I remember when I was in high school, being in college seemed so far away. When I was a freshman in college, I never thought I’d see the light at the end of the dark, dark tunnel to graduation. Most of my time in college has been spent just trying to stay above water, and the remaining time has been spent making memories with friends I will never forget.
Fast forward to now. I’m jumping into my last year of school ever, and I have so many mixed feelings about it. Part of me is ready to move on, but a huge part of me isn’t ready at all. Why can’t I just be an innocent, irresponsible freshman again?
If you’re transitioning into college, here are a few tips you should make note of:
1. Appreciate living in the dorms.
When you’re living in the dorms, you can’t help but constantly think about how much you hate living in a cramped space with someone you just met. The fact that you have to eat dining hall food for every meal, wear shower shoes and bring a shower caddy with you to the bathroom doesn’t make the situation better. Yes, we can all agree that some of these things are super inconvenient, but it’s only one year of your life! You don’t have to worry about any responsibilities like getting toilet paper, cleaning and cooking. Seriously, enjoy this while you can—you will probably never live like this again.
2. Always keep your door open.
Try your best to keep your door open any time you can, even if the people on your floor are loud and obnoxious. Having your door open will encourage people to come chat or hang out with you more often! This was one thing I never did, and I regret it. I felt weird not knowing many people on my floor since my roommate and I both always kept the door closed. Chances are, some of the people you meet will become some of your best friends!
3. Try to meet as many people as you can.
This is such a cliché thing to say, but it couldn’t be truer. You’ll meet people you never thought you’d be friends with. However, you’ll also meet people you’d barely call a friend—and that’s okay! You can get so much insight on life by meeting people with different backgrounds, experiences, opinions and lives than you. One thing that drew me to UW-Madison was the variety of students that attend this school. Take advantage of going to a big school by meeting as many new people as possible.
4. Go to class, and be ready to learn.
Going to class can become so routine and boring. Mid-semester is always the hardest part—you start losing all motivation. I know when I get stuck in this lull, I have a hard time getting to class. I know it’s okay to feel like this, but do not make this a habit—college is way too short and expensive to be skipping class every week. Plus, chances are, you’re probably just screwing yourself over more by not going. If you really don’t feel like going, get the notes and make the one next week better…which brings me to my next point: if you do get stuck in a boring routine, try and appreciate learning. Going to college is a huge accomplishment—we are all here to learn! And even though sometimes it’s hard to want to learn, you have to get the most out of your education!
5. Take naps, lots of naps.
Anyone who knows me knows I’m a huge advocate for naps. Definitely do not make this an everyday habit like I did previously, but you’re going to need sleep if you’re working hard! I swear I keep getting more tired as college goes on…
6. Get involved on campus.
Everyone who’s involved in something on campus says it, but it really is true. There are so many clubs at big schools like UW-Madison. You can find clubs that are of academic interests or hobbies—and much more too! I’ve met some of my best friends from student organizations— even joining one club can make a huge school feel a little bit smaller.
7. Be open to trying new things.
This should always be something you’re trying to do, but I’m a firm believer that this is especially important while you’re in school. College is the perfect time to figure out what you do and do not like. By being open-minded, you can really come out of your shell—you might surprise yourself!
8. Learn to love your school.
Participate in activities that are common amongst students at your school. For us Badgers, we love football, basketball and hockey games. We love hanging out on State Street, trying out different food carts for lunch and sitting at the Union Terrace for sunset or a live band. We’ve probably all cried at College Library at one point, or have sat on Bascom Hill during a break between classes. You have to completely immerse yourself in your campus atmosphere and community—that’s what brings us all together! If you’ve never walked up Bascom Hill, do it! If you’ve never gone to the Farmer’s Market, do it! If you’ve never been to the Orpheum for a concert, do it! If you don’t throw yourself in, you’re going to leave regretting not having enjoyed your campus.
9. Have more fun than you’ve ever had.
Believe it or not, this time of our lives come with not only the least responsibility and stress, but also the most friends and fun. Schoolwork will always be stressful, and it will consume a majority of your time; but you have to take a step back and ask yourself if you’re having fun. Whether fun means going out to the bars with friends, going to a beach, or spending a night in with your best friends, make sure you have fun!
I’ve always found myself missing the previous year(s) whenever a new school year comes around. Now that I am finally a senior, I can proudly say that I’ve reflected and learned all of these things—sometimes the hard way. I’ve learned to love a school that kicks my sorry little butt, appreciate my campus and city, get involved and make some amazing friends along the way. Please enjoy being in school while you can—it doesn’t last as long as you think.