How to Survive Your Freshman Year of College
Hello everyone! Today we will be discussing my freshman year tips for going back to school!
This advice applies not only to freshmen but to all college students.
Going back to school can be challenging, as you make new friends, live on your own, and juggle more responsibilities such as managing your social and academic life.
As a freshman, college felt very overwhelming!
However, now that I am approaching my junior year, I have grown and learned valuable life lessons about friendships, relationships, independence, and discovering what matters the most in my life!
1. Reflect and Be Mindful
Something that has helped me in challenging times while adjusting is to journal and pray!
Dedicating time to reflect on your emotions and thoughts is crucial.
Pouring everything on paper and releasing all of your stress and anxiety is a game changer.
Prioritizing your inner dialogue is crucial. You are the one in control of your life!
Instead of having the mindset that everything is happening to you, believe that everything is happening for you.
Find time every day to do something positive for your body, mind, and soul!
2. Love and Let Go
One of the biggest lessons I have learned is independence and self reliance.
A lesson we all have to face multiple times throughout our life is that people will enter and exist.
No matter how often we try to prevent it, accepting that people come and go is an inevitable part of growth.
Learning to be your own best friend and keeping your circle small will make life enjoyable.
Whether that circle includes your family and one best friend, those genuine connections are far more valuable than having 10 friends who are just branches in your life.
Those who serve as roots, and are willing to build a strong foundation with you, are worth everything. So keep them around forever!
3. Become Your Own Best Friend
Loving yourself first and embracing all aspects of you is the first step. Accept, forgive, and grow.
Cherish your strengths and flaws. Learning to love them equally will help build confidence.
I’ve learned to be selective with who I let into my circle. Finding those who are in alignment with you to some capacity can shape your direction and focus in life.
Nurturing a connection where both people uplift each other is the best type of friendship!
In both high school and college, I’ve experienced lukewarm friendships.
My biggest takeaway is that I’d rather focus on myself than deal with others who are two-sided.
Remember. Your top priority is to take care of your mental and emotional state first.
4. Take Risks. Why Not?
The real test is taking risks and joining clubs, activities, sports, etc. all on your own.
I took a risk and joined a sport I’ve never done before, rowing. Once you take that initial step, it gets easier to put yourself in uncomfortable situations.
You also prove to yourself that you can be your own support system instead of relying on others!
Explore different activities on campus. My approach is to try as much as you want, and if something doesn’t fit, move onto the next.
Every experience, whether good or bad, is valuable.
So, put yourself out there! Don’t worry about what others say or think. They aren’t you, and will never be you!
5. Be Consistent
Developing a consistent schedule everyday will make college life so much easier.
College can be a shock because now you have to create your own schedule of how many classes you are going to take, what clubs or activities you want to get involved in, etc.
Freshman year, I packed in my classes from Monday through Thursday so fortunately I had Fridays off.
This was a plus as I was able to get into the rhythm of my routine.
I had the advantage of one whole day to catch up on work, organize and do laundry so I am ahead for the following week, and even travel to go visit my hometown friends!
Organizing your schedule with intention so you have the flexibility to get work done, participate in extracurriculars, and have a social life is key!
I hope this advice inspires you to take positive actions towards having the best academic year possible! Good luck, you got this!!
For more lifestyle content, check out my Pinterest https://pin.it/2EeXviXB8. With peace, love, and joy.
Love,
Lauren Marie