Somehow, my first year has come and gone. It felt like just a day ago that I was choosing to attend MSU, graduating from high school, and moving into my dorm. All of a sudden, the year has ended, I’m moving out, and taking all the lessons, growth, and memories with me. While being away from home, I’ve learned to adapt to a whole new place, attend school, and get involved. Just writing it out can be overwhelming, and it’s even harder to manage when you’re in the midst of it. Here are some things I learned and had to face to make sure you can have an easier time preparing yourself.
College is fantastic, and being out of state has also been a tremendous experience for me. I had to start all over when I came to MSU, including finding new people to become friends with. I honestly just wanted people to do things with and attend events, but that wasn’t the case at first.
During this time, not everyone will be your best friend. Someone who may have been a comfort person at first to do some things with, may not be a best friend and may drift even over a couple months or years, while you discover who your new best friends are. While meeting hundreds of people, it is important to remember that you will find your people, so try not to force anything.
Additionally, one thing that helped me was getting involved. I know it sounds cliché, but every group you’re a part of helps create a new set of friends. I joined a sorority and several clubs, made new friends, befriended classmates, and then secured a job all to make new acquaintances. So, get out there and be open to new things, people, and opportunities.
You learn a lot when you move into a small room and share it with a random roommate. It’s a bit scary at first, but in most cases, it’s not the end of the world. My roommate and I were randomized, and while we aren’t best friends or share many interests, we got along, maintained our room, and cohabited very well. I am grateful to my roommate for being friendly, kind, caring, and good to live with.
It is important to remember that there are going to be things that you don’t love and may develop a pet peeve for, but that’s common in every relationship, especially when you’re living with someone in such a small space. At MSU, I lived in Phillips Hall, which is extra small. Be open-minded, and make sure to communicate if things or aspects of their lifestyle bother you.
Additionally, be sure to maintain good house manners and remember that you’re living in a shared space. You can obviously be messy sometimes, just clean up your messes. Do your chores and make sure to be aware of both your sleep and work schedules. It’s essential to be mindful and respectful of your roommate’s space. Be a good human, advocate for yourself, and be grateful for a roommate you’re able to live with. If you become best friends with your roommate, that’s great, but it’s also great to just be friends and coexist.
School and classes are much different in college. There is a lot more flexibility, which can be lovely, but it’s essential to stay motivated and on top of things. Ask questions, make friends in class, and try not to procrastinate (easier said than done). Not every class will be great, and not every professor will be good, so while you’re working hard, make sure to allow yourself breaks. You’ve got this!
It can be tough to do everything at once. Coming to a new place, making friends, getting along with your roommate, working, going to school, etc. It is essential though to give yourself time for breaks, work hard, and be kind to yourself. Otherwise, you may become burned out. Remember, it’s okay to prioritize your mental health. Find activities that help you relax, and don’t be afraid to seek help if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
No matter what, you will find your groove, your people, your place, your activities, lots of love, and many memories. I am grateful for everything I have learned, for this outstanding college, and for my amazing friends. Thank you, freshman year! You will be missed!