Happy Tuesday collegiettes! I’m excited to finally give you all the scoop about this lovely little book I received last week:
As a super senior in my tenth (!) semester (I thought I’d be so much more grown up by now), I can say I honestly wish I could’ve had a guide like this to help me with everything from studying abroad to the dirty details about drinking and partying. Navigating life as a new collegiette isn’t always easy, and I can say from experience that I learned the hard way many a time. After flipping through The Her Campus Guide to College Life and learning a few new things myself, here’s my personal list of stuff I wish I would’ve known much earlier–brought to you by this little gem of a read.
1. Unhealthy relationships can happen in many different forms.
When I see a chapter titled “Unhealthy Relationships” I automatically think of domestic abuse (which is totally messed up BTW). Unhealthy relationships don’t only occur between romantic partners, however. Sometimes, these toxic relationships can happen where you least expect them. For example, it might be your high school BFF or your college roommate. This chapter identifies the red flags to look out for from the romantic partner who only calls on weekend nights to the “friend” who brings you down.
2. How to deal with roommates.
I can be kind of awkward, shy and overly non-confrontational, so this chapter would’ve really come in handy my freshman year. Complete with an activity list for bonding with new roommates, tips on how to deal with common roommate issues, and even a four page roomie contract, even the most clueless collegiette can become an expert.
3. The ins and outs of sexual health.
Have you ever wondered which type of birth control is right for you? Are you unsure as to how to go about getting birth control? Do you want to know the warning signs of common STIs but feel too embarrassed to ask someone? Have you found a trusted gynecologist? Are you tired of these questions? If so, this chapter, “Sexual Health,” has all the answers so you’ll never have to ask again!
4. How seriously important it is to read up on mental health.
The chapter on mental health addresses the whole “best years of your life” myth and confronts the uncomfortable truth: college is a time in which stress, anxiety, depression, and homesickness can consume your life. I’m learning firsthand how scary it is to enter post-college life, and I’m also noticing how this fear impacts the lives of my friends, too. Not only does this chapter outline the signs to look for in your own well-being, it also gives awesome advice on how to be there for a struggling friend through communication advice and seriously helpful resources for any mental health emergencies.
5. How to land a great job or internship.
*Bites nails, cries, crumbles, drops out, dies* AKA, my daily life. But really, UW-L’s Career Services is a great resource for students who need help assembling a resume and/or cover letter, or even for those who just need learn how to start searching for jobs. While some professors and majors prepare their students for life after college (which actually does exist) others of us are left completely clueless. It’s easy to get anxiety from just the thought of reading this chapter, but in the long run it is far more beneficial to just be in the know.
Interested in snatching up your own copy? Head to hercampus.com/book and order yours today!