We’ve all seen the movies about college life. Accepted, Animal House, and Legally Blonde are just a few familiar titles. But is college life really like these Hollywood hits? I’m here with my rendition of my freshman year rewind: expectations versus reality.
Expectation 1: It won’t be hard to keep good grades
Reality: College classes are more difficult than high school classes. In college you need to stay on top of things and do your best. Even though homework may not be collected for credit, it’s important to do it so you understand all of the course’s concepts. Especially after week 5 of the quarter, motivation tends to be lost. You need to balance going out and study time. It will be beneficial in the long run.
Expectation 2: Gaining the Freshman 15 would be really hard
Reality: From a girl who once said “it’s gotta be really hard to gain 15 pounds in one year,” comes this response: wrong. Although I did not actually gain the dreaded freshman 15, I realized that it could be easier than I had imagined. From many selections at the dining halls to GoodFella’s, Big Mama’s, and DP Dough on the weekends, all that food can really add up. It’s perfectly okay to indulge once and while, but make sure you do physical activity to keep your health in check.
Expectation 3: I won’t miss home
Reality: After lame dining hall meals, shower shoes, and laundry malfunctions, you will want to go home. It’s always nice to get a home cooked meal and free laundry services. Getting back to your roots can really be a nice change. Common weekends to go home are parents weekends (if they’re not coming to see you) and Memorial Day weekend. After stressful quarters, it’s nice to get back home and spend time with your family.
Expectation 4: I won’t want to change majors
Reality: It was about half way through the school year when I felt I was lost in the academic world. Although I am still currently a journalism major, my area of focus has changed greatly. I came in wanting to be a sports broadcaster, and here I am writing for an online magazine. I was always the girl who has been dead set in her ways. College is the place where you’re supposed to explore your likes and dislikes. If you are not feeling right about your major, explore other options. That is what college is for!
Expectation 5: Money won’t be an issue
Reality: Being a freshman I expected to eat every meal in the dining hall, due to expensive meal plans. I only thought I would spend five dollars or so on the weekends. Wrong! From cute school apparel to late night pizza binges, the money in my bank account soon was drained. Not to mention looking for a job wasn’t the easiest thing, either. And when I found one for spring, the weather limited my time to working only one shift! I recommend snagging a job at home over winter break and to work as much as you can over summer. I’ve learned to create a budget and not to be afraid to ask my parents for a little money help once and awhile. If you can find a job around campus, really consider it. From books to pizza, you’ll blow through money fast!
Overall, my first year experience at Ohio University has been one to remember. I’ve learned a lot about myself and the world around me. People say that college is the time to grow up and become an adult, and I am realizing that. Although with college comes responsibility, I’ve also learned to let my hair down every once and awhile. Work hard, play hard. I’m sure I’ll have just as many expectations for next year, and I cannot wait to see if they become a reality.