Tips to Survive & Thrive Your First Year of College
What was the biggest surprise as a college freshman?
The realization that I wasn’t accountable to anybody and didn't have boundaries was shocking initially.
Block-schedules and open days take some getting used to.
Freedom felt equal parts good and scary at first.
It’s weird when no one is waking you up to get to class. Easy to NOT get up and go, but GO!
How much harder the course work is compared to high school. Need to step it up in college so go in knowing that.
What do you wish someone had told you in advance?
College is a chance to reinvent yourself. START FRESH!
Lose the cliques of the high school mindset.
The first 3 months are the hardest but know that it DOES get better!
Don’t be discouraged if you’re placed with a roommate who you wouldn’t have chosen. You don’t have to be best friends - you just have to sleep in the same room, so agree to get along.
Semesters go FAST and you only have 8 of them.
There is something for everyone at college.
Attend the club fairs and find your people.
What advice do you have for an incoming freshman?
Don't overload the 1st semester. Burnout can lead to anxiety.
Develop time management skills.
Meet regularly with your counselor to be sure you're staying on track and not wasting your units.
Get a job or volunteer on campus.
Go to the gym. It'll help you meet people, clear your mind and motivate you to make healthy choices.
Check in with your family! A quick text or call between classes keeps that connection.
You'll get out of college what you put in, so MAKE IT COUNT!
Teen Esteem+ wishes you the very best as you embark on your college journey!