College can feel like the most overwhelming time in the world. As you grow out of your high school habits and settle into your new adulthood, it can all feel like too much. After all, Ferris Bueller really wasn’t lying when he said, “life comes at you fast.”
The truth is that college flies by the same way that high school did, and the growth and experiences that accompany it are only deepened. Take it from an upcoming college grad that as valuable as some college life lessons can be, others are just plain myths.
As you consider your time in college, whether it’s past, present, or future, make sure to always put yourself first. The college experience can feel lonely, and it’s essential to stay true to who you are. This is particularly true when you’re growing and maturing through some very significant years.
Sometimes, you don’t realize situations while you’re living them. That’s why it’s vital to step back, take a deep breath, and remind yourself that everyone’s going through the exact same thing as you! Below are the 4 most impactful things I’ve learned in my time in college.
1. You don’t really have to meet your “forever friends.”
This one was a big realization for me. I always felt like going to college would mean that I would find my people, my future bridesmaids, and all that.
But the truth is that it’s not realistic and that although some people will definitely be in your life forever, don’t expect everyone to be.
2. You can join an organization, then decide you don’t like it.
When I joined my first big major organization freshman year, I had a great time. But as time went on, I found myself outgrowing it in the end.
There’s nothing wrong with that and you shouldn’t feel guilty for wanting to leave something that no longer serves you.
3. Changing your major is not the worst thing ever.
This is something I haven’t done personally, but have had many friends do and freak out over it. Changing your major, especially early on, is actually not that big of a deal.
Plenty of people come to college without a major in the first place, so you’re not falling behind at all!
4. You won’t be the same person you were when you started – and that’s okay.
You won’t realize this right away because the change is so gradual, but eventually, you’ll find yourself growing from the person you used to be, in the best way.
Growing up isn’t always easy or comfortable but your sum of experiences, struggles, and failures will have prepared you to take on the world.
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