It’s that time of year: thousands of college students across the country are submitting their last assignments, saying goodbye to their closest friends and looking forward to their long-awaited graduation day. As a senior at Florida State University, I have been reflecting on my own experience, wondering what I would tell myself if I could advise my freshman-year-self. This week, I asked some of my closest friends what their biggest piece of advice for college students would be.
“Don’t compare yourself to those around you. Everyone has their own journey, and the best way to walk yours is to focus on your growth.” – Jalicia Lewis
“I would encourage everyone to use a favorite quote of mine: ‘Be the source of what you hope to attract to your life.’ Give out good energy into the world, enjoy college, and build relationships that are going to last you a lifetime!” – Caleb Dawkins
“Academics and involvements are important, but always make time for yourself, the people around you, and your passions. Don’t commit yourself to people and things that don’t light your fire.” – Paige Duskie
“Always remember to cherish the experiences you are afforded! It is important that we recognize this time as an opportunity for growth and a time to make memories.” – William Cutts
“Don’t take a single moment for granted. You never know what’s going to happen, so make the most of everything. Go on tons of adventures with your friends, go to office hours and talk to professors, and get everything you can out of your experience at FSU so you can leave feeling fulfilled and with no regret.” – Jobe McDermott
“Take the time to find your voice while you’re in college. You have such important things to contribute to Florida State and the world; do not allow your voice to be silenced. Always stand up for yourself.” – Demetrius Winn
“Your time at FSU is what you make of it, so be willing to put yourself out there and try new things! You never really know how joining that one club or going to that one event can change your entire college experience.” – Michael Hazan
“Manage time the best you can! When you get your syllabus, make a list of when everything is due and try to plan out when you’ll accomplish tasks. Also, try not to worry too much about an assignment or test because everything will be okay in the end!” – Chris Zahora
And finally, my own advice to college students is: “Don’t be afraid of failure. Or change. Some of my most beautiful memories came after moments of darkness. Put yourself out there and don’t look back. One day, you’ll look back on your college experience and realize that everything happened for a reason.”
Congratulations to the class of 2020! Good luck on all future endeavors!
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