Before starting college, it seems like everyone has something to say or an opinion about what you should or shouldn’t do. This can leave nervous college freshmen feeling worse about this huge life transition. Personally, it seemed that all the advice I was given was either useless or just completely unrealistic, which left me feeling even more anxious when I actually had no idea what to do once arriving at college.
Now, after finishing my first semester at the University of Michigan and experiencing many highs and lows, I think I can spread real and honest advice regarding this essential, yet daunting, time of change.
To begin…
- Be a social butterfly…even if you’re not
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Now you’re probably like Bridget, I am not social at all. How am I supposed to do this? Let me tell you, I am most definitely not the most social person, but you need to throw that anxiety and fear away (especially during your first couple weeks of college). Everyone around you is in the same boat of nervousness, loneliness, and unfamiliarity, so take this opportunity to be kind and stand out. Whether it’s simply telling someone you like their outfit to get a convo going or the bold action of knocking on the doors of rooms in your hall (the scariest of them all in my opinion).
You have no idea where just one random small interaction could take you. So be bold. Knock on that door, break that awkward silence in the elevator, and put yourself out there. You have no idea who or what could be waiting for you.
- EMbrace your mess ups
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One thing incoming freshmen aren’t often warned about is all the failures and painfully awkward moments that are about to come your way. Whether it’s realizing you took the wrong U of M bus, walked into the wrong massive lecture hall, or dropped your plate of food in the middle of the dining hall (we’ve all been there). All of these are just a few examples of the many challenges you’ll face when first starting college. They might seem like a big deal at the time, but these little mess ups teach you how to laugh at yourself and move on. To know that it’s ok to make a little mistake here and there and remember someone else has definitely also made that same mistake, too. So embrace these “bad” moments and look back at them with a smile as you realize how far you’ve come.
- Focus on your own path, not the ones of the people around you
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Being a student at a prestigious university like the University of Michigan can be extremely overwhelming and often leads to a feeling of imposter syndrome. You’ll be constantly hearing about all the challenging classes, prestigious clubs, summer internships, and insane activities your peers are a part of. This will make you ask yourself questions like: Am I behind? Am I good enough to be here?
The answer to those questions are: NO, breathe, you are not behind and YES absolutely you are good enough to be here.
Remember, you were accepted into this school for a reason. You are brilliant and deserve everything that has come your way. So take a deep breath and focus on yourself. It’s ok to not constantly be working and stressing yourself out, you made it here and are more than capable to succeed. Everyone’s path to success looks different, so keep YOURS in your vision, not anyone else’s.
- GO TO EVERYTHING!!
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During your first semester here you will be bombarded with an insane amount of activities. Now obviously it would be nearly impossible to go to all of them, but please try to go to as many as you can. Getting involved is one of the most important steps in becoming an all around successful student. It allows you to meet new people, learn new things, and potentially find a new hobby. Also, the University of Michigan has amazing school spirit, so for sure check out school activities like football games, student-run plays, volleyball games, and so much more!
For example, my friends and I decided we were bored and needed to get involved. One day we decided to sign up for intramural kickball. And no, we don’t know how to play kickball. This silly idea ended up being such a fun experience where so many memories were made. Whether it was losing every game, going against 30 year-old grad students, or absolutely destroying our sneakers from the clay field; these are moments we still talk about today.
So put yourself out there and try something new, you have no idea what direction it could lead you in.
- know your limits
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Now college will bring on many fun moments and an excitement like no other. Your first couple weeks are going to be GO, GO, GO! This party, this activity, that place, that person, blah blah blah. The list goes on and don’t get me wrong, this time is so much fun and crucial for building relationships that will last a lifetime. But, it’s ok to sometimes feel the need to take a step back and relax. The constant need to be out and about is already so draining, but add the fact that you are going through a major life change all while balancing making friends, classes, and a completely new atmosphere. So just know your life isn’t going to end if you miss that party or don’t go to that one thing. It’s necessary to take time for yourself and put your needs first, especially during a time of change.
I hope at least one of you was able to take one of these pieces of advice with you and I hope you can apply it to your own life! Regardless of if you’re a freshman or not, this advice can still be useful!
Thanks and stay safe and remember to have fun!