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The 25 Most Important Lessons I Learned From My First Year Of College

Alexa, play "I Love College!"

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The 25 Most Important Lessons I Learned From My First Year Of College
Ashley Sizemore

I learned a lot in nine months. Here are some of my favorite takeaways.

1. The friends you make the first few weeks may not stay the same. 

I went through a lot of "friendships" before I found my true college friends.

2. White rugs don't stay white.

It was cute when we moved in.

3. Neither do white shoes, if you wear them ~certain~ places.

Ashley Sizemore

Drop a few extra dollars on a pair that you really, really don't care about.

4. Wear a jacket when it's cold at night. Don't be that girl.

Ashley Sizemore

I was that girl a lot.

5. You end up texting your mom, a lot.

Ashley Sizemore

"Hey, wanna hear what I had for lunch?"

6. As much as your mom is on her phone, she sometimes never answers your texts. You'll just call her later. 

She claims to be "busy."

7. Student orgs make all the difference, and not just on your resume.

Ashley Sizemore

Without the groups I'm in, college would be so boring.

8. Greek life is more than partying and drama.

Ashley Sizemore

Philanthropy events, sisterhood socials, and the numerous GroupMe groups help form a true bond.

9. Sorority recruitment is really hard, but really worth it. 

I hated every minute of it, but momma didn't raise a quitter.

10. Guys are everywhere. Don't let one ruin your night. 

Odds are, Brad from Tau Candy Apple really isn't worth it.

11. You really do only live once, so try new things as much as possible (safely). 

What's the point to college if you don't have numerous crazy stories to tell after?

12. Dress how you want, and don't let anyone tell you what not to wear. 

I'll always dress how I want, no matter how many guys tell me that flare jeans are "ugly."

13. Online shopping is a little too convenient. 

It should be an Olympic sport.

14. Take pictures of literally everything.

Ashley Sizemore

Whenever I miss a moment or someone, I always have pictures and videos to look back on.

15. Videos too. 

The videos are the best.

16. Check in on those around you, and surround yourself with those who do the same. 

Constantly surround yourself with people who will better you, or you just won't get better.

17. Don't drink nitro cold brew at 8 p.m. if you want to sleep that night. 

Biggest mistake of finals week.

18. Go to the rec center. It's a good stress reliever. 

Even though it's a 30-minute walk.

19. The library definitely isn't for everyone. 

Definitely don't go on the third floor. It's so quiet you can hear your brain cells dying.

20. Take some time for yourself every once in a while. It's a good way to stay grounded. 

Even if it means walking uptown and getting an ice cream cone, do it. You'll thank yourself later.

21. 19 credit hours a semester is do-able. You did it. 

I'm just trying to graduate on time.

22. So are part-time jobs while taking 19 credit hours. 

I'll always have my barista career to fall back on.

23. There's always that one person in every class that nobody can stand. 

Every time they open their mouth, the whole room groans.

24. Your major will change. Lots and lots and lots of times. This is OK. 

Once upon a time, I was (insert any major here).

25. English majors aren't "easy." Each major deserves respect. 

You actually have to have a personality and a little bit of talent to write a 28-page creative writing final.

I can't wait for round two.

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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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