It’s gotten to that point where reality has caught up to me and I have realized that I’m graduating in May of this year. And now, I’m questioning where did time go and reflecting on my years here at UVA. Due to this very adult like reflection of my life (woo hoo go me, 21 and such wise), I decided to make this post about sharing a couple things I regretted not realizing earlier. I hope my wisdom isn’t too basic (I know it is, but they’re important things to take into consideration) and that you add these to your life- young grasshopper.
(photo courtesy of pinterest.com)
1. Be Confident
It took me a long time to feel 100% in my own skin at UVA. I’m not saying that you get into college and should already know who you are exactly because… you really shouldn’t, that’s why college exists. BUT, be confident in yourself. Be confident in your decisions. Set your own goals and don’t follow everyone else’s.
I think the hardest thing about college is trying not to compare yourself to everyone around you. I always thought I didn’t work hard enough, but that’s not true! I just have a different way of working. Just because I wasn’t at the library until 2 am doesn’t mean that I didn’t work as hard- I just was working at 6 am instead of staying up till super late. So, just because you’re not part of the coolest club on grounds or don’t have the most glamorous internship does NOT mean that you’re less than. You’re just a different profile and bring different things to the table!
2. No one knows what they’re doing.
This is the best one to know. It hit me when I was talking to someone that I found super impressive because they were killing it in class, had a great internship, etc. but then they came up to me and were telling me how stressed they were and how they wanted to have my resume and opportunities.
That’s when it hit me: everyone is stressed about the future and what life is bringing their way. So, be it that you’re in search of a major, internship or a job (haha join the club… seriously, someone hire me), just remember: you aren’t alone in your stress! Seek solace in the fact that you’re your own harshest critic- so try to take it easy on yourself from time to time!
3. Take advantage of all of your opportunities!
Honestly, so true. It’s fourth year and I’m only now truly realizing how many different unique opportunities there are at UVA. So this bullet point is short and sweet: just go out there and take advantage of whatever interests you!
4. Get to know your Professors.
I totally didn’t do this and I wish I had. I just had so many big lectures and never really bothered to go into office hours with the professors to be one on one- but that’s dumb! They’re there for you, to help and get to know you! Professors are such a great resource and getting to know them will definitely enrich your time in college.
5. Realize who’s worth it and who’s not.
Ah adulthood… realizing who is actually worth remaining friends with and who isn’t. It’s college, so you have to make the shitty friendships and the fake ones as well as the real and amazing ones. My golden rule is that if I leave the person and I feel better and happier about myself then, they’re a keeper. Just make sure you aren’t surrounding yourself with people that are mentally and physically draining you. Life is short so surround yourself with only the greatest.
(photo courtesy of huffingtonpost.com)