I’m a senior this semester, and with graduation just under a few weeks away, I’ve been very sentimental lately. My sorority does this thing for graduating seniors where their friends can make them a cute little video of all their memories from the past four years. I’ve been lucky enough to get to help make a few of my friend’s videos and while going through my camera roll, I’ve realized a lot.
College was the longest but also shortest four years of my life. I’ve made so many mistakes but also so many amazing decisions and looking back at all the memories, I’ve figured out 10 things that I’ve learned while being in college.
- It’s okay to not want to go out every weekend
Going out at least once, whether it be to the frats or the bars or both, is definitely a must while in school. With that being said, it definitely isn’t something you need to do every single weekend. Having a chill weekend and watching movies, baking and catching up on homework is still really important and something you should do every once in a while. Moral of the story: it’s ok to take a breather.
- True friends stick with you no matter what
I’ve had the unfortunate experience of going through several friendship breakups throughout college. It sucks, but just remember that the people who are meant to be in your life will always stick by you. Friends are either here for a season or a reason.
- It’s ok to not be friends with your roommates after the year is over
I personally am not friends with at least one roommate from all four years of college. My freshman/sophomore roommate and I just didn’t see eye-to-eye anymore. One of my junior year roommates had a falling out and then one of my current roommates and I just don’t like each other. It may suck at the moment, but it’s ok that we’re not friends. Not everyone is going to stay friends.
- Take a mental health day
Especially if you feel overwhelmed by even the littlest things, it’s ok to take a day to yourself. Your friends will understand and in most cases even help you treat yourself. Professors too are a lot more understanding than most people give them credit for so if you need a day just ask!
- Not everyone is going to be as kind as you are
This one was a hard one for me to learn. Another piece of advice that goes with this one would be to put in the same amount of effort as they put into you. If you want to hang out with someone and text them asking but they never respond, I know it can be hard but remember that. Don’t let people just walk over you because you deserve a lot more than that.
- Friends change and that’s ok
Sometimes you’re only friends with certain people because it’s convenient or you have something timely in common. Eventually, that common ground might go away and with it the friendship might too. This isn’t always the case but when it is, you need to know that it’s ok. Not everyone is meant to be friends for a long time. Again sometimes people are only in your life for a season.
- Take classes you’ll actually enjoy
We all know that there are certain gen-eds that literally everyone needs to take. That’s fine but if you’re going to take a class, make sure you’re actually going to want to go. Make sure your professor is fun and has good reviews. Make sure it’s at a time in the day when you won’t be tired. Above all, make sure it’s on material that you’re actually interested in learning about.
- Participate in EVERYTHING
Being in a sorority, there was so much that I could get involved in. As a senior, I’m kinda sad at some of the stuff I missed. Do as much as you can both in class and out. Some of my favorite college memories have happened just this semester alone and it’s because I don’t care what people think of me anymore. At the end of the day, it’s a memory.
- Meal plans are lowkey good
One of my best friends has a meal plan right now as a senior and honestly, I think that that is so smart. There is literally so much to do and buy as a senior and not having to worry about food would have been a plus. Even if you get made fun of, having a meal plan is basically having free money so I highly recommend it.
- Take advantage of all your resources
Once you graduate, all the perks and benefits of being in college are gone. Make sure you’re taking advantage of all the student discounts, access to websites and applications, and just the overall niceness of campus.
I’m very thankful for the time I’ve been able to spend in college. It’s been one of the best times of my life and I’m really glad that I can share some advice/learning experiences with others.