HC’s Most Important Lessons from Freshman Year

We are now in the final stretch of the school year.  Can you believe it?!  As summer approaches, I find everyone around me in a constant state of frenzy over packing, summer jobs, final exams and last goodbyes.  This year has truly flown by in the blink of an eye.  Before you sink into the depths of sadness, remember that with every ending there comes newfound knowledge and experiences to reflect on!  After much reminiscing and rehashing of memories, here are the most important things that I have learned from my freshman year. 

1.Work hard, but make sure to allow yourself to relax!
There will inevitably be times when you find yourself drowning in a sea of unfinished work while all of your friends go out.  Of course, you should always put effort into doing your academic best, but recognize that sometimes it’s okay to opt for a fun night out instead of a night in with you and your books.  You’re only in college once, so live a little!

2. Make friends outside of the people on your freshman floor
Your freshman floor is one of the greatest parts of the freshman experience, and it basically gives you a built-in set of friends who are always conveniently close if you want to hang out.  However, it’s very easy to get stuck in your own little world and only rely on your friends who live next to you.  Make sure to meet other people around campus too!  If you venture out of your comfort zone, you’ll find that there are so many people who are just as interesting and fun to be around!

3. Don’t feel bad if you’re not actively involved on campus yet!
Freshman year is hectic: there’s a lot to adjust to, and you meet an overwhelming amount of new people all at once.  If you find that you didn’t have time to get involved in many campus activities, don’t stress.  You have 3 more years!

4. Don’t feel pressure to know what you want to study or do with your life
It may seem like you’re the only one who hasn’t figured out your life plan.  But don’t worry, there are so many people who have absolutely no idea!  Self-discovery is exactly what college is for.

5. Take good care of yourself
Always put your health first!  Because you are living in such close vicinity with so many people, it’s very easy to get sick.  Make sure to get enough sleep, eat healthy and exercise. 

Freshman year, it’s been fun.  Here’s to an awesome summer and the next 3 years!