That’s right, I’ve been living in a dorm and eating dining hall food for three whole months. Along the way, I’ve picked up some valuable lessons — including things I’m glad I chose to do and things that, if I had the chance to redo, I would do differently.
My advice to any college freshman is to not overdo the extracurriculars. Don’t overload yourself with too many clubs! In high school, I did everything from social to academic to athletic clubs, and I thought I could carry this into college with me. I went to every booth at my school’s club fairs and racked up a mile-long list of organizations I wanted to join. While it’s good to get out of your comfort zone and meet new people in different spheres of life, don’t stretch yourself thin, especially during your first semester.
Instead, focus on taking care of yourself and working on your classes. Assignments are not as easy as they were in high school and your grades are a lot more important. Don’t stress yourself out with all the opportunities out there on campus, rather create a routine, get used to your new environment and spend time making this important shift in your life before jumping into everything around you.
One thing I love about college so far is my friends, a remarkable group of people that I do everything with. A great way to do this is to talk to people in your classes, make an effort to meet the people in your hall and attend welcome events once you get to campus. Keep in touch with people by getting Instagrams, phone numbers and Snapchats. And, while I love my group of friends dearly, I recommend making as many friends as possible. People will come and go and groups can change fast, so put yourself in circles where you feel welcome and happy.
On the same note of finding people who are important to you, it’s common advice to not jump into a relationship right when you get to college. This point has merits as you can get your feet underneath yourself and figure yourself out before dating. It makes sense, but I also think finding my partner once I got to college was one of the best things for me to feel like I really belong here. If you can find someone who makes you feel happy, supported and loved, I say go for it!
It’s important to also take care of yourself at college. Get connected with your school’s mental health resources early, not just as soon as you realize you need them. Scheduling can be tough and resources are often backed up or understaffed, so it’s important to get the help you need early to stay at your best as you adjust to this transition.
Finally, call your parents. I know, you just spent the last eighteen or so years with them. You’re ready to live life for yourself, but don’t feel like you have to cut them off just because “you’re independent now.” Maybe don’t call them frantically asking for a reminder about how to do your laundry every week or only to ask for money. But call them, keep them updated and tell them stories. They miss you, and, as much as you don’t want to admit it, you miss them too.