Things I've Learned My Freshman Year of College

Coming into college, I had no idea what to expect, especially as a graduate fresh out of high school. The transition for me was a huge eye opener as I was exposed to more people, cultures, opinions, and lifestyles among other things. Here are a few things that I've learned throughout my freshman year of college.

The transition is not easy

You’ve just turned 18 (or you’re about to) and you’re now expected to adult on your own. Whether you live on campus or not, there are certain things you are expected to know (if not look it up!). There's a lot that you now have to keep up with that your mom was responsible for keeping up with. You're now responsible for yourself and you can't depend solely on mom, even to make your doctor's appointments.

The people you meet your first week may or may not stick with you throughout the year

The first week is when you’re exposed to the most number of new people the whole year. You may meet some people that you think you’ll stick by the entire year. WRONG! As everyone starts building their squads, you’ll figure out who your real friends are. Be grateful for those 2-3 friends that stick around the entire year!

Time management matters!!!

• Learning to manage free time (if your ever have any), school work, family, and your social life can be a challenge, especially on your own. You may be more prone to procrastination and laziness, the ultimate enemies in college!!! Develop a flexible routine or you'll regret it later!

The freshmen 15 is real!

• Everyone seems to think that the freshman 15 is a myth, but I’m here to tell you it isn’t! Sudden access to lots of food is only a swipe away in college, especially if you’re on a meal plan. Eating can be a hobby: while you’re studying, while you’re out with friends, and even when you’re bored. I will admit that a salad costs more than nuggets and fries from Chick Fil A at the college I attend so it can be tempting to just settle for the junk food. Take advantage of the gym. After all, you are paying for it!!

You need a strong support system

• College gets hard, so hard that it will get to a point where you'll be ready to give everything up. Have people that you can talk to at anytime. Use the counseling center's services; they can be very helpful and you're paying for them so why not! Be willing to talk to those trusted people about your problems. You'll probably regret it if you don't. Thank me later!

You have to try new things

• College is what you make it. I've heard this phrase multiple times throughout my freshmen year of college and it really is true! It's really up to you to go out and make friends, get involved in clubs, and get information about upcoming events. Break out of your shell and do things you probably wouldn't have a couple of years ago! College is the time when you find yourself and what you really want to do in life. You can't do that without branching out and networking!!

You will be broke at some points

• You never truly know what it means to be broke until you go to college. There will points where you will feel broke in every aspect: financially, academically, emotionally, physically, socially, and so on. Just know that there will be points where you have 100 pages to read, 4 quizzes the next day, 3 papers due, and only about $2.87 in your bank account (this is just an example). You will learn to manage in due time.

Have fun!

• College can be quite stressful but you have to also make sure you take time out for yourself and have fun! Go visit some places off campus, like malls, movie theaters, and restaurants! Explore the city your campus is in, go to parties, and meet new people! College is what you make it!

Embrace Your Unique!

#college #lifestyle