Finishing up the last semester of college, I find myself flipping through my old Facebook photos labeled "Round 1." I'm now finishing "Round 4," and I'm wondering where time has gone. Instead of focusing on what outfit I'm planning to wear this weekend, I'm focused on picking the right suit to wear to the career fair or my next big kid interview. Letting go of the past and starting off in a brand new environment seems scary. Looking back to the beginning of college, I wish I had known a few things I know now.
Go to class
Talk to any professor and they'll all respond the same way about the grading system and going to class. Most tests, quizzes and projects are explained and gone over thoroughly in class. Even if you're too broke to buy the $200 book this semester, you will retain more information in class anyway. Stay active with class participation and ask questions when something needs to be asked. The more the instructor likes you, the better chance you have to get that A.
Save your money
"Rounds on you?" Try me next time. Something that seems so hard to do always pays off more in the end. Keep that credit card at home and truly only use it when it's necessary. Spring break and after-graduation moves will be a lot more accessible when you have the funds to pay for the things you want.
Make memories
Your planner is filled up and even seems to be drifting onto the next day. Your mind is mush and you might barf if you have to answer one more question on the study guide for the Physics test you have in three days. Your friends keep blowing up your phone trying to convince you to go out for a night on the town. Let them. Understand that this is the time for breaks to happen. You can study 48 more hours starting tomorrow. Growing up is hard, but it doesn't have to be completely painful. Treat yourself when you need to.
Learn to be selfish
I'm not talking 'I'm better than everyone" selfish, but learn to do things for yourself just as much as you do for other people. Piling more and more on your plate at 18 to 22 years old is the last thing you need. You are not a terrible human being by making sure you are taken care of first and foremost.
Pain is temporary
No matter what may seem like the end of the world, my guess is it won't matter in five years. Looking back on unfixable friendships and guys who seemed like Superman that are now completely irrelevant, I know that life happens. Not getting that dream internship will eventually turn into something better, believe me. Some things tend to sting more than others where that rule is exceptional, but not many. Feeling sorry for yourself is healthy, crying is healthy, being sad is a completely normal thing—just don't lose yourself. Take an entire day if you must, but always pick yourself back up and shift your focus.
Be nice to everyone you meet
The nice thing about going to the same state university as someone is sharing the same background. But not if you make a complete a** out of yourself and your newest boss never forgets. Something people don't always realize throughout college is who they might come in contact with after they graduate. Sure, you might be the hottest tamale on campus, but college only lasts four years. Remember to keep your connections, and try not to burn bridges with anyone.
Eat healthy
Treat your body to things that will make you feel good. If you don't like fruits and vegetables, Google an alternative. Lay off the sweets and don't forget about the free recreational center right around the corner; thank me later.
Have fun
When they tell you that this experience is the best four years of your entire life, most people aren't kidding. Go out every weekend, travel with friends to different schools, learn to like beer. Don't be that know-it-all who everyone hates to be around and learn to go with the flow sometimes. Understand that this time won't last forever and you'll never get another opportunity quite like it.
College is as tough as you make it. Make a few mistakes and learn to let the past stay where it may. Stay organized and let your ambition lead you to your dream job.
Enjoy this time, you deserve to.
