Almost everyone has known nothing more than living under their parents roof their entire life. You go to preschool, elementary school, middle school, then high school. Then the question is what happens after high school? Will I make new friends at college? Am I going to be able to do my own laundry without flooding the entire floor with soap? You get so overwhelmed with questions and fears of moving on and growing up. But really, you should just be excited to start a new and amazing chapter of life.
The summer leading up to your first year of college is probably the most memorable summer you'll ever have. It should be full of adventures, late nights out, sunburns, and laughter. Cherish those memories because they are some of the best you'll ever have. Then the night before move-in day comes and you wonder, "Holy crap, what is going to happen next?". You're finally leaving home and getting ready to take on the world without having your parents and close friends by your side. It's normal to be afraid of the next step.
Before you know it you're moved in and you're living with a complete stranger. The only conversation you and this person have had is who is bringing the mini fridge and who is bringing the T.V. But, this stranger is a blessing. Be thankful they are there to go through all the Freshman orientation activities with and that they are there to go to lunch and dinner with. Then, before you know it this stranger won't be much of a stranger anymore. They will actually be your best friend. You'll stay up till God only knows when talking about the stupidest things or having heart-to-hearts. You'll learn their schedules, including their nap schedule and you might end up doing everything together. Including joining Greek life.
Once everyone is settled in and classes start the Greek life organizations start having rushes. Go to every organization's rush event even if you think Greek life isn't for you. You may end up loving everything about it! But, if you feel like it isn't the right fit for you there are plenty of other things to get involved in like work study jobs, clubs, and sports! Really get involved and break out of your comfort zone. College is where you make lifetime friends and getting involved with different groups of people really helps you to get out there and socialize.
All in all, college is a great experience but your first year flies by! Make sure to take a million pictures and try to remember every single memory you make. College really is the time of your life. Once you go home for the summer you'll most likely be itching to move back in to see all your friends!
