To the girl who is about to start her freshman year, hi! I was sitting in your seat a short year ago (it feels like yesterday), and I know the feelings you have. You’re a combination of excitement, anxiousness, nervousness and hopefulness, and you’re a little bit overwhelmed. I was too. You’re starting a Pinterest board for dorm inspiration and looking up how you’re going to get involved on campus. I was too. You’re stalking your roomie on Instagram and praying you will get along. I was too. Here’s what I wish I knew when I was, well, you!
To the girl who is about to start her freshman year, please let go of your expectations.
In high school, our perceptions of college are shaped by Instagram posts and what we’ve heard from current students. We basically only know what we see from others. Something I’ve found to be so important for me is learning to create my own story. There are endless paths you can take in college so have an open mind and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.
To the girl who is about to start her freshman year, come prepared.
When I prepared for college, I thought of every scenario that I could face and what I’d need for it … and I still forgot things. The CVS on the edge of campus will be your best friend. Buy yourself some game day clothes and research how to get involved, but don’t stress! Your first semester will feel like a whirlwind but you’ll make it through.
To the girl who is about to start her freshman year, learn to be confident.
Because there are so many paths you can take in college, it’ll be easy for you to compare your life to others: to your roommate, to other girls from your high school. Learn to look beyond that. Believe in yourself and make your experience what you want it to be. Don’t worry about everyone else.
To the girl who is about to start her freshman year, take a deep breath.
I know change is scary and you have a million questions. Take a deep breath and trust you’ll figure it out.
Image Courtesy: Pinterest
To the girl who is about to start her freshman year, you’re not alone.
The best part of going to a big school is knowing that no matter what happens, there are thousands of other students going through the same thing. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help and talk to each other. Everyone is just trying to figure it out just like you!
To the girl who is about to start her freshman year, get ready for the best four years of your life.
The FSU experience is like no other. The feeling you get on game days or even just strolling through campus will make all the stress worth it. You’re going to meet your best friends and create memories that will last a lifetime. Study hard but enjoy everything this school has to offer! Even with three finals and a huge essay to complete, I couldn’t love this school more.