1st Year of College Advice

So before we start, let's just get this clear...all the rumors are true. College is the best time of your life, it is also the worst time of your life, you will meet really cool people you'll never see again, you'll meet really cool people and hang out with them everyday, it is possible to fail your first class or even a few, you will have professors who have no clue who you are, and you are one in thousands...now, I don't say this to say aww you're so special but I say this to say you are just a number. While college is all these different things, it is a great experience and is unique to everyone. And while you will have some bad days or even weeks, as long as the good days outweigh the bad, you're doing alright. Many of us have heard college advice before and it can tend to become repetitive after a point but these are a few things that I learned my first year and definitely wish I did more of and plan to do for future semesters.

Talk to your professors on a regular as well as your advisors. I definitely communicated with my advisors often but not my professors as much as I should have. These are the people who will assist you both with your educational life and potentially your personal life. They have the power to turn you onto many opportunities. Professors can help you in a struggling class and ultimately see that you're trying and taking initiative to understand the material, which will help you in the long run. Advisors help you on a more broad academic level as far as classes in general and advice or other helpful resources around campus. While these people are great resources, sometimes just stop by to say hi and check on them. Make sure they know your name!

Take classes with people you know. This will make it easier to study and even learn the material, who knows, you all might be able to assist each other with simple answers that are asked in class for a grade. If you can't make it to class one day, they can fill you in on what you missed....these relationships will be more beneficial then you think. Take full advantage of them. 

There will always be something popping up but at least try to create and follow a regular schedule for yourself. Include free time just in case something does pop up it will not throw you off completely. Getting enough rest at night can help you to be more energized in the morning and not be so sleepy to where you need to take a nap in the middle of the day. Ultimately it will help you seize the day. Create a time where you go to tutoring every other day for a problem class, even if you understand the current material. Also workout on a regular, it will help self-esteem and keeping your body on track because you will possibly gain weight due to your changing diet. Cut out the time in your schedule where you have club meetings every week or every other week. (Join at least 3 clubs. One for professional/major, one for your liking, and one for diversity) Now enough about academics, we're going to talk about what most people want to know...parties/social life.

When going out, always go out with a trustworthy group of friends. Lookout for your friends and make sure they look out for you. Make plans of how you will get there and how you will get back prior to going out. You don't want to be those girls at the party who are stranded. Also, leave with who you came with. 
Relationships your first year are definitely doable, however, I do recommend having the ability to experience college to the fullest. Dating definitely shows you what is out there (which is nothing special haha) but it also shows you what you like and don't like and teaches you patience. Being single in college also allows you to become emotionally independent. You are young, enjoy these years! 

While being in college you learn to live on your own in aspect while still sharing your space with someone. Personally, I prefer to room with someone I know. Regardless of who you room with, set rules an adhere to these rules. Living with someone will teach you how to grow up and speak up for yourself.
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College itself teaches you how to grow up and speak of for yourself. You are changing and getting to know yourself so be patient. It is okay to cry and ask for help because you can't do it all on your own. It is also okay to change your interest because after all you're paying to be there. It is okay to have more than one interest too. Enjoy college to it's fullest, try new things, change things you don't like whether it's in regards to yourself or your community. Though you are one in thousands, your voice matters so let it be heard. And lastly, regardless if your plans may change, never change your goal. You will get there! You can do it! Have a great first year in college! And if you have anymore questions feel free to reach out to me.