When you first arrive at college, it is completely normal to feel like a deer in headlights. Unfamiliar people, different types of classes, and experiences that put you out of your comfort zone can be ridiculously overwhelming. Luckily, I’ve learned a thing or two within my time at college, and I wish someone had told me these things as a scared little freshman. Here are five things no one tells you about college life:
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Professors aren’t all that scary. Remember when your high school teachers told you that this or that “won’t fly in college”? Well, they’re lying. I once had a professor cancel class simply because he felt like it. Professors are humans too! They aren’t as scary as they are made out to be, and are oftentimes way easier on you than high school teachers! So, introduce yourself to them, ask questions, and become their friend.
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You WILL get sick. Like… a lot. When you move into your dorm room, make sure you pack plenty of vitamin C and cold medicine. You are around more people in college than you may ever be around in your entire life! If one sick person goes to class, illness can spread like wildfire. Wash those hands and prepare to care for yourself when you catch a bad cold.
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You’ll have to learn how to sleep with background noise. I was in for a rude awakening (literally) when I discovered that my next door neighbor in my dorm preferred to do her homework at night while blasting hard rap. The list of dormitory horror stories about noisy neighbors is endless. Bring some ear plugs! You will thank yourself later.
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If you don’t read your emails, you’re screwed. You are going to hate yourself if you force your body out of bed and walk into class only to see that you are the only person there. Teachers oftentimes cancel classes or switch the meeting to an online format for the day. Every college student should check their emails every day.
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The bus system is both your best and worst friend. It’s amazing when the bus saves you from a rainy walk on campus, but don’t get too comfortable! Many times, busses run behind schedule or can be too full to let more passengers on the ride. If you rely on the bus system every day, you may be late to class. Always leave yourself enough time to walk!
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