Now that I have my first semester of college under my belt, here’s a few things I learned. Future freshmen: take note.
1. Waiting in line sucks.
I feel like in a given week, I wait in line for food or some other on-campus service longer than I sit in class. This is especially true during the different meal rushes throughout the day. The only places that are safe from excessive lines are the dining halls, but even then, who wants to eat there all the time? Thankfully, UNC Wilmington makes perfect use of Tapingo for its on campus restaurants. I usually order my food that way when I have zero patience for crowded, noisy lines. I highly recommend it, fam.
Photo courtesy of The Cord.
2. Food dollars vanish quickly.
Last semester, I was down to my last few food dollars by the time exams rolled around. I blame my new iced-coffee habit. (I’m looking at you, Port City Java.) In short, I learned I need to get a grip on how much food dollars I spend per week.
Photo courtesy of Healthy Advice Pro.
3. Textbooks…
Okay, honestly, what the heck? Textbooks are so expensive. Not to mention, I messed up big time trying to order them before classes started last semester. I wanted to be prepared and ready to roll, but I learned it’s better to wait until after the first day. You might not think you need that $180 access code at first glance, but dang it, YOU DO.
Photo courtesy of Union College.
4. Nobody really cares if you’re a freshman.
Mostly because nobody knows, unless you make it hella obvious by wearing your orientation day lanyard around your neck every day. I would advise keeping it cool and acting natural at all times.
Photo courtesy of Pomona College.
5. Getting up early isn’t that bad, and neither is having a roommate.
Waking up early gives you time to get dressed, get ready, and eat a nice, relaxed breakfast before class. Not to mention, there’s less morning dread about actually going to class because they don’t take up as much of your day as they did in high school. BOOM. Also, sharing a room with someone seems intimidating (and it’s weird at first), but over time, the space becomes more comfortable. By second semester, your roommate is more than just a roommate. They’re a close friend you can count on and confide it.
Photo courtesy of Wellesley College.
6. Group exercise classes are amazing.
If your college/university offers group exercise classes like mine does, please take advantage of them ESPECIALLY if you can get friends to go with you. It takes off some of the pressure/intimidation of working out alone when you’re surrounded by friendly (and usually equally sweaty) faces. Plus, the classes don’t have to be intense or boring. Maybe there’s a group dance class you can drop in on. (P.S. Don’t worry about looking stupid if you do a dance class, everyone does!)
Photo courtesy of Coast Fitness.