1. If you make an effort, you’ll still be in contact with those at home:
At the beginning of the year, I was scared about how well I would be able to keep relationships with those at home. If you and whoever it may be at home put the time and effort into keeping your relationship going and work through distance and schedule problems, you should have nothing to worry about.
2. If you have a job, you’re still going to be broke:
Upon getting my job on campus, I thought I was going to be set with my finances. I figured if I had an income, I should be fine. Right? No matter how much you work while in college, you will still be broke. Between paying off your tuition and fees, paying for textbooks, and buying groceries for yourself and leisure shopping, you will watch your money go down the drain. I learned to be smart about keeping track of my finances and how much money I was willing to let myself spend.
3. Get out of your comfort zone:
Allowing myself to get out of my comfort zone has made me grow tremendously as a person and get to know different people around campus. As much as you may think you’ll never want to talk to anyone, you will get to know those who will soon become your friends and it will push you to put yourself out there.
4. DO NOT procrastinate:
In high school I was never really a procrastinator. Even starting my first semester of college I was pretty good about getting my work done. As time went on, I began to procrastinate and put off work for classes that I didn’t necessarily like as much. I soon realized that putting off work in college was not a good idea. College and high school are two very different things. If you could get away with it in high school, you most likely will not be able to get away with it in college.
5. Get Involved:
Once you get to college, you’ll realize how much free time you really have. There will be days when you have absolutely nothing to do. Finding something to get involved in whether it be a club, sport, or taking a weekly zumba class, will help you fill up some free time and help you meet new people!
6. Time Flies:
If you thought high school went by quick, wait until you get to college. Your freshman year will feel 10 times faster than your whole high school career and time will only get faster from here.
7. Have Fun!:
If you’re living on campus, you’re finally able to live on your own and be independent. Moving away from home for the first time is very nerve wracking and can be super stressful. During this time allow yourself to make your own smart decisions and do whatever you want, within reason. This is the only chance you’ll get, make the most of it while you can!