Freshman Year of College: Survival 101

By: Julie Ruocco

Entering your first year of college can be an overwhelming mix of emotions. Everything as you knew has changed which can be very exciting but also extremely frightening. You are forced to make new friends all over again and find your niche among a crowd of thousands. On top of that, you have new, more challenging courses that will test you. All of these situations shape your college experience and make it that more memorable. In order to make the transition a bit simpler, here are some tips to surviving your freshman year of college:

1.    Do NOT room with your friend.

Although your probably asking, “Why not?!” just trust me on this one. Even though you may think your relationship with your friend is unbreakable, living with someone changes your perspective entirely. Soon enough you may be bickering about cleaning up their clothes off the floor rather than deciding which party to go to. Besides the threat of ruining your friendship, rooming with someone you don’t know could present the opportunity of gaining more friends and finding you’re niche rather than being dependent on one person.

2.     Introduce yourself!

In high school, teachers make it a point to remember their students and help them succeed as much as they can. In college, this can be quite the opposite. Make it a point to introduce yourself to your professors by attending their open office hours. It doesn’t have to be long—just pop by for a minute or two and let them put a name to a face. They have a lot of students that never take advantage of this but by them knowing you, they will be more open to helping you out with an extension, absence, or helping with a term paper.

3.    Get involved!

This doesn’t mean you have to be part of ASB like in high school but rather that you can get involved in what YOU like to do. There are tons of organizations, clubs and Greek houses to check out that will not only get you connected but also may present professional experience employers will value come graduation. The great thing about college is that no one is as judgmental as high school, so be yourself and do things that interest you.

4.    Search for a job!

While living off your parents may seem like the ultimate freebie, getting your own job will be more freeing than ever. Having that extra cash or for some, helping your own way through college, is vital in gaining a sense of independence. Being able to pay for your individual needs/wants makes you feel accomplished and lets you dictate what you spend your own money on.  The biggest perk—it prepares you to budget and handle money independently from your parents, something needed after you walk that stage at graduation in a few short years.

So, now you are equipped with some tips to make that transition go a bit more smoothly. Take these into consideration and more than anything, enjoy your college experience—it goes fast!