It seems that just yesterday was freshman move-in day with hundreds of anxious freshmen engaging in small talk as emotionally unstable parents waved goodbye. And now, I find myself already halfway done with my first semester of college. Time had its own agenda, moving at a pace too rapid or recognizable for any human to comprehend. Suddenly, all of my hard work had manifested itself into tangible letter grades and professor feedback. I felt immense satisfaction with my work ethic and study habits thus far, although, I still felt an unsettling sensation I could not pinpoint. I soon realized it was my discovery that time really does fly, and I will only have these moments and experiences once.
Many would scoff at the idea that any freshman at midterm first semester could possibly have any sage advice to offer to their counterparts, but I disagree. I feel that being in college for a mere two months has completely transformed me as an individual. Change doesn’t happen overnight, yet it is so subtle that sometimes we fail to notice it. Here are the three biggest lessons I have learned so far.
My first observation is that the people around you are important- oftentimes more than we think. The people and personalities we elect to spend our time and energy on naturally become a part of our own identity. In August, tears burned in my eyes as my friends left one by one for college. I could not imagine my life without those who shaped my childhood and adolescent years. I have learned that going to college does not equate to a loss of these friendships, but rather a unique opportunity to foster them from a distance. Despite our jam-packed schedules, I have never been closer to my friends from home. We are separated by rivers, roads, and miles- and yet this only compels us to prioritize communication even more. When you enter college, you essentially are choosing a new group of people to be a part of. I would tell any incoming freshman that people are perhaps the most important aspect of college. You may not remember your final grade in Biology or what you wore each day, but you will undoubtedly remember the people who surrounded you. Choose to spend your time with people who genuinely love and support you unconditionally- it will make your college years worth remembering.
Secondly, I have noticed the importance of gratitude each day. When the demands of college become too overwhelming, I remember just how lucky I am to attend college in the first place- especially at a school that I deeply love. As I miss my friends and family from home, I note that I have the ability to call or text them at just about any time. In the rare moments in which sadness or anxiety threaten to take over, I look to the strong support system I have managed to build and cannot help but feel a sense of relief. Take time each day to sit with yourself in appreciation. Think about that delicious comfort meal you had or that time when you laughed so hard with your friend that your stomach ached. When your mind is a positive place, you will consequently view your experiences in a better light.
If I have learned anything else from being in college for half of a semester, it is that it is beneficial, and often necessary, to ask for help. You will be surrounded by a multitude of people each day. It may appear that some of them are full-fledged adults- with jobs, responsibilities, and wise words to offer. I’ll let you in on a secret: they too have struggles and barriers they face each day. No one is perfect. Knowing this, I would say that you can never ask enough questions. There is always something to be learned. Take advantage of the resources your college campus provides, possibly by visiting a writing lab or contacting a tutor. Chances are you are spending a fair amount of money on your education. Do not let fear or embarrassment stand between you and maximizing your college experience. The first step to obtaining knowledge is always by asking questions.
We’re almost there- halfway through the first semester. You have survived all of your hardest days thus far, and you will continue to do so. By building a strong social circle, living in the present moment, and seeking help when needed, you can focus on what is important to you in college and beyond. Happy learning!