As May 1 approaches and the Class of 2026 awaits the infamous “Decision Day,” I wanted to provide a list of my top college takeaways from this past year as a freshman at Florida State University.
1. You NEED Snapchat.
There is no simpler way to put it—make sure when you step on campus that the app is downloaded on your phone. It’s not necessarily required, but highly recommended. If you’ve had it deleted since middle school, reinstall it. Approximately 99 percent of all the people you meet, especially in the first few weeks, will ask for your Snapchat. I had barely used Snapchat before I got to college, but I was using it like there’s no tomorrow within the first week. This app may be childish to some, but to stay in the loop and connect with new people, this app is truly necessary.
2. You might miss home more than you think (and that’s okay).
Depending on who you are, there’s definitely at least one point in college where you will start to miss home. While college might have the freedom you’ve been craving for so long and a chance to start fresh, the feeling of missing your family, house, bed and even not wearing shower slippers is inevitable. This feeling, however, is completely normal and you shouldn’t feel ashamed for wanting to return home every now and again.
3. Don’t expect to be best friends with everyone you meet.
Throughout college, especially during your first semester of freshman year, you will be meeting an overwhelming amount of people. In the first few weeks, everyone will try so hard to make friends and find their “group.” It’s completely natural to want these friendships earlier than later, but it’s important to not get too attached to each individual that you cross paths with. The reality is that not everyone’s personality is compatible and you really can’t force a friendship. Your true friends will come over time as your first year progresses and you will eventually get close to those you fully trust.
4. Determine whether or not you really want or need a meal plan.
This is so important because now your finances are involved. It’s no surprise that universities charge thousands for a meal plan per semester. Whether or not the money is worth it depends on what you seek as a new student on-campus. Several factors should be considered before buying a meal plan such as your proximity to the dining hall, the average amount of meals you eat in a day, your dietary needs, etc. I would also highly recommend trying the dining hall food at least once before you pick any sort of plan.
5. Decorate your dorm to your liking.
While this seems like a given, I think it’s so essential to make your dorm or living space like a personal sanctuary. As of now, I spend quite a lot of time in my dorm whether it be to study, relax or even hang out with my friends. I love having a space that feels comfortable to me and a space I want to be in. Also, when you first get to your dorm freshman year, it will be very bland. Spicing the space up even with just a few pictures, plants and cute bedding can make all the difference.
6. Attend campus events.
This takeaway is key for getting involved with what your campus has to offer. At on-campus events, you will constantly get to meet people, try something new and get out of your comfort zone. They are always fun and can allow you to get acquainted with your college’s student life.
7. Start freshman year in the summer (if you can).
Now, for this last takeaway, I will not hide the fact that I am a tad biased. I will say, though, starting college the summer of my freshman year was the best decision I ever made. Starting in the summer gives you a chance to get situated with your campus, find friends that you can carry into the fall and just slowly transition into the college lifestyle. While I know this option may not be for everyone, I would highly consider it when determining your college start term.
While there are so many more points I could add to this list, these are some of the top takeaways I have accumulated from my past year as a freshman. No matter what, just remember to always stay true to who you are, and you will hopefully gain the full college experience you desperately desire.
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