As I enter the final months of my undergraduate career, this is a time for major reflection on the past four years. College has been such a unique experience and I wish I could do it all over again. One thing is for certain, four years goes by fast and I can’t believe I’m at this point in my life already. Looking back on my time at college, I’ve got some advice for anyone about to enter their freshman year. First thing’s first, it’s important to talk to everyone you meet during orientation. I don’t care how awkward or uncomfortable it is to ask ice breaker questions, the people you meet during orientation are your first friends at college! Maybe it’s because I attended a small school, but I remember who was in my orientation group and actively talk to some of those people still.
During my time at college I’ve learned that sometimes you have to do things alone, and that’s okay. It’s completely normal to go to the dining hall alone or grab a coffee by yourself. As a freshman it might seem like an uncomfortable thing to do by yourself, but eating alone is one of the independent tasks college helped me with. During high school it’s normal to sit with five other people during lunch, but in college it’s perfectly normal to grab a bagel at 9pm by yourself. The last major piece of advice I wish I had was that there is absolutely nothing to be afraid or nervous about. Yes, giving a timed ten minute presentation is nerve wracking, but remember that one time I overslept for my final presentation sophomore year and still got an A? I feel like half of the things I have done during my time at school will either become hilarious stories I tell my kids, or I’ll forget about it.
College is about new experiences with new people, and it’s impossible to create memories from inside your dorm room. Get out there and go to the freshman mixers, or the sports party that you thought was for everyone but turns out it’s just for athletes. Awkward things will happen in college, but I don’t know anyone who hasn’t done something stupid along the way. You know that episode of Spongebob where the city is burning? That’s what college feels like half the time, but it will all be worth the memories. So here’s to paying off my student loans six months post-graduation!
