For me, it was a new city full of unknown people and a completely new atmosphere! The newness of College was something I loved. It was something that I thought I was ready for.
In college, there will be many things that you can prepare for. On the other hand, situations you never thought would happen, will happen. You’ll learn many valuable lessons. I want to share a few that I’ve learned so those of you who are new to the college life can learn from my mistakes.
1. Learn to Manage Your Money
By the time the beginning of any semester comes around, we all feel like T.T. But after paying for books, tuition, and rent, I don’t think anyone is a stranger to Ramen Noodles or trying to bum for meal swipes. But the good thing about college is that we’re all broke together! Still, being broke is never fun. So with that being said, save, save, save your money! There will always be a party but you really don’t need a new outfit for each one. Wasting money on clothes and food is never worth it, especially when emergency situations occur. Don’t blow your residuals, paychecks, or Money family members might occasionally send you. After college, money management will be even more important as you’ll be entering the real “adult world” (if you haven’t already). Think of this as a head start. Most of your friends will understand if you have to sit out on an event due to low funds, like I said, it’s college…we’re all broke.
2. 8 AM Classes Are NEVER The Move
When it comes to scheduling and registering for classes do it as early as possible. Try to get priority registration if you can. Most importantly, do not sign up for an 8 AM class! I know that sometimes those pesky 8 AMs are unavoidable but if you don’t have to enroll in it, don’t. I made that mistake my freshman year. Every Tuesday and Thursday waking up at 7 AM was such a struggle, I fought sleep most of that Psychology class, it was just a mess. Know that you are responsible for being in that seat when class starts and trusssssst me, those attendance points will come in handy. I would also suggest that you NOT overload or overwhelm yourself. What I mean is, don’t create a schedule that only includes classes 3 days (Monday, Wednesday, Friday) or 2 days a week (Tuesday, Thursday). It sounds good until you have three exams and a paper due on the same day. I’m not saying it’s impossible, but as a freshman, that is a lot to take on. During your first semester there is nothing wrong with taking 12-15 credit hours over a five day span. Give yourself the appropriate amount of time to transition from high school and to get comfortable with your new educational and social environment.
This was me…don’t be me.
3. It’s All About YOU!!
Of course you enroll to learn but, what you will gain most is a new relationship with yourself. If someone told me that when I was entering college, I probably wouldn’t have known what to think. But it’s so true! As you learn more about yourself and get a better understanding of who you are, you will be able to mold and navigate your future with much more confidence. College— mainly life altogether—will help you figure out your likes and dislikes, strengths and weaknesses. Those important characteristics will give you a better idea of what you should major in and what Career Path will be best for you. As you learn more about you, your major might even change a couple of times and that’s okay! You are deciding what you want to dedicate your career and life to, don’t rush the process.
In addition to college being about you and your journey to decide the right major and career path, it’s about you learning to love and appreciate yourself. If you’re a person who’s always surrounded by friends or if you feel uncomfortable doing activities alone, work on that! Time spent alone is a great way to reflect on your life and discover ways to make yourself happy. Also, don’t be in a rush to be in a relationship. The guys (and ladies) are usually no different in college than they were in your high school. Put yourself first and don’t add unnecessary distractions to your life. It’s all about you!
Remember: The Goal Is To Graduate
These are just a few tips compared to what any college student could give you. But the best piece of advice is to stay focused and remember that your goal is to graduate. No one wants to be in debt without a degree. Keep your eyes on the prize. Stay away from anything or anyone that could get in the way of what you want. There will be a lot of stress and maybe even a few mental breakdowns but an occasional swag surf will always help. Always do your work and when it feels like too much, remember to have fun…it is college after all!
