Before going to college, I felt like every person I talked to had some kind of advice to give about college. A lot of it was things like “College is going to be the best experience of your life!” or “College is so much work, good luck”. However, after my first year, I began to realize that there is a lot that people aren’t talking about. So I’m here to get brutally honest with things I wish people had told me before I went to college.
1. College boys are just as gross as high school boys
I can’t be the only one who thought that the boys in college were going to be more mature, unique, genuine, etc. But that is not true at all. College boys are just as capable of being jerks or breaking hearts as the dumb boys you left behind in high school. So look out for yourself and be careful who you give your heart to.
2. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t make friends right away
It took me a few months to make some solid friends. Going to college and moving away from the people you’ve grown up with can be difficult. There were days during my first semester when I felt alone because I was so far away from my friends back home. But a strong friendship takes time to build, so don’t sweat it. Plus, the friends you make right away don’t always stick around. And everyone is just as worried about making friends as you, so don’t be afraid to reach out to new people.
3. Don’t compare yourself to the lives of others (especially based off of social media posts)
Throughout the first few months of my freshman year, so many people were posting fun pictures of themselves laughing with their new best friends or cute candids on spontaneous adventures. I thought that I was doing something wrong, because I spent most of my time alone in the library doing homework. But social media posts rarely show the entire story. The girls posting happy pictures might be extremely homesick just like you, or the spontaneous adventures might be after hours of doing homework. Everyone will have good moments, just be patient. Don’t get frustrated if it seems that everyone is having a blast while you’re struggling. I can confidently say that you are not alone in your struggles.
4. It doesn’t matter what you wear
Sweatpants? Leggings? A fancy dress? Pajamas? Any fashion style is acceptable in college. In one of my 8am classes, some students would show up in baggy pajamas and oversized hoodies while others would come to class with a face full of makeup and the cutest dresses you’ve ever seen. The best part is that no one judges. Everyone is in class to learn, not to judge whether or not the person sitting next to them is wearing fashionable clothes or not. So wear what makes you comfortable and get ready to learn!
5. Not all roommates are the perfect match
Don’t be worried if you and your roommate aren’t a match made in heaven. Some people are roomie soulmates, and some can’t stand each other. If you and your roommate have tried to peacefully coexist and it just isn’t working, don’t be afraid to talk to an RA to see if they could mediate the issues or move you into a new room.
6. You don’t NEED a bunch of college shirts and sweatshirts
The school store may have some super cute clothes, but no one is going to judge you if you don’t have all the school shirts the store has to offer. We’re all broke college kids and it’s alright to not spend the money on sweatpants when you can get them cheaper somewhere else.
7. Go to conferences or speakers on campus
A lot of colleges hold conferences or invite speakers to campus. Some of these events are for specific majors and some are campus-wide. Some professors even offer extra credit if you attend them. Whether you are able to get extra credit or not, I strongly suggest going to some conferences! This is a great way to meet people in your major and make connections with the people presenting. And even if the speaker or conference doesn’t relate to your major, it is always interesting to learn something new. Take the opportunity to attend these free (or low cost) events and experience something new!
8. Go to all the college festivals
A lot of the events at school may seem cheesy or silly, but seriously, go to them!!! Not only do colleges give away free stuff at these kinds of things, but they make for some great memories. It’s always nice to have a break from homework and studying and have some laughs.
9. Step out of your comfort zone
This is probably the most important thing I can tell you. Step out of your major and join a new club for fun! I joined Her Campus as an Early Childhood Education major and found some amazing friends and a love for writing! Join a random sports team like fencing or a social justice club to make a difference in your community. Either way, there is no harm in doing something new!
10. Go to plays or musicals on campus
I have been introduced to so many new shows through my school! The students are super talented and have put so much work into producing a show, so show some school spirit and go! I’ve laughed, cried, and made great memories watching shows on campus. For the most part, you can get discounted tickets with your student ID. So why not spend the night getting lost in a story being acted out right in front of you by people that go to your school?
Whether you are currently in college or getting ready to start your college adventure in the fall, I hope these little pieces of advice help! Now go and make some great memories! :)
HCXO,
Hannah N