget about Grandma and Papa. It makes their day if you call.
9. I'm Always Here
We may be on opposite sides of the Lone Star State now, but know that I am always here. If you are procrastinating and find a funny video, tag me in it because I'm probably doing the same thing. If you need an ear to listen as you vent, call me. I don't care if it's 2 a.m. and I'm out or you are. I'll pick up.
10. Though We Are Now Rivals, I'll Always Love You
I am so excited for you, and I hope you are, too. Just know that you're not alone. I can't wait to meet up at sporting games when our schools face each other. I guess it's just another thing for us to argue about, but it's out of good heart. Freshman year goes by fast, so enjoy every minute of it.
