I’ve learned a lot so far in college, and I don’t just mean educational things.
I’ve learned that it’s okay to be alone. As much as you like your friends, you don’t have to be together all the time. You find your inner self when you’re alone. You can concentrate, or just be at peace. Although the craziness and laughs are contagious and healthy, it doesn’t hurt to stray from what everyone else is doing once in awhile.
I’ve learned that it’s okay to not wear the outfit or put the makeup on. I dressed up every day in high school, but people really do not care what you look like (unless you’re giving a presentation). If people are judging you based on your outside appearance, they probably don’t value your personality; and you shouldn’t want to be friends with someone like that anyway.
I’ve learned that it is perfectly okay to say “no” to something or someone. And you don’t have to justify why. You don’t have to make up an excuse or give them reason. You just don’t. You can say no and not feel guilty. Although it takes courage to do that, it’s not wrong.
I’ve learned that people change and they are unpredictable. That’s all I have to tell you on that one. That’s the way it is.
I’ve learned that if you don’t like something, don’t do it. Plain and simple. If something doesn’t make YOU happy, don’t do it. You really don’t have to do anything, especially if it just causes stress.
I’ve learned that as much as we get so annoyed with our family now because we’ve lived with them every day for the past 18 years or so, you appreciate them more than you think. I’m not gonna go into detail because I hated when people said stuff like that to me, but you get what I’m saying.
And you know what else I’ve learned? This is hard. Being away from everyone and home. Not knowing a single person, having to make all new friends, and basically starting over is hard; but it becomes easier when someone else gives you words of wisdom. So that’s what I’m doing for you.. giving you some advice. I’m sure you’ve heard all of this before, but do everything, go everywhere, don’t hold anything back, wear what you want, eat what you want, and say what you want. Just be you (at BU)!