25 lessons I’ve learned while being in college
By Katie Stagman, Staff Writer//
Take it from me, college flies by. Whether you’re a freshman or a senior, here are some valuable lessons to keep in mind.
1. You will meet some of your best friends in the most random ways, and they will be the people who stick by your side in good times and in bad times.
2. You may distance yourself from friends at home, but that’s OK. They’re getting their college experience too and your paths will cross again.
3. Eating healthy is necessary in college, because one week of binge eating pizza at 3 a.m. can be detrimental.
4. Calling your parents is important. They worry about you all the time because it’s in their handbook.
5. Being homesick on occasion is normal, but not wanting to be at college at all is a completely different story. Talk to someone if you’re feeling this way.
6. Being away at college makes you appreciate your parents and siblings even more.
7. Nap time is the best time of the day. Take advantage of those 20-30 minutes.
8. In order to get good grades, you need to work hard, and hard means harder than you did in high school.
9. Do not cram. You learn information best by studying over a few days rather than a few hours.
10. If you’re over 21, know that mixing alcohol is NEVER a good idea.
11. Do not plan four incredibly hard classes in one semester. I thought I could do it, and my GPA proved otherwise.
12. Sometimes you won’t get along with your roommates and you may need to move out for your own reasons. Just don’t burn bridges if you do; you never know when your paths may cross again.
13. Make connections with professors, they could be your key to a job in the future.
14. Get involved on campus. Find something to do that has absolutely nothing to do with your major, but which you are extremely passionate about.
15. Ask for help when you need it. Your grade is not only about how well you perform on the tests but it reflects the effort put in to every aspect of the class.
16. To-do lists are not just for busy moms. There is nothing more satisfying than crossing out tasks on your list. It makes your workload seem more bearable.
17. Ladies, don’t try to settle down with a guy right away. College is where you find your bridesmaids, not your husband.
18. Coffee is a necessity.
19. Learn how to manage money. College is a time when you still have some dependence on your parents, so take this time to learn how to budget before your life depends on it.
20. Be smart and safe when it comes to dating.
21. Lift your head up from your phone once in a while and be connected with the friends around you. No one is more important than the people taking time out of their day to have lunch with you.
22. Keep your room somewhat clean. Clutter happens but your floor shouldn’t be covered in 3 feet of clothing.
23. Along with that, do your laundry. Nothing is worse than not having clean underwear.
24. If you aren’t sure what to wear, it is better to be over-dressed rather than under-dressed.
25. Remember you are in college for an education, but having fun is part of it. Those nights out with friends are the memories you will cherish for a lifetime.