You’ve made it to college! This is going to be the best four years of your life. Now, where are the parties?? Well, slow down there. Let’s establish some—let’s say, “order.” I don’t really know your background, whether you’re a transfer student or an incoming freshman, but you have one thing in common: newfound independence. Not a lot of people are aware, but your freshman year is the most important year of your college career. If you do it right, you can set yourself up for success in your later years.
Get Involved!
Get involved as early as you can, and now would be the best time. There are so many benefits to getting involved right now because you have so much room and opportunity. Whether that be campus organizations or internships to add to or build onto your resume, start early! This will give you breathing room in your junior and senior year when things get a little hectic.
The Importance of Academics
I’m going to tell you a little secret… listen very closely: your first-year grades set your GPA for the rest of your time in college. So, if you decide to skip class or turn a blind eye to the three assignments you have due at 11:59 p.m. the night of the huge frat party, guess what? Be ready to claw yourself out of a hole for the rest of the three years you have left.
So instead, practice discipline. There will be one thousand more parties to make up for the one you skipped out on. Or, if you absolutely can’t miss it, finish those assignments a couple of hours before the function and reward yourself with a night out. Partying feels so much better stress-free.
Your Tribe Will Come!
I transferred to my university spring semester, meaning that in fall semester, everyone had already found their friend group and tribe. That made me feel so much more alone than I was already feeling. Trust me, I know the feeling, and I am here to tell you that your tribe will come. It’ll just take a little longer if you don’t do your part as well—and your part is to SPEAK. Everyone is just as shy and reserved as you are. Start off small, like a cute compliment, say hi, introduce yourself, and don’t overthink it.
Save, Save, Save
With your newfound independence comes responsibility, and we want to beat the “broke college student” stigma. Write down all your necessities and create a savings plan based on your needs.
- You can apply to local jobs in your area, and a tip is to visit in person and inquire about a position.
- Apply to work-studies on your campus; we want some income coming in to provide for yourself.
This point in your life can help you gain financial independence from your parents and teach you financial literacy, which is so important in your adult life.
This wraps up the tips! Have an amazing semester.