5 Things I Learned in My Freshman Year at TCNJ

1. No one actually has it all figured out. 

Although it may seem like everyone knows what they are doing, once you talk to other students, you will soon realize that they actually don’t. Most people are just trying their best and figuring things out along the way. The same goes for you! It’s okay to not know exactly what you want to do with your life, degree, or profession. Take some time to really think about what makes you passionate and happy, and go with the flow from there.

2. Time management is key!

Knowing how to manage your time properly will make or break your first year. It’s not about being busy all the time, but rather it is about being intentional and focused with your work. My suggestions are to use the Pomodoro method (especially if you have a short attention span), break your work up into smaller chunks (have a test next week? Do a little bit of studying everyday instead of cramming the night before!), and use a planner or a to-do list to keep yourself organized. Google Calendar and Notion will be your best friends for tracking assignments, keeping a daily to-do list, and planning your class schedule and meetings.

3. Growth is good.

It is completely okay to outgrow routines and even people. What worked in high school may (and probably won’t) work in college, and that is not a bad thing at all! Although growth can feel uncomfortable sometimes, it is necessary in order to become the best version of yourself. During your first year—especially after doing all those college applications in senior year—just breathe and make things easier for yourself. Not only will you have to learn how to manage your time and workflow better, but you will also have to navigate being in a new school, making new friends, and also doing your own laundry and dealing with a roommate (unless you’re a commuter like me, of course!) among many other everyday activities.

4. You don’t have to say yes to everything!

You don’t have to sign up for ten different clubs. You don’t have to go to every school event (especially if you have studying to do). You don’t have to apply to every internship or on-campus job. Opportunities are everywhere, but burnout is extremely real. It’s really important that you protect your time and energy so that you can perform your best academically and mentally. Keeping your mental health in check is just as important as getting involved.

5. Ask for help!

If you’re struggling with a certain class, it is vital that you reach out for help sooner rather than later (ASAP, if you ask me!). Go to office hours. Talk to your professors and course assistants. Visit the tutoring center or schedule a tutoring appointment online. Go to peer study sessions if your course assistant has them. Ask your friends to study together. People want and can help you! You do not have to struggle in silence or sit there in complete frustration when you have no clue what is going on. There are tons and tons of helpful resources at TCNJ that are readily available (and most of the time, free!) to all students, no matter what major. 

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