What I Wish Someone Told Me Before Freshman Year
I know everyone says “college is so different from high school” but like… no one actually tells you HOW it’s different 😭 So here’s what I wish someone had told me before I started my freshman year:
📌 You’re not gonna have it all figured out. Literally no one knows what they’re doing, even if they LOOK like they do. I remember feeling like everyone else had their major, their clubs, their life planned out, and I was just trying to figure out where my next class was. That’s NORMAL. You’re learning everything for the first time and that takes time!!
📌 Go to office hours even if you don’t have a question. Professors actually want to help you (most of them anyway lol). Just showing up and chatting about the class or asking for advice can go a long way. This is how you build relationships and get help when you need it later.
📌 You don’t need to do everything. It’s so tempting to join every club or go to every event. But it’s okay to say no and protect your time. Burnout is real! You’ll enjoy college more when you create space for rest and routines that feel good.
📌 You will change and so will your goals. The person I was when I started freshman year is so different from who I am now. I’ve changed my schedule, my priorities, my study habits, and even how I view school in general. That’s the whole point of growing. If you’re just starting college or about to start, take a deep breath. You don’t need to do it all perfectly, just take it one step at a time and stay open to learning.
You’ve got this 🫶 Let me know in the comments what you wish someone told you before your first year!
Hey everyone! Entering college, especially freshman year, can feel like you're suddenly thrown into a whole new game without a rulebook. We all hear 'college is different,' but nobody really gives you the cheat codes, right? Building on what I shared earlier, here are some more practical tips to help you ace your first year and make it truly your own. First off, let's talk about majors and academic pressure. It’s totally normal to feel like you need to have your entire future mapped out, especially when you see others declaring demanding fields like STEM majors right away. But honestly, it’s okay if you're still exploring! Most people change their major at least once. Use your general education requirements to explore different subjects that pique your interest. Talk to professors (yes, go to those office hours!), upperclassmen, and career counselors. They can offer insights you won't find in a course catalog. The beauty of college is the chance to discover what truly excites you, not just to follow a pre-set path. Balancing academics with a social life is another huge part of the freshman year game. I remember seeing that OCR about not being able to go to a football game because of being a busy STEM major – and that's a real struggle! It's easy to get caught up in the grind, especially when your classes are tough. But college isn't just about textbooks; it's about growth, new experiences, and building connections. While you don't need to say yes to everything, make an intentional effort to find your balance. Join a club related to your hobbies, attend a campus event once in a while, or try out for an intramural sport. These activities are where you'll often find your community and make lifelong friends. It’s not about attending every single football game, but about finding moments to step away from your studies and enjoy the unique campus life. On a more personal note, dealing with homesickness and adjusting to independence can be tough. It's a completely normal feeling, and almost everyone goes through it. Don't be afraid to reach out to family or friends from home, but also push yourself to make new connections on campus. Find comfort in your new environment – decorate your dorm, find a favorite coffee shop, or discover a quiet spot to read. Learning basic budgeting is also a game-changer. Understanding your student loans, expenses, and how to manage your money will save you a lot of stress down the line. Most universities offer financial literacy workshops, so take advantage of them! Finally, remember to prioritize your well-being. College life can be demanding, and burnout is a real threat. Locate your campus health center and counseling services early on, even if you don't think you'll need them. Knowing where to go for support is half the battle. Get enough sleep, eat regular meals, and find simple ways to de-stress, whether it’s a quick walk, listening to music, or just calling a friend. This freshman year is a marathon, not a sprint. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow. You've got this!
