Dear Future Hokie,
I remember the anxiety and excitement I had before coming to Tech, so this is what I have to tell you. College is fun but it’s also stressful. Don’t wait until the last minute to start your four-hour-long assignment or five-page paper. I’ve done that before and trust me, it didn’t help. Schedule your days ahead of time but leave room for spontaneity. College is not only about getting your degree but having some fun. Mistakes will be made, so don’t beat yourself up too much. You need to learn from the mistakes you make, that’s how you grow. Don’t push yourself too hard in college. Burnout is real and the more you push yourself, the quicker you will start to feel the burnout. Pace yourself and all will fall into place. Not everyone will like you. I have always known this but it can still be hard for me to grasp this. Sometimes personalities will clash but that’s okay. I know it can be hard to think that people won’t like you but it’s so normal.
Not everyone you meet during your first year will always be your friend. I know this can be hard to hear, especially if you come into college with the mindset that you will meet your best friend for life within your first year of college. For some people that can happen but for others, it may take a few years. Don’t let that scare you, there are so many people on this campus, so you will make friends. Try new things when you come here. I was sick a lot during my first year here and missed out on a lot. There is so much to do at Tech and Gobblerfest is a great place to find clubs and organizations to join. Go to games! All of the games can be so fun to go to. I love going to the basketball and football games the most, but the soccer games have also been fun to go to! Don’t feel bad for going home! It’s always hard for some people especially during their first semester because they get homesick so take a trip home when you can. College is a fun experience and can be hard sometimes but it’s important to make the most of it. Don’t let people ruin your experience and don’t push yourself too hard. Once you get here, you will learn from your own mistakes and experiences. Like iCarly once said, “live life, breathe air, somehow I know we’re gonna get there.”
Best wishes,
Katie